"Yeah, well, that's what I'm here to talk about," he said, lowering his voice."Yeah, well, that's what I'm here to talk about," he said, lowering his voice. "See, the fans are warm to you right now, and I know you can pull a good crowd. Most of the singles titleholders are booked up for a while, though--" "Then why are you talking to me? I'm tired of waiting." He held out his hands in a "keep it down" gesture, then leaned closer. "Let me finish. The singles belts are busy, but I can probably swing a tag team match with the state titlists. If you're interested, that is." "Tag team?" Tom shifted on his feet, a little surprised. "I don't have a partner." "Find one. Unless you'd rather--" "I'll get a partner. And I'll take the shot." Harris gave the kind of smile Bradley associated with used car salesmen, just after they'd locked their jaws on a choice deal. "Great. Just understand that I can't wait around forever. I need you and your partner to sign the papers by next Tuesday." "No problem." They shook hands; Harris' palms were characteristically damp. "I'll be waiting. You got my card." As steamimg water beat down on his body, Bradley considered his options. Being new to the area, he hadn't acquainted himself with many wrestlers, leaving him with a small pool to choose from. The ones he knew were committed to other partners, or just not good enough to credibly challenge for the title. The champions, a pair of intimidating masked men called the Marauders, were rampaging through the region like a force of nature, and the chance of generating a successful team strategy with a near-complete stranger was slim. Troubled with these thoughts, he re-dressed and left the arena, to the private parking facility to the rear. He stopped next to a weather-beaten Mazda and fumbled around for his keys. The thought of a title match pleased him for more than just professional reasons; after all, he'd make more money from a championship loss than he would from a win over a lesser-quality singles opponent. He might even be able to buy a newer used car after the bout. |