tennis slash - Smart People (6)
Title: Smart People (6)
Author: Kris S.
Fandom: Tennis RPS
Players: Rafael Nadal, Richard Gasquet, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Ernests Gulbis, Marin Cilic, Janko Tipsarevic, Roger Federer, Robin Soderling, Evgeny Korolev
Rating: PG13
Disclaimer: This did not happen.
Summary: College AU. Richard and Rafael are geniuses who are roommates in a suite, though they’re different as could be. Inspired by the movie Real Genius. This chapter: Rafa and Andy gang up on Novak, Marin tries to utilize Janko as a resource, and Federer resumes his mind games.
Chapter 6 - Games
Soccer Sundays. A tradition in the suite. It's not a given that everyone will attend the game but it is a given that there will be breakfast beforehand.
This is one tradition that Novak and Andy, in particular, enjoy as they're the main soccer players in the suite. Rafael plays as well but isn't as committed to the routine. Richard doesn't particularly care; then again, as Novak loves pointing out, it's the one time that Richard trails the other three in skills.
Ernie left the suite early this morning because his father is in town for a business trip. Marin decides it is worth being a spectator at this soccer game and tags along, book in tow. It is the first time Marin has been off-campus since college started.
Novak is driving and playing tour guide about the sites, Rafael interjects every few seconds with questionable facts while Marin is in the back seat with Andy, who has his sunglasses and headphones on and otherwise tuning them out. The original plan involved Novak meeting with Janko and Mario later but Mario had to bail. As a result, Janko decided he'd meet the group for breakfast instead and put off housework to the evening.
Marin turns to Andy, taking in his new appearance. He now understands why everyone was pushing for this, though he also notices how uncomfortable Andy appears when Novak marvels over the result. Then again, Andy may have looked good but he definitely didn't look well. Andy says he’ll see how he feels after breakfast before deciding about the game, but he still wants to catch up with the others. Rafael seems especially concerned; while getting ready, Novak jokingly asked if Andy had found anyone last night and Rafael told him to shut it.
Novak suddenly announces, "I am not dating Ernie."
Marin jolts his head at the random comment, wondering where on earth that came from. Clearly, the other riders understand because Andy wakes from his dream world to shake his head while Rafael insists, "We know you, Nole."
Andy continues, "It's not a surprise. Every inter-suite relationship that's been more than friendly has one common element: you."
"Hey!"
Rafael says, "He's right. Initially it was Janko. You had a bond..."
Novak corrects him, "Not even… no. He's just a countryman..."
Andy and Rafael say in unison, hands clenched over their hearts, "... and like a big brother." Marin can't help but chuckle at them.
Novak lets out a loud huff. "I am not that bad."
"Yes, you really are," Rafael says. "You also can't explain away the Richie thing so easily."
Andy adds, "You definitely had a crush on him that first year."
Rafael mimics Novak as he continues, "So fascinating. Attractive, intelligent and worldly."
"Shut up," Novak says weakly, turning into the parking lot.
Andy says seriously, "It would have been fascinating if Richie had actually gone along with it."
Rafael corrects him, "In the way that one views any train wreck."
Novak parks the car, then says, "I don't understand how I can be friends with you," pointing to Rafael, "and friends with you," pointing to Andy, "yet despise both of you when you're together."
Marin looks out the window and sees a dark-haired guy with black rimmed glasses sitting on a bench holding a pocket-sized notebook. Novak rolls down the window and shouts out, "New lyrics?"
The guy raises his head and smiles upon hearing that voice. "Nole!" He closes the book and stands up, Marin noticing the guy looks more like a rock musician than a guy who graduated with a business degree and is currently an accountant. As everyone exits the car, the guy can't resist asking, "Have you fallen for the newbie yet?" then glances at Marin.
Novak shoves a laughing Rafael, assuming he's the one who blabbed, as Andy answers, "Yeah but not this one. Janko, meet the other new guy Marin."
Janko snaps, "Novak. How many times must I tell you - don't abuse the kid!" He removes his glasses to size up Andy. "Richie did a good job. I feared he was going to have you wearing pastels but I like the dark blue." Janko looks back at the car. "The prince isn’t here? I figured he’d ditch the game but breakfast was safe."
"No," Rafael says with a grin. "He's being a mad scientist today.”
Other than the bad at soccer part, Marin hadn’t been aware of a real reason. Andy notices Marin’s questioning look and explains, “That means he’s studying.”
* * * * *
Richard is doing research in the Life Science library when a familiar voice bellows, "It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon early in the semester and you're holed up in the library?"
"There's work to be done, sir." Richard keeps his focus straight ahead as there’s no point in facing Professor Federer. The only people in the area are the library staff, looking for any entertainment to survive a dull Sunday shift.
"Yet you manage to take time away from your studies to assist in my class? Richard, this is a new low."
"Henman's orders. I just abide by them."
"Even if you pass, you will fail. How you relate to others determines your success or failure as a person. You think nothing of manipulating others for entertainment purposes."
"I could say the same about you. Except in your case, it would be accurate."
"See, you didn't like to hear the truth. You couldn't handle reality.” Richard can feel the smile forming at these words, sending a shiver up his spine. Even though Richard has tried not to move, Federer can sense he’s made an impact and pounces. “In fact, you still can't handle it. You can’t stay still long enough to ponder why you aren't concerned about anybody else and nobody is concerned about you. How you jump from one person to another with no regard for their feelings. You are a robot, feeling nothing but apathy toward anyone."
"Are you trying to analyze me again, sir?"
"I find you intriguing. Quite a piece of work indeed. Have a lovely day."
When he is sure that Federer is gone, Richard lets out a loud sigh then mutters an apology to the librarian. Just because he is no longer blind to what Federer is doing doesn’t make him any less difficult to deal with.
* * * * *
They’ve just placed their orders to the waitress when Janko decides to mention, “I hear you finally had to admit your age to Feliciano.”
Novak jolts upright at the information, yelping, “What? When did you do that?”
Andy says, “You were too busy cuddling up to Ernie while some cheesy 80s sitcom…”
“Shut up.” Novak turns his back on Andy and asks Rafael, “Seriously. When?”
“About a week ago.” Rafael shrugs in response. “I suppose it should matter more but I’m just realizing Feli was a waste of time. He can enjoy being happily ever after with Fernando while kissing Federer’s ass.”
Three groans follow the end of that sentence. Janko complains, "Not again."
Novak says, “I shouldn’t be surprised he’s another one of those. That chemistry department is one screwed-up group. Maybe you shouldn’t date anyone else from there. Tommy was a pain but this... You just don’t know if he’ll turn out to be a worshipper to the Fed throne.”
Rafael starts, “There are good guys in that department…”
“Don’t even think about it,” Novak snaps, suddenly turning very serious on the matter. “Richie needs all the allies over there he can get. He’s fortunate the grad director used common sense and persuaded Federer to sign off for the master’s acceptance.”
Marin interrupts to ask, “Common sense?”
Rafael and Novak stop, surprised to hear Marin speak. Rafael says, “Grades, professor signatures… you know, the actual requirements.”
“Okay,” Marin says slowly. “As opposed to what?”
"Personal opinion based off a questionable study. That is the kinder version, from Professor Henman when he threatened disciplinary action. The professor is on thin ice within the department."
Andy throws in, "I was Richie’s roommate back then and he tried to explain about Federer's personal vendetta. I didn't really understand so assumed he was paranoid. Now that I'm in the process of applying for a similar program, I realize how much bullshit was involved.”
Marin really wants to know about Andy being Richard’s roommate but Rafael speaks first. "Yeah but there are no drama queens in the applied math department. Just a bunch of geeks who are obsessed with numbers. How can anyone get a date there unless they go within their species?"
Andy glares at him but it is clear to all this is not a serious debate. "Well, the comp sci students band together to crack the secret codes on video games so no wonder you look to the chem department for dates."
"Given your love of video games, Andrew, I'm not sure if that's you being jealous of the comp sci department or the chem department. Pick one.”
Janko and Novak laugh at their exchange, Novak saying sarcastically, “Yeah, Rafa, you know it’s all about those hot guys in the comp sci field. I mean, it is so difficult to resist the charms of Robin Soderling.”
Marin could swear that Andy flinched at that comment and Rafael seems equally taken aback before remembering this is a common remark in the group. Fortunately, Janko says, “Nole, it is not even close to funny to ever throw that guy into this particular discussion.”
“Oh come on. It must be funny. Somebody finds him irresistible, even when he is looking down his nose at the rest of us.”
Andy mutters under his breath, “He’s not that horrible. Just responsible…” then shakes his head.
Rafael stares at Andy as if he’s grown a second head, then nervously chuckles. “See? This is why not to drink too much.”
* * * * *
Marin hasn’t really touched the book since the game started. Part of that is because of the action on the field. Rafael had said that his background with soccer was reduced to family gatherings but both Novak and Andy had played in high school. Andy in particular is impressive, especially considering he’d looked dead to the world before breakfast.
Marin didn’t really get involved in organized sports, which was especially bad since he was always pegged for the basketball team but was rather klutzy. He sees the players interacting so easily and wishes, not for the first time, he wasn’t that square peg.
Janko has been jotting down scribbles in his notebook, intending to leave before the end of the game. It was awkward to say the least to be next to this stranger. Marin decides on small talk. “You miss college?”
“I don’t miss the classes, that’s for sure. I doubt the others believed I’d seriously use the business degree but that’s life. Even musicians need people to manage their money. I do miss this, though,” pointing to the field.
“Richie and Andy were roommates? I thought they couldn’t stand each other!”
“Technically true. Worst decision ever.”
“Luck of the draw?”
“Actually, that was by choice. Well, maybe choice is the wrong word but it wasn’t administration either. Mario and I were already roommates in a double but wanted to get into a suite. Richie lived down the hall and was initially part of the group but took off after his sophomore year for the Europe trip. Due to that and other factors, the plan fell through.”
Marin realizes he inadvertently backed into a much more intriguing topic. “He suddenly decided to travel?”
“Um, well… that is rather complicated. I will say that the guy you know now is nothing like the guy I knew then. He was more like you, actually.”
“What?!” Marin blurts out. “That’s impossible!”
“I am absolutely serious. Overly obsessed with school work, not especially social, it taking a damn crowbar to get him out of the dorm on a beautiful Sunday morning. Does that sound like you?”
Marin looks away, not sure if he likes the accuracy of Janko’s unflinching description. Though he has to admit, “It sounds like me. It definitely does not sound like him.”
Janko smirks. “Yeah, that’s what they,” pointing to the field, “say as well. Though you can kind of still tell, such as when he acts as a protective big brother to them.” He shakes his head. “This is not what you asked me about.”
“No. Richie and Andy as roommates.”
“Right. Well, when Richie came back to school, we were a year further along so we got the suite and he roomed with Gilles, this guy in my business classes. The third room was filled by admin with two freshmen: Rafa and Nole. They met Andy playing soccer, I think. Andy had a problem with his roommate or something so, when Gilles moved off-campus, Andy took the empty spot. If you ask housing, Andy and Richie shared a room for a whole semester. In reality, that arrangement only lasted about six weeks before swapping roommates.”
“But Andy and Rafa are the best friends. Why would…” It then clicks something they said to Novak in the car. “Oh right. Novak couldn’t because he had a crush on Richie?” Marin hopes this is common knowledge because it would suck if he’s the one to reveal that secret.
Janko looks surprised that Marin knew but does answer, “Yeah. Though Novak didn’t know at that point that Richie already was aware and was turned off by the fact that Novak found him fascinating.”
Rafael and Andy had especially stressed that word when teasing earlier. Marin didn’t understand then and it doesn’t make sense now. “Wait. Isn’t that a good thing?”
“He felt like he was being studied. Absolutely hates that,” Janko staring pointedly at the Croat. Marin shrinks at the gaze, realizing he’s been discovered in the process. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. Instead of trying to learn about the others from me, try to involve yourself with them. It’s a lot more fun that way than treating people as the cast of a mystery novel.”
* * * * *
“Hey guys,” Robin calls out as the crew sets foot in the dorm hours later. He is lounging in the RA office, his feet up on the table and a book in hand.
Marin looks at the clock, then mutters, “There’s supposed to be a study session going on. Evgeny… I’ll see you upstairs.” He utilizes his long legs to make short work of the stairs.
Novak chuckles at how animated Marin suddenly became, then walks toward the office. “Hi Robin. Do you know if Roddick is around?”
“No idea.” Robin looks over Novak’s shoulder and sees Andy there. “How you feeling?”
Andy answers cautiously, “Better.”
Rafael drags Andy toward the stairs, growling, “Don’t even think of getting sucked into his vortex again.”
Robin narrows his stare on Rafael, snapping, “Hey! It’s a simple question. No need to get jealous of me speaking to your sidekick. I was just being a good guy because you weren’t putting out.”
Rafael stops in his tracks, jaw dropping in shock. Then just as suddenly, he jolts toward the RA. Andy grabs onto Rafael’s arm before he’s able to get too close, barking out, “Cut it out!”
Novak looks uncomfortable with the entire scene, reminding Rafael, “Robin is just fucking with your head.”
Robin stands up, says, “Someone is fucking with someone’s head but I think you have the people mixed up.” He gathers his belongings and the keys, then steps in the hallway and locks the door. “I’m going back to my room because I don’t need to deal with this childishness. When you decide to stop hiding, you’ll feel a lot better.”
Once Robin is out of their view, Andy mutters, “I’m sorry. He twisted around what I said. It wasn’t…”
Now that the fight is out of him, Rafael relaxes and Andy releases his grip. “Don’t worry about him. You’ve been out of the game and he was there. At the next party, I will make sure you have nothing to worry about.”
Novak watches as they head upstairs, then says to himself, “I guess I have been hanging around Ernie too much this semester because they are making even less sense than usual.”
* * * * *
Marin arrives at the dorm to find that Evgeny and Richard are already set up in the main room. Richard is sitting on the floor while Evgeny is leaning forward so he can see what Richard is writing. Marin says, “Sorry I’m late. That’s what happens when you have to rely on Novak for a ride. He gets easily distracted.”
Evgeny replies, “No problem. Five minutes with this guy,” pointing to Richard, “and I at least am reasonably confident I won’t fail out of this class. You’re a lifesaver, man.”
Richard looks down, muttering, “You’re welcome.”
Evgeny leans back on the couch, throwing a glance Marin’s way as he asks, “Are you joining us?”
When Marin doesn’t initially move, Richard holds his hand out to the table. “Come on. You think you’re above a little study session?”
Marin takes the hint and nods quickly, then shakes his head and rushes over to sit down at the other end of the couch. “Of course not.”
Evgeny says, “This is so cool. No offense, Richie, but I thought you were a just another student in the class who’s been skipping lectures. Never would have pegged you for a grad student since I thought you were just a goof-off.” He looks down, away from Richard’s gaze, and ends up looking right at Marin.
Richard runs a hand through his hair and smiles. “I am not just a pretty face though I do appreciate that you think I could get away with that.”
“Sorry.” Evgeny blinks, not sure who the apology is for, then looks up. “Do you work for Professor Federer?”
“No but I have in the past. Professor Federer’s research is on DNA. My work is with Professor Henman, whose specialty is medicinal chemistry.” Richard points to the textbook. “We should get back to this, unless you just want this as an excuse to flirt, which I can totally respect as well.”
“I’m not flirting with you. Damn.” Evgeny scratches the back of his neck. Marin is surprised to see Evgeny frazzled, not used to being called out. “That’s right, it is all about getting a good grade in this class. Absolutely nothing else. Probably boring the crap out of Marin in the process so if you don’t want to be here…”
“That is silly,” Marin says quickly, then looks to Richard. It is then he realizes Janko is right; Marin needs to get directly involved instead of analyzing everyone’s actions. “I am staying.”
Author: Kris S.
Fandom: Tennis RPS
Players: Rafael Nadal, Richard Gasquet, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Ernests Gulbis, Marin Cilic, Janko Tipsarevic, Roger Federer, Robin Soderling, Evgeny Korolev
Rating: PG13
Disclaimer: This did not happen.
Summary: College AU. Richard and Rafael are geniuses who are roommates in a suite, though they’re different as could be. Inspired by the movie Real Genius. This chapter: Rafa and Andy gang up on Novak, Marin tries to utilize Janko as a resource, and Federer resumes his mind games.
Chapter 6 - Games
Soccer Sundays. A tradition in the suite. It's not a given that everyone will attend the game but it is a given that there will be breakfast beforehand.
This is one tradition that Novak and Andy, in particular, enjoy as they're the main soccer players in the suite. Rafael plays as well but isn't as committed to the routine. Richard doesn't particularly care; then again, as Novak loves pointing out, it's the one time that Richard trails the other three in skills.
Ernie left the suite early this morning because his father is in town for a business trip. Marin decides it is worth being a spectator at this soccer game and tags along, book in tow. It is the first time Marin has been off-campus since college started.
Novak is driving and playing tour guide about the sites, Rafael interjects every few seconds with questionable facts while Marin is in the back seat with Andy, who has his sunglasses and headphones on and otherwise tuning them out. The original plan involved Novak meeting with Janko and Mario later but Mario had to bail. As a result, Janko decided he'd meet the group for breakfast instead and put off housework to the evening.
Marin turns to Andy, taking in his new appearance. He now understands why everyone was pushing for this, though he also notices how uncomfortable Andy appears when Novak marvels over the result. Then again, Andy may have looked good but he definitely didn't look well. Andy says he’ll see how he feels after breakfast before deciding about the game, but he still wants to catch up with the others. Rafael seems especially concerned; while getting ready, Novak jokingly asked if Andy had found anyone last night and Rafael told him to shut it.
Novak suddenly announces, "I am not dating Ernie."
Marin jolts his head at the random comment, wondering where on earth that came from. Clearly, the other riders understand because Andy wakes from his dream world to shake his head while Rafael insists, "We know you, Nole."
Andy continues, "It's not a surprise. Every inter-suite relationship that's been more than friendly has one common element: you."
"Hey!"
Rafael says, "He's right. Initially it was Janko. You had a bond..."
Novak corrects him, "Not even… no. He's just a countryman..."
Andy and Rafael say in unison, hands clenched over their hearts, "... and like a big brother." Marin can't help but chuckle at them.
Novak lets out a loud huff. "I am not that bad."
"Yes, you really are," Rafael says. "You also can't explain away the Richie thing so easily."
Andy adds, "You definitely had a crush on him that first year."
Rafael mimics Novak as he continues, "So fascinating. Attractive, intelligent and worldly."
"Shut up," Novak says weakly, turning into the parking lot.
Andy says seriously, "It would have been fascinating if Richie had actually gone along with it."
Rafael corrects him, "In the way that one views any train wreck."
Novak parks the car, then says, "I don't understand how I can be friends with you," pointing to Rafael, "and friends with you," pointing to Andy, "yet despise both of you when you're together."
Marin looks out the window and sees a dark-haired guy with black rimmed glasses sitting on a bench holding a pocket-sized notebook. Novak rolls down the window and shouts out, "New lyrics?"
The guy raises his head and smiles upon hearing that voice. "Nole!" He closes the book and stands up, Marin noticing the guy looks more like a rock musician than a guy who graduated with a business degree and is currently an accountant. As everyone exits the car, the guy can't resist asking, "Have you fallen for the newbie yet?" then glances at Marin.
Novak shoves a laughing Rafael, assuming he's the one who blabbed, as Andy answers, "Yeah but not this one. Janko, meet the other new guy Marin."
Janko snaps, "Novak. How many times must I tell you - don't abuse the kid!" He removes his glasses to size up Andy. "Richie did a good job. I feared he was going to have you wearing pastels but I like the dark blue." Janko looks back at the car. "The prince isn’t here? I figured he’d ditch the game but breakfast was safe."
"No," Rafael says with a grin. "He's being a mad scientist today.”
Other than the bad at soccer part, Marin hadn’t been aware of a real reason. Andy notices Marin’s questioning look and explains, “That means he’s studying.”
* * * * *
Richard is doing research in the Life Science library when a familiar voice bellows, "It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon early in the semester and you're holed up in the library?"
"There's work to be done, sir." Richard keeps his focus straight ahead as there’s no point in facing Professor Federer. The only people in the area are the library staff, looking for any entertainment to survive a dull Sunday shift.
"Yet you manage to take time away from your studies to assist in my class? Richard, this is a new low."
"Henman's orders. I just abide by them."
"Even if you pass, you will fail. How you relate to others determines your success or failure as a person. You think nothing of manipulating others for entertainment purposes."
"I could say the same about you. Except in your case, it would be accurate."
"See, you didn't like to hear the truth. You couldn't handle reality.” Richard can feel the smile forming at these words, sending a shiver up his spine. Even though Richard has tried not to move, Federer can sense he’s made an impact and pounces. “In fact, you still can't handle it. You can’t stay still long enough to ponder why you aren't concerned about anybody else and nobody is concerned about you. How you jump from one person to another with no regard for their feelings. You are a robot, feeling nothing but apathy toward anyone."
"Are you trying to analyze me again, sir?"
"I find you intriguing. Quite a piece of work indeed. Have a lovely day."
When he is sure that Federer is gone, Richard lets out a loud sigh then mutters an apology to the librarian. Just because he is no longer blind to what Federer is doing doesn’t make him any less difficult to deal with.
* * * * *
They’ve just placed their orders to the waitress when Janko decides to mention, “I hear you finally had to admit your age to Feliciano.”
Novak jolts upright at the information, yelping, “What? When did you do that?”
Andy says, “You were too busy cuddling up to Ernie while some cheesy 80s sitcom…”
“Shut up.” Novak turns his back on Andy and asks Rafael, “Seriously. When?”
“About a week ago.” Rafael shrugs in response. “I suppose it should matter more but I’m just realizing Feli was a waste of time. He can enjoy being happily ever after with Fernando while kissing Federer’s ass.”
Three groans follow the end of that sentence. Janko complains, "Not again."
Novak says, “I shouldn’t be surprised he’s another one of those. That chemistry department is one screwed-up group. Maybe you shouldn’t date anyone else from there. Tommy was a pain but this... You just don’t know if he’ll turn out to be a worshipper to the Fed throne.”
Rafael starts, “There are good guys in that department…”
“Don’t even think about it,” Novak snaps, suddenly turning very serious on the matter. “Richie needs all the allies over there he can get. He’s fortunate the grad director used common sense and persuaded Federer to sign off for the master’s acceptance.”
Marin interrupts to ask, “Common sense?”
Rafael and Novak stop, surprised to hear Marin speak. Rafael says, “Grades, professor signatures… you know, the actual requirements.”
“Okay,” Marin says slowly. “As opposed to what?”
"Personal opinion based off a questionable study. That is the kinder version, from Professor Henman when he threatened disciplinary action. The professor is on thin ice within the department."
Andy throws in, "I was Richie’s roommate back then and he tried to explain about Federer's personal vendetta. I didn't really understand so assumed he was paranoid. Now that I'm in the process of applying for a similar program, I realize how much bullshit was involved.”
Marin really wants to know about Andy being Richard’s roommate but Rafael speaks first. "Yeah but there are no drama queens in the applied math department. Just a bunch of geeks who are obsessed with numbers. How can anyone get a date there unless they go within their species?"
Andy glares at him but it is clear to all this is not a serious debate. "Well, the comp sci students band together to crack the secret codes on video games so no wonder you look to the chem department for dates."
"Given your love of video games, Andrew, I'm not sure if that's you being jealous of the comp sci department or the chem department. Pick one.”
Janko and Novak laugh at their exchange, Novak saying sarcastically, “Yeah, Rafa, you know it’s all about those hot guys in the comp sci field. I mean, it is so difficult to resist the charms of Robin Soderling.”
Marin could swear that Andy flinched at that comment and Rafael seems equally taken aback before remembering this is a common remark in the group. Fortunately, Janko says, “Nole, it is not even close to funny to ever throw that guy into this particular discussion.”
“Oh come on. It must be funny. Somebody finds him irresistible, even when he is looking down his nose at the rest of us.”
Andy mutters under his breath, “He’s not that horrible. Just responsible…” then shakes his head.
Rafael stares at Andy as if he’s grown a second head, then nervously chuckles. “See? This is why not to drink too much.”
* * * * *
Marin hasn’t really touched the book since the game started. Part of that is because of the action on the field. Rafael had said that his background with soccer was reduced to family gatherings but both Novak and Andy had played in high school. Andy in particular is impressive, especially considering he’d looked dead to the world before breakfast.
Marin didn’t really get involved in organized sports, which was especially bad since he was always pegged for the basketball team but was rather klutzy. He sees the players interacting so easily and wishes, not for the first time, he wasn’t that square peg.
Janko has been jotting down scribbles in his notebook, intending to leave before the end of the game. It was awkward to say the least to be next to this stranger. Marin decides on small talk. “You miss college?”
“I don’t miss the classes, that’s for sure. I doubt the others believed I’d seriously use the business degree but that’s life. Even musicians need people to manage their money. I do miss this, though,” pointing to the field.
“Richie and Andy were roommates? I thought they couldn’t stand each other!”
“Technically true. Worst decision ever.”
“Luck of the draw?”
“Actually, that was by choice. Well, maybe choice is the wrong word but it wasn’t administration either. Mario and I were already roommates in a double but wanted to get into a suite. Richie lived down the hall and was initially part of the group but took off after his sophomore year for the Europe trip. Due to that and other factors, the plan fell through.”
Marin realizes he inadvertently backed into a much more intriguing topic. “He suddenly decided to travel?”
“Um, well… that is rather complicated. I will say that the guy you know now is nothing like the guy I knew then. He was more like you, actually.”
“What?!” Marin blurts out. “That’s impossible!”
“I am absolutely serious. Overly obsessed with school work, not especially social, it taking a damn crowbar to get him out of the dorm on a beautiful Sunday morning. Does that sound like you?”
Marin looks away, not sure if he likes the accuracy of Janko’s unflinching description. Though he has to admit, “It sounds like me. It definitely does not sound like him.”
Janko smirks. “Yeah, that’s what they,” pointing to the field, “say as well. Though you can kind of still tell, such as when he acts as a protective big brother to them.” He shakes his head. “This is not what you asked me about.”
“No. Richie and Andy as roommates.”
“Right. Well, when Richie came back to school, we were a year further along so we got the suite and he roomed with Gilles, this guy in my business classes. The third room was filled by admin with two freshmen: Rafa and Nole. They met Andy playing soccer, I think. Andy had a problem with his roommate or something so, when Gilles moved off-campus, Andy took the empty spot. If you ask housing, Andy and Richie shared a room for a whole semester. In reality, that arrangement only lasted about six weeks before swapping roommates.”
“But Andy and Rafa are the best friends. Why would…” It then clicks something they said to Novak in the car. “Oh right. Novak couldn’t because he had a crush on Richie?” Marin hopes this is common knowledge because it would suck if he’s the one to reveal that secret.
Janko looks surprised that Marin knew but does answer, “Yeah. Though Novak didn’t know at that point that Richie already was aware and was turned off by the fact that Novak found him fascinating.”
Rafael and Andy had especially stressed that word when teasing earlier. Marin didn’t understand then and it doesn’t make sense now. “Wait. Isn’t that a good thing?”
“He felt like he was being studied. Absolutely hates that,” Janko staring pointedly at the Croat. Marin shrinks at the gaze, realizing he’s been discovered in the process. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. Instead of trying to learn about the others from me, try to involve yourself with them. It’s a lot more fun that way than treating people as the cast of a mystery novel.”
* * * * *
“Hey guys,” Robin calls out as the crew sets foot in the dorm hours later. He is lounging in the RA office, his feet up on the table and a book in hand.
Marin looks at the clock, then mutters, “There’s supposed to be a study session going on. Evgeny… I’ll see you upstairs.” He utilizes his long legs to make short work of the stairs.
Novak chuckles at how animated Marin suddenly became, then walks toward the office. “Hi Robin. Do you know if Roddick is around?”
“No idea.” Robin looks over Novak’s shoulder and sees Andy there. “How you feeling?”
Andy answers cautiously, “Better.”
Rafael drags Andy toward the stairs, growling, “Don’t even think of getting sucked into his vortex again.”
Robin narrows his stare on Rafael, snapping, “Hey! It’s a simple question. No need to get jealous of me speaking to your sidekick. I was just being a good guy because you weren’t putting out.”
Rafael stops in his tracks, jaw dropping in shock. Then just as suddenly, he jolts toward the RA. Andy grabs onto Rafael’s arm before he’s able to get too close, barking out, “Cut it out!”
Novak looks uncomfortable with the entire scene, reminding Rafael, “Robin is just fucking with your head.”
Robin stands up, says, “Someone is fucking with someone’s head but I think you have the people mixed up.” He gathers his belongings and the keys, then steps in the hallway and locks the door. “I’m going back to my room because I don’t need to deal with this childishness. When you decide to stop hiding, you’ll feel a lot better.”
Once Robin is out of their view, Andy mutters, “I’m sorry. He twisted around what I said. It wasn’t…”
Now that the fight is out of him, Rafael relaxes and Andy releases his grip. “Don’t worry about him. You’ve been out of the game and he was there. At the next party, I will make sure you have nothing to worry about.”
Novak watches as they head upstairs, then says to himself, “I guess I have been hanging around Ernie too much this semester because they are making even less sense than usual.”
* * * * *
Marin arrives at the dorm to find that Evgeny and Richard are already set up in the main room. Richard is sitting on the floor while Evgeny is leaning forward so he can see what Richard is writing. Marin says, “Sorry I’m late. That’s what happens when you have to rely on Novak for a ride. He gets easily distracted.”
Evgeny replies, “No problem. Five minutes with this guy,” pointing to Richard, “and I at least am reasonably confident I won’t fail out of this class. You’re a lifesaver, man.”
Richard looks down, muttering, “You’re welcome.”
Evgeny leans back on the couch, throwing a glance Marin’s way as he asks, “Are you joining us?”
When Marin doesn’t initially move, Richard holds his hand out to the table. “Come on. You think you’re above a little study session?”
Marin takes the hint and nods quickly, then shakes his head and rushes over to sit down at the other end of the couch. “Of course not.”
Evgeny says, “This is so cool. No offense, Richie, but I thought you were a just another student in the class who’s been skipping lectures. Never would have pegged you for a grad student since I thought you were just a goof-off.” He looks down, away from Richard’s gaze, and ends up looking right at Marin.
Richard runs a hand through his hair and smiles. “I am not just a pretty face though I do appreciate that you think I could get away with that.”
“Sorry.” Evgeny blinks, not sure who the apology is for, then looks up. “Do you work for Professor Federer?”
“No but I have in the past. Professor Federer’s research is on DNA. My work is with Professor Henman, whose specialty is medicinal chemistry.” Richard points to the textbook. “We should get back to this, unless you just want this as an excuse to flirt, which I can totally respect as well.”
“I’m not flirting with you. Damn.” Evgeny scratches the back of his neck. Marin is surprised to see Evgeny frazzled, not used to being called out. “That’s right, it is all about getting a good grade in this class. Absolutely nothing else. Probably boring the crap out of Marin in the process so if you don’t want to be here…”
“That is silly,” Marin says quickly, then looks to Richard. It is then he realizes Janko is right; Marin needs to get directly involved instead of analyzing everyone’s actions. “I am staying.”