LEN BIAS: CROSSOVER
A novel
By: Michael D. McClellan | September 19, 2010
The 911 operator answers on the first ring and speaks quickly. Brian Tribble tries to focus on the words, but the river of cocaine rushing through his system makes that impossible. He's slurring in the direction of Terry Long and David Gregg, talking over them, trying to get the address straight. He stares at the limp body on the bed. He stares at the cocaine on the folding table. There are voices outside the door now, belonging to Keith Gatlin and Jeff Baxter. Tribble finally closes his eyes and tries to focus.
"...1103 Washington Hall...it's an emergency...it's Len Bias...he just went to Boston...and...he needs some assistance..."
"What are you talking about?"
"Huh?"
"What are you talking about?"
The 911 operator's voice is loaded with skepticism. Impatient. He clearly thinks that this is a prank, something worked up by a bunch of rowdy college kids with nothing better to do. Long and Gregg are pacing, talking, confused. There is pounding on the door, and then the sound of concern coming from the other side.
"I'm talking about...uh, someone needs...Len Bias needs help..."
"Well it doesn't matter what his name is, what's the problem?"
"He's not breathing right."
"What's your name?"
"My name is Brian."
"Brian what?"
"Tribble."
"Tribble?"
"Yes sir."
The 911 operator begins pounding on his keyboard.
"It's Len Bias...you have to get him...back to life...there's no way he can die. Seriously, sir...please come quick..."
