((start of a new ))

Alice's ---->>

Bronko hadn't been here in a few weeks, but he still remembers the feel of the place, and knows it will feel homey.

------>>>>>> from Alice's Beach house

 Alice smiled when she saw the place, she got out and let Brinko lead the way in since he had been here before. " This place looks nice and homey, thank you Bronko."

"Having you here will make it even better.  Great food, great company, a great future.  What more could a person want?"

From Practice

The dinner rush at Applebee's hadn't started yet. Only a couple tables had diners, and the teen hostess who should have been at the front was over flirting with the bartender. The bleach blonde didn't notice them walk in, but the appearance of Lindsey and Mindy turned the cute twenty-something bartender's head. The woman who was seeking his attention followed his gaze, realizing someone had come in. After a moment of surprise and a lingering gaze, she rushed up to the front.

"Good evening, welcome to Applebee's. Two for dinner?"

"Yes, just the two of us." Lindsey gave the girl a friendly smile.

With the place so empty, they were seated at a booth, and another woman came over immediately to take their order "Lindsey, hi. Welcome back. Oh my God, it's been so dead all afternoon. What can I get you to drink?"

"Hi Tiffany. I'll have a Tequila Sunrise, thanks. And I already know what I want to eat. Just the usual."

"And you, Ms.Lacey, what can I get you>?"

After getting both orders, Tiffany went to put them in.

"Well, I had my talks. I guess you saw me with Prince. The poor guy, he's done everything right so far. But, so far has only been one evening at a party and driving me back to the townhouses. I think he's genuine, but I've been wrong before. I think Wade is genuine too, but I'm not sure he knows what he wants. I mean, he wants me. He's made that clear, but his priorities are confused. For whatever reason, he felt he couldn't focus on the Superbowl and me. Like I'm so demanding or something."

"Oh, speaking of guys. I finally met Carl. I've seen him before of course, but I didn't know who he was. He's cute. I could just imagine him in an army uniform."

"Anyway, so tell me. How are things going with Mik? It looks like you guys are happy as clams. Has there been any talk of maybe taking the next step?"

  Mindy smiled   at the  woman wo took the order. Ill take the  Chicken Lime Fiesta thng?  and a tall coal , please.

 she   relaxed  putting her purse between her  and the wall. well........ You do  like the lime light, Right? Prince  hardly  got to know you, even when the  signed him to the PS, On game dadys he was on trhe sidlines  in street clothes. So This is something  cool for him..The fact that he stepped up and took the shot? Not many of the guys would do that...I dunno? I love to get the 'guy's codebook' and see how long you have to be  with some one, before they back off..

  the Drinks  came   and the girl hustled off , two suits came in looking  tired from their   'hard day at the offcie'..they were seated  across the rom from the Dragon Ladies.

I mean...if Mik and I broke up... i bet no one in the Building  would hit on me, Until summer camp!, But..we have been together for  a while  she  sipped  from her   soda. along those Lines  , we're doing great... its...i dunno...natural?...he calls  me or text me about stuff, i do the same thing.. we can have  plans...cancel plans.  or shift on the fly.. I would have never thought  we could Mesh like that? To be Honest, I figured  Mik  and I would  just be a fling.. being with him, i could hang with you  and Adam..but  he has  every thing in compartments.. Don't get me wrong? I love  being around Adam, but  what's the most  fun, is being around both of them..my god, its like a comedy act. I would love to be  in a new York club again with those two, and watch the  tear down the  'smooth talkers'  and  'GQ assholes"...anyway..'next step' ? I don't even know what that means. we already  wake up in his bed as much as i wake up in mine!

 the  food  came, Mindy smiled the  woman said she'd check on them in a few minutes  and to just wave if they needed anything.

  Breaking the biscuit in half, she  takes  a  small bit  and das  some  rice...  she nodded her head  at the  teste, causing  waves of hairs  to cascade  down passed her shoulders.Now  Wade? Maybe , because he's been here  since  OTAs He saw you come in..you were a big thing  with Adam, then everything happened  and you are Friends...so..Is Wade  afraid  he won't measure up, or what? who knows? sometimes i thing god just dump left over parts in their heads, and sent them out the factory door. she shakes her head.

 one thing? I wish Mik would wtch films  more... I mean..i get it , right?  He's making decent money, he's  on the Best team in NFL History, and His  best friend  is  the hammer, Sims uses  to beat in the  other teams heads in, in the press? But he counts on Adam  to point stuff out..then the coaches... don['t get me wrong, I'd  say 80% of the guys on the team  watch film when they have to..others  might come close to how Adam does..but  Adam's an Addict!.... Any way...Maybe  Wade  is trying too hard to  'be better'.  None of the Married guys  have   moved out of their housed  until the superbowl is over...most of them have kids,,so..i'm sure there is distraction. Guys who are dating Dragonettes  and other   women?  I don't see them breaking up right now?

 another bite  and  a sip...Look at   Heather.. she hooked up with megam..and its 'new' so you know  they aren't just sitting there watchign films?  Stalls..Stalls hooked up with  Babs..while, I guess he did, they been around each other alot  since he  helped  'save her' from Jers. Stalls is  as eager to win the  super  bowl as the rest of the 200 or so people in this organization... she  said, a slight smile on her  face as she added,

 Mik and Adam were talking about  Wade's  'choice".... Adam  was complaining how the guy who  'thanked him for messing up' and letting you go...let you go? meanwhile Adam and Sage  are together  most of the  time, and he's still coming up with 'Film Finds', and you see him on the field, he works  every practice, like he  is trying to make the team. And Poor   Harley.. Coach  Sims handed  her over  to Adam, Mik and Heather..  Its a  testament to her fitness, that she is  dead yet!...I won't even bring up what she did last Sunday. Saints  gotta  be putting in more time on her films, and they only have one game film of her! Anyway... Wade or Prince? that's a nice  choice  to have to make, and  we both know you like  bigger guys, Adam and Mik are like sports  cars, you seem to like those  Bulldozers!    she giggled.

  Carl...yeah,, Carl  is  very nice  , i chat with him sometimes when he's  rotated to the  Townhouse gate,  and   the Main gate... He's special forces...most to the Amota security is.  I think they have  like  400 men and women  in the operation, they rent out to  High rollers  and  Factories.. Amota  International has ..I think. 4 squads of   them stationed there... I guess between the Money, the international flights and  all the Military  stuff the Amota's  work on, they make sure   they have the right people. No one talks about it..but there have been some 'incidents' at the  airport..that  makes me mad, always some  foreign dumbasses trying to  mess things up.

 Now.. after  all that , i have to tell you Bob heard  some of the   outsider Cam guys  talking, and Bill....does  what Bill does, and  has broken into  some feeds... do you know...in New Orleans. when it comes time for game talk..they were showing You , Sage  and Adam getting out of the car..  I can't 3wait until next Wednesday when  Carlton pulls the trigger for the new  commercial? the  people outside the organization , will have their heads  explode!!

 now...all that is out of the way... you are going into  a free for all for  the week end... you have to know people are going to be trying to get pcis, and get lucky with the Burger lady/football lady?

As Mindy talked, Lindsey alternately ate a forkful of Salad and sipped her drink. Mindy talked long enough where Lindsey finished her drink and the waitress brought her second. One of the best things about Applebee's was that most drinks were two for one all day everyday. They weren't as strong, which was good for hanging out and drinking all night. With a flight the next morning, She wasn't going to drink all night, but weaker drinks let you enjoy more without getting stupid drunk.

"I've given up trying to figure him out." She said of Wade "He say s he ants to be with me, but then says he'll fight hard to get me back after the Superbowl. To be fair, I did tell him that I wasn't just going to take him back after he did that to me. To his credit, he respected that, but I don't know. I feel like he's stalling. Like he's afraid or something. I mean, he did say I was scary, for some reason. Am I scary? He never acted like he was afraid before. In fact he was pretty steady."

"Prince wasn't afraid at all. Or, he didn't act afraid. He was very charming. Charming enough that I felt like I could end up sleeping with him. But there was no way I was going to do that. I mean, like, what if he just wanted to get laid and then ran around today running his mouth about it? I don/t believe he's like that, but who knows. He's too close to where I live. I have to get to know him better. He's going to cook dinner for me on Monday night. He said he used to be a seafood cook in Montana. I hope that doesn't mean rocky mountain oysters" She giggled.

"So, what I mean by the next step... Isn't it obvious? Marriage. Have you thought about marrying him? I know it's only been a month, but if you're comfortable. I mean, I wondered about marrying Adam all the time. Yeah, there were ways we were incompatible, but no couple is perfect. Sometimes I thought we could have made it work, then sometimes I thought there was no way. And no, it wasn't because he wasn't a big guy. I do like that, but that  isn't everything. You know, it's a checklist, and there are lots of possible checks. You never expect to check them all. In the end it was more that I had the feeling he didn't really want me. There was often this wall. He was always telling me I could do better than him. God, that pissed me off. I don't know. Maybe Wade feels the same way."

"Now those Hollywood guys? They aren't all athletes. Some are, but what they do have is confidence. Confidence and charm. The burger lady would love to take selfies with them."

  Mindy  listened  a  slight nod  as Lindsey spoke, Well?  If you like Wade,  and he comes through, that's a Good thing. But...you'll get to understand  that. I mean.. when youi started to see him, it  loked a bit shakey, then you seemed  pretty warm to the idea?

  finishing her   roll  and starting on her  chicken, she said,Seafood cok in Montana??  That would be like a Cajaun  Cook in Jersey!. M9omtana!..I mean.. what did they do? Catch cans of  tuna and sardines? she giggled, you have to do the  'food pic  ' thing when  you have  it  on the table.

 that whole thing  with Adam?  He's not like the other guys, right?  Families, homelife.. I mean? I knew i was out  classed bu 80 5 of the girls in Highschool, and ..maybe 60% in college..by  we could buy food, i could get a  nice  drss , sneakers   all that stuff. So, its  not hard to see what he feels that way..Wade..don't know what his story  is, but i bet he has family? bet he didn't see his Mom in a dress you and i would use  for a dishtowel, as she drove away  for  a few days leaving her  kid in a crumbling apartment...  I think of that? I wish i could  find her and pull all of  h hair out

then another shrug,between that,  the people who took advantage of him,and  street life.. he's an Apex predator  right now. I don't think any of the other teams  have a clue  how  dangerous his is..like a Wolverine  or something.

Now?  Me and Mik Married... i don't even think about that. Hit me up this time next year  and i can give you a good answer.  I mean..he was  wild..right?, and if we would split, 5 minutes later  girls  would be all over   him and  he  would most likely, jump into the pile... so..yeah.. I'll wait on that....

 Oh..here's  some Gossip  for you.. Jers?  He hit on me the other  day while i was waiting  for Mik?..i mean.. not  'i think'...he  said   if   Mik was busy he wouldn't mind taking me home...then there was that thing  when he was drunk , chasing Babs all over The Son..don't be surprised if he shows  up , knocking on your door!  He got mad  at me  when i laughed. i thought he was joking!.. he stormed off...

 she  shakes her head, hair  shimmers  again. I like Jenny's  style.. more or less 'fuck off, leave me alone"..unless she's inetrested . Smokey and  her  are prety close.l.who would have guest  Surfer dude   would be a charmer? Got to admit though, he's  fun to hang out  by, just some of the  thing he says  are so funny!

Lindsey set aside what was left of her salad. It was really just some lettuce scraps and a few carrot shreds left with no dressing. She sat back as she sipped on her drink. "Yes, I like Wade, but we'll see if he comes through. And I'm not waiting forever. But also, I need to see what happens when that Emmy Vice chick starts working here. With a name like that, she's probably trouble."

"Montana seafood." Lindsey laughed again at the idea. "He said he worked in a seafood restaurant and just got good at it. Who am I to doubt him? I guess I'll find out how good he is on Monday. Stand by for a full report."

As Lindsey poked at her drink with her straw as Mindy recited Adam's hardships growing up. All the while she was shaking her head. "I know his history. And I love Adam, you know I do. But I don't know what any of that matters. He had a horrible life, but he turned it around. Now he has to live in the present. Now he's an accomplished professional athlete and a millionaire. He has more luck than anyone I know, and virtually worshiped by everyone around him. If he wants to undervalue himself, I guess he's entitled, but when he kept telling me I could do better it was like saying I was only with him for what he could give me. Not only was it wrong, it was offensive. The only think I ever wanted from him was love."

"You know, when I got you, I could see how much you and he were alike. I thought you two were perfect for each other. You were from the same place, you had... have similar attitudes and prejudices. I was scared he would end up drifting away from me to you. That's why I pushed you Mik's way. I'm glad that worked out for you, but my motives weren't 100% pure. I was protecting my relationship. I've heard that people have said I secretly wasn't attracted to Adam. That's bullshit. But I think there was a lot about me he never liked and part of him was trying to pawn me off. I know that's all past now, but it still bothers me."

"What's weird is I started to feel like you and Adam were perfect for each other and that Mik and I had more in common. Personality and lifestyle anyway. Now he's changed. He's all about you. If you slit, God forbid, I don't think he'd slip back into his old ways. I think he'd mourn losing you for a good long time and then try to find someone to have a similar relationship with. You changed him."

When she heard about Jers, Lindsey raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Oh my God. I had no idea. That's crazy. I wonder why he's starting all this now. I mean, it's not unusual for guys to try and horn in other guys girls, but why is he doing this now? Maybe he's jealous? He better watch it. If other players don't kick his ass, Sims will. It wouldn't shock me if he was traded or booted."

"Ya Smokey." Lindsey giggled. "I love Smokey. We've talked about this before. He's funny, and charming in his own way. And he's a sharp business man as well as a Dragon. He's probably a superman in bed too. The universe has that kind of a sense of humor. I just never saw him as being interested in dating. Maybe because he never seemed interested in any women. Not he's with Jenny. We need to press her for a full report."

"So, you had fun in New York on that commercial. Have you considered doing another one, or any other acting?"

 Mindy laughed   and nodded,jeez..you  seen smokey without  a shirt. and the surfer   abs  and  legs that have to hold him on the  Board..  jenny, for god's sake, she wears those   short cargo shorts, and guys  look at her  legs  and run into walls.. I even saw Mik and Adam check her out. though  Adam is more like a Glance,  I gave  Mik a whap once  after  practice  when she went  running down the track to catch  Payne for a sound  Byte.. he just grinned at me!

 you know what is  funny , when you think of Jers? Maybe  he is the opposite of  Wade..right?  I mean Wade is all worried  about  the distraction of  having Girl friend.. maybe  jers  ..WANTS..the distraction, of having a Girl friend

 The Commerical  was fun, you know? But it was fun , because it was us 4 and a couple extras... I have to hawk some  things  at the beginning  or the end of a Show... like.. 'Now lets  cut to  our Heinz  Ketchup Highlights..' she  shook her head, I  never had the desire to act..public speaking was  fun..debates..when i found out sprtscastig was a thing, that's where my major went.. I think..but its  just ego, you know?
  But i think i could  pull off  a  small part or something , i don't think i could be a character..it would have to be some support thing..but?
  that's not  something i am chasing.. I went from..doing  Tennesse  game, and let face it..who the hell was even listening?.. i did Ladies B-ball, and of course  Volley ball.. i cover soem track and  filed.. then  i get the audition for   Titans. which was fun, until i saw how corrupt they were...I feelt like i had to take a shower  after that game , the dragons  played  there...now...and thanks to you.. I have  my own chir  in new jack ESPN.. i have  a big  say in the programming and the highlights..god that's so much fun..easy too..your team is scoring 100 points,  and  you defesne is making plays  and  you have a kicker chick doing on side kicks  and scoring TDs..harely?  we  could have  had a who 15 minute  segment..so? yeah
 , I'm good I didn't know i wanted  to be here, until i got here.. nothings taking me away.

In reply to Bronislau Nagurski (msg # 4):

 Alce smiled as they entered the restaurant," That is so sweet Bronko, now lets go have a great dinner."

 They entered the restaurant and Alice let Bronko lead the way.

Bronko waited to be directed to a table.  He made sure to pull out Alice's chair and asked her what she would like.  He ordered ravioli and a nice red wine, nothing too sweet.  "When I first moved to New Jack, I found this place.  It was nice, especially because it was walking distance from the townhouses.  I didn't have a car at the time."

  The  waiter   greeted   Alice and Bronko.... the special are  on the front,   the drinks in the back, , right after the  dessert?.. Free  refills on Coffee... do you have an order in mind

Bronko looks to Alice, "My dear?"

 Alice smiled was about to replied when the waiter arrived, Alice smiled and said " I will try the Mama's Italian homemade medley Special please." Alice was fine with the wine Bronko ordered and got a bottle.

" Thank you this is a very nice place." She smiled at Bronko and looked at the waiter and smiled to acknowledge him and the restaurant so far.

 After  taking Alice and bronko's   orders, the waiter  scurried off , leaving the menus , opened to the desserts.

In reply to mins (msg # 10):

"It's almost as if you were meant to be here." Lindsey smiled, setting her drink down. It was almost empty. "Hey, I'm going to order fried mozzarella. Will you help me eat them?" She waved to Tiffany, who came over to see what she wanted.

"Yeah, another round and I want and order of the mozzarella sticks. Extra sauce please. Thanks" Cleaning up all the empty plates and glasses, Tiffany checked if Mindy wanted anything additional before going off to place the order.

"So, I was thinking of getting moving closer to Dragon Studios. Something in the same complex as Sage. After the Superbowl, I'll only need to be at the stadium occasionally until pre-season. The one we have now is cheap enough that I might just keep it too, though. What are your plans? Of course, you can stay as long as you want, but if you plan on maybe moving in with Mik, that might influence what I do."

  Mindy Ordered another  soda  as she nodded to sharing the cheese  sticks. They she waggled her  finger back and forth..I spend  enough time at Mik's... I don't think i want to  'move in'.  if we are going to be around  each other that  much, i beet  have something to 'seal the deal'.

The waggling finger, became a pointing  finger,BUT... that doesn't mean you make  decisions based on me...  I canalways  find someplace   to rent, or even  buy, if  i Think NJN will keep me for the long haul. So?  You do what you need to do.. I'll be ok

Bronko put in his order for ravioli and thanked the waiter.  "Sometimes, these kinds of places are the best food and the best atmosphere.  The fancy places can think too much of themselves and you end up paying more for less, but here, you get a good meal at a good price.  And here I am with a great gal.  Nothing to complain about, eh?"

In reply to mins (msg # 18):

Lindsey shook her head. "First of all, you're my friend and my roommate. Of course I'm going to consult you. It would be wrong not to. And second, you have a say in what happens. You live there. I'd never leave you high and dry. Never."

"I don't have to make any decisions on that right now. My lease isn't up until September anyway. I just wanted to know hat you were thinking with regards to living arrangements and Mik. So, you aren't thinking of moving in with him and you aren't thinking marriage. No next level. You're just happy with things as they are? "

"So, if I did have a second place over by the studio, would you stay in this one still? Again, you're welcome to do so for as long as you want. I'm sure NJN will be keeping you. I mean, Carlton is your direct boss. That desk is yours forever if you want it."

   Mindy smiled as Lindsey talked.well?  I mean, I like my room, the place is pretty close  to NJN If you  got a second place,  you would have the first one was a 'getaway' or a crash pad if you needed to be at the studio?..of  course if that happen, i would tke over the Utilities... i still feel guilty just splitting  with you now?..seems unfair

 There is no hurry for Me  and Mik. Right?  heck, he already Met my Dad and Mom..OMG!.. My Mom wants to adopt  Mik and Adam?    For me?   , Nce  down to earth..well..as much as Nutballs can be down to earth. But we'll see what hapens  after the suoerbowl.. win or lose, its goign to be a massive impact on these players can they handle the Untimate failure...and can the handle the Ultimate  success... Then..i can see if i want to look at silverware patterns..

she gigged Those guys?  Mik  told be when they  moved down here, they left all thier   'silverware' aat thier apartment..he showed me a picture.. they  had  about  4  dozen plastic   spoons , forks and Knifes  from every  icecram and  burger joint in the  area God  only knows  what they used  for dishes.

she was  laughing a bit more...anyway? I can't see his  folks. he met mine..so..we'll see what happens.. who knows..what's lurking out there , ready to pounce on him?

"Hey, if you want to split the utilities, I won't say no. I mean, it's not necessary. I have to pay them either way, and it's not really that much. But if you want to, just kick in an extra $100 a month."

Tiffany brought the next round of drinks and the mozzarella sticks. Lindsey immediately put two sticks on her plate and bit into a third. It was hotter than expected, making her have to drink down some cold drink to cool her tongue.

"Ow. Careful with those. They're good, but still hot."

"Yeah, it doesn't matter who throws themselves at Mik. He's not going anywhere. Are you really worried about that? Seriously. You have nothing to fear. That guy is in love. I mean, unless you're having doubts. Are you?"

  Mindy  smiles, done!.  i will have an envelope on the   counter   tonight  before i go to bed . Its  only right, you know?

  putting  one on her plate she let it sit  for a bit. sipping  her soda.well?  Not  real worried , but there is a lingering  'chick' in my mind.  her name is Lydia? from Hamilton, from what i understand, she was like  , one of the  3 musketeers  with  Mik and Adam... from what Mik says, when we talk about 'pasts'.. she was more  into Mik then Adam,,Mik seemed insulted, because she though Adam was boring.. but i guess  Adam did there, what he does here.. bingeing on game film..staying late  after  practice  to work with that Jugs  Machine , thing....anyway? she's married  to some suit in Hamilton and has a kid, Mik was making noise  about inviting her  down for the superbowl..not thrilled about that..he says he has to ask Adam if that would be a good idea..so far , he hasn't.

  But hey?  she's way up there..and I'm down here,.. i don't see Mik wanting to hook up with someone who has a kid that's not his...and The Suit guy is  some kind of shipping guy on the great Lakes, so Lydia is set .

Lindsey nodded. "Oh yeah. I know all about her. Adam actually liked her too. From the way he talked about her, I felt a twinge also. It was just a thing with Adam and me. Lydia was special. Lark was beautiful. I guess he complimented me everyone else, but not too often to me. And he seldom talked about other women with any kind of attraction, so when he did with Lydia and Lark, it really bothered me." At that, she drained half her drink

"But yeah, Adam also said that Lydia was more into Mik, but apparently she was sleeping with both of them. Still, I wouldn't worry about her if she's married and has a kid. And it hasn't been that long. That kid can't be more than a year old. She's got to be all into mamma mode. That baby would be demanding everything from her. The last thing she's be thinking about is guys. But, even if she's up there pining for the good old days, Mik isn't that guy anymore. And if he was, married moms wouldn't be his thing."

"Think about it, he's surrounded by Dragonettes, women throw themselves at him, and still all he wants is you. Now as for whether she should come visit? I don't know. If you're uncomfortable with it then say so. I mean, if she wanted to come as a friend, she has the money with shipping guy, right? No need for Mik to 'bring her down'"

 Alice smiled, " Oh yes I agree, you know I love to cook, so I love going to home style places, those fancy places are ok for Special occasions but I like a family homecooked type restaurant all the time. Just feels more right." Alice smiled and waited for their wine.

  Mindy   quirked her Lips, Yeah? You're  right i guess.. I don't  want to be 'that chick', who tells  Mik he can't have a lady friend around? I think the  thing about her  coming is, Mik has  tickets?... Pooe Adam? Mik said he called  'his new york Mom' to see if she and the Guys wanted to come to the game, he would pay for everything and he had  tickets,,, The 'mom' said no, because they are booked for two Superbowl parties  there, she said it might  bring in more then they do all Month!..so?   Adam has tickets too. He'll give them to guys who ask..but he won't advertise it, because he doesn't  want to make some  guys feel Bad..Mik is the same way, which is how i know, i guess...

 Anyway..no big deal, abiout Lydia... You're  right, no matter what would happen, Mik isn't   going to mess with a married lady with a kid  at home.

Bronko just admired Alice in the low lighting. Sometimes it was best to just appreciate things and say nothing.

"I don't think would mess with another woman at all. I mean, if he would, then there's nothing you can do to stop him. You either trust him or you don't. If you do, just put it out of your head. If you don't, then - Lydia or no Lydia - this is already over."

"So, do you think Lacy is going to show up at the Superbowl? I guess the crawdad network hired her for some specials, but if she shows up as a sideline chick, I don't know what I'm going to do. Cici's going to be bad enough."

   Mindy shook her head..I checked the   Creds that were handed out..  She's be in Miami but  a Restraining order says she can't  be   jedia day... They found a Loop hole  where she can be in the  Box  with the   'hotDang' locals , and she'll be adding to the play by play for them.. but as
 far as the network feeds. all she can do is watch.

  you feel like dessert?

   one of the two  suits  across the way came over.Excuse me..  I'm   Bass  Nilson.. that's  me Mate over there  shoveling in the  pasta. the dark haired guy smiled a  bit  wryly .They sent us  down from  Hamilton way?.. I notcied you two  are the Girls of the two names  from our  neck of the woods..   Mik G and that bronk  fellow.. I was wonderting, if  you have time, maybe  give us some insight?  were  bpoth Bleedin' new up there, Just came over  frot   Yorhsire way an' got a  Job  covering the CFL.. But  the dragom  Hbvae..4..well..had  4? Canadian Players..now i guess its   3?

 he shrugged  a bit,we  could buy yer  Tucker? if that would help? he pointed at the plates.

Lindsey seemed somewhat relieved that Lacy wouldn't be in the feeds. If the former Pats beat was up in the Saints' owner's box, there as nothing she could do about that, but at least she would be out of sight.

"Sure. I can handle some dessert. The caramel brownie and icecream is really good, and shareable. It's super rich too, so better to split it."

After they placed the dessert order, a Canadian man came over asking for some insight into presumably the former CFL players. Despite having been around Mik, Lindsey wasn't quite understanding his vernacular. From what she pieced together, he and his friend back at his table were some kind of reporters? Apparently she and Mindy were recognized, and a Tucker was a meal.

"Um, I'm not quite following." Lindsey looked to Mindy for help. "You want information on Mik, Adam, and Bronko? Who do you work for and what kinds of insights are you looking for?" Noobs
This message was last edited by the player at 04:52, Wed 01 May.

  The   guy's  hands  went in his pockets and she  hunched   his shouldersNo?  if  I be  knowing that, I wouldn't have   ta  ask now would   I...  We  got Mik 'ere, and the big bloke , bronko..ya? an' the other one is the  Little guy.. Bomb..right..ya?  so.. what were 'oping, is  ya  could get a bit us  a .., his left had  came out of  his  pocket and  waved a bit,wee.. bit  o' insight..like.. are they Good  Blokes   or wankers?  An'   do  the other blokes get along  with them, an all?.. may  some  special food they like..ya?  Women always like to her of  famous Bloke's likin' food.

 I mean?  The Bleedin' dragons, jolly  well  wiped the floor  with the rest  of the league..'eh?.. So i guess,,maybe  some highlight s about what thry do good.. I mean.. we can compare it  to  our  Football..but, most folks   won't understand the Numbers  as  much..Still. got  to give them  some Proper Numbers , so's  the  football die hards  can get somethin' to chew on..eh?-

Lindsey hoped her expression wasn't showing her confusion. It took long enough for Bass Nilson to come around to what he really wanted, but he still didn't say who he worked for. Not that it really mattered. Nothing he was asking for was a secret. It was more lifestyles of the Rich and Famous kind of thing. And unless he was a good actor, Bass' accent was Canadian not Creole.

"Well, Mr.Nilson, I guess I don't mind helping you out, but my friend and I were having a quiet night. If she doesn't mind, sure. Otherwise, it'll have to be another time. Maybe tomorrow late morning"

    Bass, nodded he reached out his hand,Rightthen.. I toddle of to me mate and hop  i have some food left..eh? We're gonna pop around to the Dragon's Nest for practcie. hope to see you there,,'eh? Thank you for  your time, I didn't mean  to step in in ... enjoy  yer night..

After  hand  shakes ..Bass walked off  and  stopped  at his  table, his hands  coming-out of his  pockets  with a frustrated  show.. The waitress  can  and he talked to her, giving her  a few  extra  bill...a  moment later she came out  with more pasta so he could have something to eat!

"No, I don't think you understand. I'll be on a plane tomorrow. You can call me. I'll be flying for five hours, so I'll have plenty of time." She handed him a card. "Call around around 11 or 12"

After Bass went back to his table, Lindsey turned to Mindy. "I was actually waiting for you to chime in, but it's fine. He can call me tomorrow if he has questions."

 Mindy watched him go and have a  head shake as he bereted his friend and had to order  new food. They'll see me at the 'nest'... nshe  had a short Giggle.

 so?  These   guys come from England, hoping to get  Jobs in CFL  sports, and they  send  them  down  here for the Biggest  championship game inn the whole world?..Hey?  Don't get me wrong, i was sent Local  'Cotton Queen' fets  to  judger   potato sack races and  report on how many times   Clay Hogsworth  on the ATV hill climbing event... But this ..This is the superbowl?  You can't   tell me someone in  Canada  wasn't drooling at the chance to  Fly  down  here  an soak up the  sights. Of Course> they may be the only folks hgere from Hamilton, there  might be a group from the  whole  maple flavored  country  down here, we haven't met yet...I... I guess they would be lumped in  with those  folks  from the Bayou, at the Lair?

 I'll get Jenny or  someone  to  ask the   Gate Guards who is 'out of country"...but i'm thinking  we wo0n't see 90% of them until  Media day....now? Dessert?

  The waiter  Brings Bronko and Alices  food  and drinks...there are servers  around, and the  counter  can be seen from here? You need  anything, wave. Otherwise  I'll return in about 15 minutes to see if you need  drinks  refilled.

Tiffany brought the dessert and some fresh drinks. Lindsey looked at the portion size and groaned. "Oh my God, they always bring so much. I bet they think they're doing me a favor by bringing the biggest pieces and extra ice cream, but I have to fit into some slink-wear over the next two days, and I'll be on camera." She cut a third of the brownie off and barely two spoonfuls of ice cream, moving them over to her plate. "If you love me, you'll eat the rest. Or I guess we can put it in the freezer at the apartment."

Cutting off a small portion of brownie with the edge of her fork, she added a dash of the caramel and ices cream and sucked it off the fork. "Mmmhhhh... So decadent. At least I can indulge this sin a little. I left poor Prince high and dry last night, but that means I also left myself wanting. And then all that fun pretending Sage and I double teamed Adam...." She sighed. "It's okay. I'll live. I'll just sleep in Wade's or Adam's jersey and have nice dreams"

 Mindy  giggles a bit, well? If the slink wear doesn't draw them in close  enough to get a  good  view  of the Goods., then  you wasted your money.

 she   took a  piece and  a nibble , noddled her   head.not  bad?  I can count on , one hand , how many times i have been to Applebees. We  had so many  'Mom and Pop places that had great food  and a good place to hang out.

 then she  Giggled  again, when Lindsey said about the Jerseys.....but...'could you have  both'

"I think we are good for now, thank you so very much."

Bronko politely waits for Alice to start before he digs in.

Lindsey covered her mouth as a sharp laugh burst free and became a giggle fit at Mindy's 'you can have both' quip. "Oh my God!" More giggles. "Yeah. Thanks. That was.... Thanks for that. You're such a naughty girl. That would be amazing. I'm going to toss and turn all night now thinking of that. Of course, I really can't. I mean, Wade might, but Adam would never. Or were you just talking about jerseys?" She finished her drink as she fanned herself.

"This is my favorite restaurant, honestly." She said after some dreamy-eyed drinking. "There are places with better food, better drinks, better service, etc. But this place is just friendly and has a good atmosphere. I love Karaoke night. They know me here, but there's enough of a crowd to be a bit anonymous. I'm just comfortable."

Lindsey finished her bit of dessert, then wiped her mouth with a napkin and finished her last drink.

"Okay, no more. I'm stuffed and I have a light buzz. It's perfect. This time tomorrow night, I'll be in LA at a pre-Emmy party. And yes, the dresses were carefully selected to draw attention without being over the top. The goods will be on display in perfect packaging, adorned with a smile. I can't wait."

  Mindy   was  giggling  at   Lindsey giggling.wow... you...you really think like that! she  chuckled.

  Alright. Lets get going...   she waved   for the check.

  The server  came over,I'm Sorry Ladies, we were aske d , not to tell you, until you were  leaving. But the English Gentleman there picked up your check? They said it was a 'professional courtesy ' and you were both to have a wonderful night.

she motioned to the table, the to men raised coffee  cups ( tea cups?) to them, and went back to eating.

As Lindsey and Mindy, they wrangled over who would pick up the check. It was settled when Lindsey begrudgingly agreed to let Mindy take it, but when Tiffany brought it over, she informed them that Bass had already insisted on covering them. She looked over to see him and his companion raise their coffee cups. She smiled a thank you, waving as she and Mindy left the building.

Once they got out to the car, Lindsey fired off a text to Sage.

To Sage: Going home to finish packing. My car is still at the studio, so I'll have Mindy drop me there in the morning before she heads to the Lair.

To Lindsey's Apartment

 Alice smiled at the waiter and replied," Thank you." Alice then began eating her amazing meal smiling at Bronko. " It is going to get very hectic pretty fast, I hope the team can stay together, I really think you will win the Super Bowl easily."

"I don't see winning as an issue, but the big personalities clashing after the win, that will be interesting.  I know how good we all are, we know how to win, how to take the game to a level no one else is ready for, but people get in their own way when their egos get in the way.  I try to keep my ego in check, as I know I am one injury away from having no job.  This meal is exceptional!"

Bronko an Alice enjoyed a wonderful meal.  "I don't think I have room for dessert." He laughed.

 Alice listened to Bronko and she also hoped the team could keep their egos in check until after the Super Bowl. " Yeah who knows what is going to happen with this bunch after you guys win, Heather has been doing pretty good keeping herself in check, and I really like Megan she seems to be a grounding force for Heather. I am so proud of her and you Bronko you do love the game and work hard to be your best."

"I am a farm boy, you work hard, you do everything you can to bring in the harvest, or you go broke.  Seen a lot of farms go under because of people not putting in the work.  I never want that to be me."

 Alice smiled and replied," No it will never be you, you have worked too hard for this, all of you have. It will be great when you bring the championship here to New Jack they are so hungry for this the fans are."

"They are hungry, but after this dinner, I won't be able to eat for a while, maybe even an hour."    Bronko laughed.  "Well, it is time to go get some rest.  Practice will get harder tomorrow, I think.  We are getting closer to the big game, and we want to shine as the whole world watches."

"Well, the time between now and the game is going to be busy.  We can do one or two watch parties, if you like.  Next week we won't get much time together.  Do you have your travel and lodging set up?"

(( Saturday Morning, after  AFC Title game ))

   Mindy  Followed  Sage and Lindsey so they wouldn't have to worry about dropping her off , She would    pull in behind them, and wait  by the trunk of thier  car  while they got out.

The diner was called Aunt Mama's Breakfast Diner, and it was on a side street off the main boulevard. it was only open for breakfast and Lunch, starting at 4AM. The last customers are let in at 1PM. The breakfast menu was more like a buffet list. Everything was home-cooked to order except for the gravy, which was prepared in bulk ahead of time. Breakfast cost $10 per plate, and the customer could ask for whatever they wanted from the list. Overall it was a good deal, if you could get in. Luckily the Dragon ladies arrived early enough to get a seat.

"This place is so cute." Lindsey said as she took a seat. All the tables had kitchen table cloths with various patterns but all matched the baby blue floral general design. "I can't believe I've never been here before. How long has this been here?"

The waitress came and brought waters and dropped off a pot of coffee. Cream and sweeteners were already on the table, with flavored sweeteners available upon request. Lindsey prepared herself a cup as she ordered two eggs over medium with wheat toast and two strips of bacon.

"So, have you guys heard about what's going on between Babs and Tracy? It's ridiculous. Tray has a stick up her ass about Babs because Lou hired her without consultation and probably because the guys like her so much. She tried to reassign her to some busy work, but Adam insisted she keep doing the taping. It's so bad that Babs usually sits with me so she has a friendly and peaceful lunch. It amazes me that Tracy could be such a bitch."
This message was last updated by the player at 20:00, Sat 11 May.

Sage took her seat on Lindsey's left side but moved her chair away a few more inches to give her left-handed friend some room. "Yeah, I don't know how long it's been here. I just discovered it. With all the new business coming in to New Jack, we'll get all kinds of cool new places opening. the food here is really good."

She also ordered eggs and bacon but all got some breakfast potatoes to go with it.

"That's so awful." Sage responded. "I've seen those same kinds of snitty feuds on movie sets. The makeup artists are the worst. Especially the women. But they never let that interfere with doing the work. No director would put up with that for even a second."

   Mindy got coffee and  some  Raisin, English muffins. with  jelly.

   This is a nice lace? I don't think i could stop here, except on a day off?. Its really comfortable.

 when the  talk about Babs  , Mindy shook her head....I didn't know Babs  until about a month ago, obviously . I did notice her  being around the guys. Like  Adam. Mik and Ben, more then the other  guys. she's the first on to the  huddle when the  Timeouts  are  called, she giggles,I'ver seen her ignore   Duke  and the other  and go straight to  Mik and Adam first with  the  squirt bottles , the  hold the carrying  case for  other to take out themselves

  Mik has that bad  knee?, and  Rayburn  tapped him up..Mik complained  about it, tracy  waved him off, and he  was hurt..Adam had    Babs  tape him up after that  and he swears  by her taping...of  course?  Since Adam recommended her,  Mik would anyhow..If  Adam  said  Satan should be out OC... Mik would agree!

 This is just , my take? But there are alot of teams looking for head trainers.. tracy might be looking for a better City, or more money. hard to take credit for  things that  a trainer....you didn't even  hire..is doing. Mik pointed out one time as we  watched the replay  of the game on his
 DVR?.. You see tracy. a couple times. But when the  cameras   cut to the sidelines,  and focus  on Ben, Mik and  Adam sitting there talking over
 stuff.. there is bad  with a drink  bottle or  tightening up  face masks. Mik  said  once, that  Wills would be  100%  now if Babs  would have taped him, rather  then Rayburn... Adam will tape himself  first, if he has to!
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:05, Sat 11 May.

"So, this keeps coming up between me and Adam." Sage piped in. "Dragon Studios. I haven't heard anything from Paulo about the upcoming filming schedule. Nothing about casting. I heard, but indirectly, that the fantasy story was to be a pirate story, but that's all. I also heard he wanted hooplah with Superbowl to pass, but shit, there's so much we could do. I mean, like we could have at least gotten advance copies of the scripts. This is insane. It's never done like this."

 Mindy gave a shrug,i don't know much about  show business , outside of the studio and Filed work, and toss in interview  things..right? But...the people i talked  with at The Amota's  party are  all in on Paulo. One guy was...to me? jealous ? He told  me that the only reason Paulo does  better then most  people, is  his  'attack' style  , of movie making..here how he  explained it to me...

 she  held  up a salt  shaker, This is Lindsey..she is...um... LT  Hotchick.. she gets  a base set of lines and  she has to improve from there, as the diertor  and  such  tell everyone one whats  going On.. Lt  Hotchick, because  part of the story now, and  Lindsey ...IS..Lt  Hotchick.. every   bit of dialogue, other the  the  base  concepot  cpomes  from Lindsey..so?  If Lindsey quits the show, or is  fired.. LT  hot chick  gets 'sent away'  or is  killed off..because? No one could ever  be LT Hotchick again

  Now?  that  Guy that came to the game   last time.. Lets say he is  one of the bigger  characters...ummm... Commander  Abbs?..he does  the same thing...but? Fansdon't like commander Abbs  as   much as they like  LC Pecs?...so... as the Next movie ..LC Pecs  gets more time the  Commander Abbs

  So... I asked  Lizzy...who?  seems to have a Thing    for Mik...and  at the same time is grateful for Adam  to point out ..just..how..easy..it would be  for Lizzy to  find a good  source  of attention.... anyway. as  we chatted  about boyfriends.. i asked  'who does this work ?"... she   laughed  and  said..'it  depends on the actors...That's why alot of Big Names  won't  work  with Paulo, because they can't demand   only green M&Ms in the  trailer..they can't show up  drunk or high, and  they best not treat the crew like slaves..the Converse part is,  anyone who is  a decent actor, will take the chance to be in his  projects, because they always come out on top....."

she chews a bit of Muffin...Lilly Logan?  she was the star..or at least..lead character in  Paulo's  sci-fi Spy movie.. "Star Dusted"...she wanted to work with him, here..on one of the projects, But she is in Pinewoods, in England shoot Bond 43? she's locked  in for the next year..BUT..nbo one  knew who she was unit she  a 'Gabby Goods' in Star Duster.

 works both ways  though?. Peter Evens. the  daytime  star, In 'Restless beds" for soap opera time?..he  started out  as a  Detective  fir Paulo in his  cop movie  " shooting on the Run"..but? he couldn't handle the way paly  runs the  productions?..and  he failed..got  bad  reviews from Fans..Paulo doesn't give one damn about  critics...he calls them 'paid assassins '..but he does care about the fans, because they pay to see the  productions..

she grins...sounds like  preseaon to me? You show up, you get the rundown, you get the base  call, the run the plays?  You perform good on the field, you get more reps? you don't. some on from the bench comes in..

"Well you seem to know more than we do." Lindsey said. "I guess I should have pinned Paulo down at the party. I suppose I can still do that when I get back. Actually, Sage, you have free days right now. And you know better what questions to ask."

"LA is three hours behind us. So, we fly for a little over four hours, bet then we wind back our watches. When we land it will only be a but over an hour later. I know we should probably rest, but it would be nice to get to see some sights. Walk of fame, the Hollywood sign, the Chinese theater... I guess there's a risk of trying to do too much, but at least maybe go to see one of those things."

 Mindy shurgs,I just have a  BF  other chicks  like, so i can talk to them and they  think they are being 'nice to me' while  wondering  what Mik does to make me happy?

 well?  You guys  are goign to the 'pregamne party' right?  so it depends on how long you stay and whom you leave with! she giggles.I don't even know how far away from  the Chinese theater you are , I mean, the  Venue they are using this   year is  right  in a hot  spot ?

"Well, the party's at might. We'll also have a lot of daylight to walk around LA. We can get  cab to Walk of fame and just walk from there to whatever we can see. But, yes, it's the pregame tonight. I'm not sure what you mean by 'leave with', though. I'll be sleeping alone. Lindsey can make her own choices."

"Huh?" Lindsey's eyes popped at her friend "Why are we talking about this?" There was no way to comment without digging a deeper hole or lying, so she went back to the previous discussion. Taking out her phone, she looked up a map of the area.

"So, we're staying at Loews Hollywood Hotel." She used her thumb and forefinger to zoom in. "It's like a two-minute walk from the Walk of Fame and the venue for the awards. The Hollywood bowl is right up the street and the sign is just a bit further. Carlton did a perfect job as usual getting us in the heart of it all. Oh my God, I'm so excited."

The food arrived and Lindsey started eating in her usual methodical way, eating slowly and taking small bites.

"I'm going to find a dumb tourist shop and buy the most fan-girlish souvenir t-short too. Big sun glasses, a costume feather boa, bright lipstick. When I come back I'm gong to look ridiculous in all the swag."

  Mindy Giggled...Im thought you already wore that outfit!

she  nibbled  and  drank her  coffee.Jenny is all on her  own, other then Bob and Bill,, she gets to be a Big Girl  for another hour or so,

"Well, no, not that exact outfit. I haven't even created it yet. It's just concept art in my head. You'll see. Maybe I'll wear it to my dinner date with Prince on Monday. Montana seafood. I'm still fascinated by that concept."

"Jenny does good. " Lindsey nodded. "She's a good writer and knows how to ask decent questions. I mean, it's not like most of the sideline reporters actually dig deep, so the bar is pretty low. Yes, it's good to ask simple open ended questions sometimes. This audience wants to hear more from the players and coaches than from the reporter, but not always. Someone needs to challenge the BS sometimes, especially with all the hostile shenanigans coming from opposing teams and even the NFL. Anyway, jenny just needs to be more comfortable in front of the camera."