Chapter 7: Support Group of Two

I walked over to the Planet at lunch on Thursday to confirm the following night with Marina. I hadnt seen her since Monday night and I wanted to make sure we were still on.

The place was packed, but as soon as Marina caught my eye, she smiled and turned to speak to the other woman behind the counter before coming around to meet me.

Im so glad to see you. She smiled as she placed her hand in the small of my back and ushered me to her office.

With the door closed, she motioned me to the sofa as she sat on the edge of her desk.

I waved off the sofa, saying, No, this wont take long. I just wanted to confirm for tomorrow night.

Of course. I wouldnt dream of missing our first support group meeting. She said with a smirk.

I couldnt prevent the large goofy smile from spreading across my face. Well, since this is our first workaholics meeting, I was thinking that it should consist of doing something that can in no way be construed as work; something others would even define as fun. Marina was looking at me, eyes slightly narrowed and lips pursed as if not exactly sure where I was going with this, but she didnt say anything, so I added. Fun, you are familiar with it?

Now a smirk from Marina, No, I dont believe I am, please explain it for me.

Heaving a heavy sigh and rolling my eyes in teasing mockery of Marinas feigned ignorance, I replied, Okay, because I know English is not your first language, Ill try and explain. Fun..HmFun, in this context, would be an activity that provides enjoyment or amusement; something that brings happiness. Many people, in fact would say it is the antonym of work. Thus, rather appropriate, I thought, for our little support group.

Marina was wearing a broad smile when she said, I think Ive heard of it, but never fully understood the concept.

I reached out and gently patted her shoulder as I spoke, Something told me that this might be a totally foreign concept for you. Not to worry, I have it all under control. You just be ready at 6 pm.

Marina straightened up and gave a half salute saying 6 pm. Ill be ready.

I just shook my head and turned to leave. I had my hand on the door ***** when I stopped and looked back to Marina. Ill pick you up here?

Marina nodded her head, but didnt say a word and I walked out of the office. As I rounded the corner, I ran into Dana—literally.

Well, hello. She said as we both laughed at the Laurel and Hardy style collision.

How you doing, Dana? I asked.

Good. Are you coming or going? We have a table in the back. She smiled warmly. Join us.

I looked at my watch and decided I had time to at least say hello. I followed her to the back and waved as I saw Tina, Alice, and Robin.

How you guys doing? I asked as Dana took her seat and Robin reached to pull up another chair. No, thanks, I cant stay long. I have to get back to work. I just wanted to say hello.

Oh, come on, Alice urged. Youve got time, just for 5 minutes.

I glanced back at my watch and shrugged Okay, but just 5 minutes.

Robin grabbed the chair swung it up next to their table.

Alice, I didnt get a chance to talk to you before I left Milk the other night, but the band was great! I really had a good time. I said, then added I had no idea you played.

Yeah, I hadnt touched my guitar in 10 years, and didnt realize I missed it untill I did that article. Alice said, something almost sad in her voice.

Dana threw her arm around Alices shoulder as she spoke, She was so sweet. I came into the house one night and called for her; she didnt answer. The house was dark and I figured she was still at work or something and headed up to change clothes. As I entered the bedroom. Dana paused and leaned into kiss Alice on the cheek before continuing, The bedroom was lit up with candles and there sat Alice on the edge of the bed. She began to play her guitar; she serenaded me. Dana looked down at the table suddenly shy. When she looked up you could see tears threatening to fall. In a much smaller voice, she added, It was the most romantic moment of my life.

Alice pulled her to her and kissed her. Really kissed her.

Get a room. Robin sneered. But it fell on deaf ears as they were lost in each other now.

So, Freddie, what are you doing on Sunday? Tina asked. Bette and I are having a little brunch. Around 11, wed like it if you came.

Oh. Im sorry, Tina. I grimaced. Im busy on Sunday. I have to work, but thanks for the invite. I looked down at my watch and stood to go. See you guys, I gotta head out.

Well, if your plans change, drop by. Tina encouraged.

I told her I would and said goodbye.

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I showed up at the Planet a little early on Friday night and took a seat outside; I didnt want to look like a total dork, showing up early; plus I was hoping to be able to calm down a bit before I saw Marina. I was unexpectedly nervous. Well, I guess I shouldnt have been surprised that I was nervous given that Id changed clothes 4 times before finally deciding on a pair of khakis, a silk Hawaiian print blouse and my Doc Martins. It was casual, but not too casual. Now, as I sat outside the Planet, my heart was beating wildly and my palms were sweaty as I scanned the Planet looking for Marina. It was like Id never been on a date. And this wasnt even a datewas it? It wasnt. It wasnt a date. We were just hanging out. No big deal, I told myself; theres nothing to be nervous about. Its not a date.

I was so intently trying to calm myself, with my eyes closed repeating over and over that this wasnt a date, that I didnt notice Marina standing next to me until she touched my shoulder. I startled at the touch and nearly fell out of my chair. Smooth, I thought to myself, real smooth. I regained my balance and looked up at Marina. Thats twice youve scared the bejeebies out of me. How do you do that? Just appear out of no where? Im gonna have to get you a cow-bell or something. I said laughing as I stood up.

Marinas look was one of confusion. Never mind I said, waving it off. Its country girl humor. So, are you ready to go?

She cocked her head to the side slightly and looked at me for a moment. She still looked somewhat perplexed, when she replied Yes, just give me a minute.

I watched Marina as she walked back to speak to the woman behind the counter and then head towards her office. When she emerged from her office a few minutes later, I almost didnt recognize her. She had changed clothes and now had on jeans, a loose fitting sheer blouse and sandals; her hair was pulled back off her face. It was a very simple look, but she was beautiful. That woman could make a gunny sack look *****, I thought.

I tried to wipe the gawking expression off my face as she approached. Marina was smiling and obviously enjoying the look on my face when she glanced down at her clothing and said, I did a little research on this concept of fun you told me about. I didnt want to look like a novice.

You look like a pro. I laughed. We should both blend right into the crowds like we were regulars at this. I stood up and we both walked out onto the sidewalk and towards where Id parked.

As we approached my motorcycle, it occurred to me that the bike might be a bit much for Marina. I gestured towards the Harley and said Thats me. Um, have you ever ridden a motorcycle? I glance at Marina but couldnt read the look on her face, so I continued, We dont have to take it, as long as you dont mind driving tonight.

Without replying, Marina stepped up to the bike, took the helmet and slipped it on. I was both surprised and impressed. I grabbed my helmet and we both climbed on. As we pulled away from the curb, Marina wrapped her arms lightly around my waist. I smiled to myself thinking: this is one for the I-should-have-gotten-a-motorcycle-a-long-time-ago column as I enjoyed the feel of her body pressed to my back.

We pulled into the already crowded parking lot and parked in the area designated for Motorcycles. Marina slid off the back and pulled off the helmet, shaking her hair as she did; the smile she wore helped me to relax a bit. This was going to be a good night.

I nodded my head toward the Staples Center and said Come on, its the last night of the playoffs. Lets go see if the Sparks can pull of the championship game.

It was very crowded but we eventually found our way to our seats. To my utter surprise, they were great seats. Id only called to purchase them a few days ago and felt certain wed be in the nose bleed section, but instead we were only 3 rows off the court behind the basket.

As we settle into our seats, I asked Marina Have you ever been to a game?

Marina looked around at the crowd filling the arena and then looked to me. No. Ive heard people talking about the Sparks in the Planet, but Ive never really been a sports fan.

Neither was I, but the WNBA pulled me in about 5 years ago. Ive never lived anywhere that had a team, and Ive only been to a couple of games; but I watch as many as I can on TV. Ive wanted to come see the Sparks since I arrived in LA, but never had the chance. I paused and looked around at the crowd and at the women warming up on the court before continuing, Tonight is the final game of the season. This will determine the league championship. It should be a really good game.

Marina was intently studying the players on the court and the handout wed gotten with each teams roster. Which team do you like? she asked.

My favorite team is long out of the playing this season. I grumbled. They had a rough year with injuries. But, this is LA, so I suppose we should be rooting for the Sparks.

Marina looked out at the crowd, then at the players on the court, before looking at me and announcing, I will cheer for the Mystics.

The surprise caused me to pop my head back a bit and look carefully at Marina. Then I glanced around at the sea of purple and gold surrounding us on all sides. I looked back at Marina and started to say something, but she beat me to it saying I have a soft spot for the low-dog.

I laughed out loud. Low-dog?

Yes, there will be enough people cheering for the Sparks tonight. I will cheer for the Mystics. Marina paused, looking out at the women, and winked as she added, Besides, did you see number 21? Marina let out a low growl as she raised her eyebrows. We both laughed.

Alright then, tonight we cheer for the Mystics. Theyre gonna need all the help they can get. Just two seasons ago, they were the worst team in the league.

At that, I got up, telling Marina Id be back in a minute. When I returned I had popcorn and a couple of large beers. Marina laughed as I handed her one of the beers. What is all this? she asked.

Mandatory junk food. I said with a grin. You cant have fun without it. Its some strange American thing about junk food and fun. They are linked somehow such that it is impossible to have one without the other. I shrugged and put on my best look of bewilderment.

I see. Marina said nodding. Im learning so much tonight. She joked as she took the popcorn from me and popped a handful into her mouth.

During the first half, Marina watched quietly, asking me questions about this play and that call. I tried to explain as much as I could, but I began to worry that she was not really enjoying this. At half time, I asked her if she wanted to go. Marina replied with a grin, No, I want to see the Mystics win the game.

You do like the low-dog dont you? I said shaking my head. They are down by 18 points. Marina, Im pretty sure the Mystics wont be winning the title this year.

Marina looked at me for a long moment before replying Underdog. She rolled her eyes as she continued, Underdog, not low-dog. I knew Id said it wrong earlier and you were just going to tease me with it, werent you? she said, lightly hitting my shoulder. Thats okay; you just wait. They will win. And then, you can buy me dinner after the game.

Youre on. I said, grabbing her hand and shaking it. During the second half, Marina came to life and was yelling and cheering like shed been a basketball fan all her life. I couldnt help but laugh at her as she stood screaming at the ref about a bad call. But, her enthusiasm was contagious and it didnt take long before I joined her and we became a Mystics cheering squad, much to the dismay of those around us.

It was an unbelievable second half. The Mystics had a tremendous run late in the half to tie the score with just over 1 minute left. The Sparks were up by 2 with 6 seconds left, but it was Washingtons ball and a three point buzzer shot by the Mystics snatched the title out of LAs grasp. Marina and I lagged in our seats, talking about the game and the various players, waiting for the arena to clear a bit and watching both teams as they did the obligatory good game walk-by and then briefly formed a post game huddle. As the Mystics were leaving the court, Chamique Holdsclaw jogged over to stand right in front of us. She pulled off her jersey and tossed it to Marina saying Glad you enjoyed the game as she continued off the floor to join her team in the locker room. All I could do was stand and laugh. Marina held the sweaty shirt as if it might have been contaminated with the Ebola virus and looked at me, as if asking what the ***** am I suppose to do with this?

Its an honor. I told her. Um, in her way, shes saying thanks for the support. Marina still held the shirt at arms length as if disgusted. You have to admit, Marina, it was certainly hard to miss you as the loan Mystics fan in this section yelling and screaming.

Marina was not buying any of it and wanted no part of the sweaty jersey. Here, let me carry that for you. I said taking it out of her hand. It was wet and sorta gross, but I thought it was too cool to care.

Walking out of the stadium, I spotted a little girl of about 6 or 7. She was with her father and animatedly talking about how great the game was and how she was going to play basketball just like Chamique when she grew up. I smiled as I watched her and her father. Suddenly Marina grabbed the jersey from me and jogged over to the little girl. I couldnt hear what she said to the girl or the father as she held up the jersey, but the little girl threw her arms around Marinas waist and squealed; she was jumping up and down and hugging the jersey to herself as Marina walked back to join me.

Tears stung the back of my eyes as I whispered, Marina, that was really nice of you.

Marina tossed her arm over my shoulder and said So, where are you taking me for dinner?

I looked up at her and said Gloating. Very attractive on you Marina. I laughed and slipped my arm around her waist. Well, I guess you deserve it. You single handedly cheered a loosing team to victory. Where would you like to go? I asked.

I know just the place she said as we reached the parking lot.


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Marina and I arrived at the Terrace Caf on Venice Beach a little after 10. They had live music and a simple menu. We took a table outside and enjoyed a bottle of wine and a light meal. As we left the caf, I asked if she wanted to walk on the beach a bit. She agreed and we both headed down to the water.

It wasnt long before I had kicked off my shoes and was walking in the waves, splashing along with my pants wet up to the knees. Marina laughed at me saying How do you do it?

Do what? I asked.

Marina was quiet for a long moment before she replied. Enjoy life so much? You remind me of a child; always happy and in awe of the world around you.

Oh I said, stopping in my tracks, and turning my back to her.

Marina cut me off and her voice was melancholy as she spoke, No, it is wonderful. I feel like I lost that so long ago. Life got serious and busy. AndI did too.

The words were barely out of her mouth when I turned, kicking a spray of water in her direction. She let out a small scream in shock, and stood there in disbelief, arms held out from her now wet body. It seemed like she stood like that for a long time, and I was beginning to think that the splashing thing might not have been such a good idea; but, just as I was about to apologize, she laughed and came after me. I took off running down the beach, Marina right behind me yelling that shed get me.

It didnt take her long. She grabbed me from behind and we tumbled to the sand both giggling. Before I knew what was happening, her lips were on mine. In the surprise of it, I wasnt sure what to do. While my mind was reeling with this turn of events and the possible repercussions, her warm lips and her tongue slipping over my lips quickly sent my body into autopilot; I was kissing her back, my tongue teasing hers, sucking and nibbling her bottom lip, one hand in her hair the other sliding down to her breast. The sound of someone clearing their throat jerked us apart. We looked around in time to see a couple of teens strolling away from us.

Busted! I cried. Sitting up, with my elbows resting on my knees, I put my head in my hands as I spoke. Oh, my God. I havent been busted for making out in public since I was 16 years old. I laughed, but I was embarrassed now, and my mind was racing with questions about what had just happened.

Marina sat up beside me. Neither of us touching now, we were silent, each lost in our own thoughts. For a long time, we both sat staring out at the ocean, at the waves crashing into the shore.

I looked at Marina. Sitting there, lost in her thoughts, her mind a million miles away, she was the most beautiful woman Id ever seen. I studied her, wondering what she was thinking. I opened my mouth to ask, thought better of it and instead turned my attention to the sky just in time to see it.

I hit Marina with my left hand while my right hand pointed to the sky. Look, Marina! A falling star. Make a wish. I cried.

WhatOh she gasp as she caught sight of the streak of light.

Make a wish. I repeated.

Marina frowned at me and shook her head. But before she could speak, I said Falling stars are magic, you know. What ever you wish for will come true.

At that, she turned her face to the sky and closed her eyes for a moment. I stood up and when she opened her eyes, I offered her my hand.

We walked slowly down the beach back towards where Id parked. We were almost off the beach when I hesitantly began, Marina, what would you think about making this a weekly thing? I just dont think that this workaholic problem we have can really be dealt with in a single meeting. I think most of these support group things take time, you know? My tone was light and joking, but I desperately wanted Marina to say yes.

As we arrived at my bike, she turned to me with a smile and said, Youre right; I dont think it can be handled with just a single meeting. This might take a while.