CHAPTER 41
Leo
The traffic is awful and I arrive just in time for the players to come out on court.
I haven’t heard from George all day. Not even a response to my good luck text.
I imagine it’s because he’s prepping, mentally getting ready for his second-round match.
But I can’t shake the nagging feeling that something isn’t right.
He wouldn’t just ignore me. I feel queasy as I arrive at the box, sitting the opposite side to Gordon, who doesn’t even acknowledge me as I squeeze past; desperate not to touch one hair of his, my body shudders.
The atmosphere is electric, the late-night crowd building in excitement to see George at the top of his game. He’s the one they’re here for, the handsome superstar regaining his form, on top of the world. It’s addictive and I try to settle but the nervous energy won’t budge. Something’s off.
My fears are confirmed when I see him walk down the tunnel.
He’s not there, not himself. No power, no presence, just a cold, hard stare. It’s different to his usual focus; he’s lost, deep within himself. It’s like Melbourne. And there’s nothing I can do about it now.
I stand, cheering loudly as he moves to his area just in front of us. I can’t risk saying anything with Gordon here, but I need him to know that he’s OK. That he’s safe and capable.
I don’t even know if his phone will be in his bag, but I try anyway.
Leo James:
George. I’m worried about you. But you’re ok. I’m here. You’ll smash this.
I see him reach into his bag, sneaking a look as he prepares. He looks at it, looks at me with unfeeling eyes and types back.
My phone buzzes.
George Hampden:
Did you do it?
Is Gordon telling the truth?
I gasp, almost dropping my phone, and look up to see George turned away, his jaw clenched tight. Nobody else would notice his hands shaking slightly, his foot tapping more than usual.
He believes I could have tried to sleep with Gordon? He’s even entertaining that it’s a possibility. I look over at Gordon who smirks at me now, before turning his attention back to George.
‘Come on, Georgy! You’ve got this,’ he shouts loudly, and George turns to him, nodding.
I look between them in disbelief and shove my way past.
‘You fucking arsehole,’ I whisper at Gordon as I reach him.
‘I told you, Miss James. You’re nothing.’ He smiles politely, moving aside. To anyone looking in, I’m heading out for a break, he’s talking to me normally. ‘Now keep it quiet and we don’t have to tell Cece.’
This isn’t happening. This can’t be real.
He’s not destroying everything. Not threatening to end my career.
To end my relationship with George, the only man I’ve ever loved.
This can’t be real. But it is and I hold back my anger, my tears, and try to leave with some dignity.
I glance back at George one last time, unable to help myself, and my worst fears are confirmed. His stark face is blank, he’s gone.
‘Mr Hampden, please, to the net for the coin toss. Thank you.’
He turns and I leave. As quickly as it started. It’s over.
It’s over.