Forever and Ever;;59

I woke up too early the next morning. But I couldn't help it, excitement was brewing in the pit of my stomach, and I was about to explode. At least that's what I thought it was. I was truthfully exhausted from everything last night, but I couldn't seem to fall back asleep.


Jimmy groaned when I sat up. "Honestly babe, do you ever sleep?" He turned over to face the wall, he obviously knew that answer himself. I laughed and got up to warm up the shower. As that was getting ready I opened up the porch door, trying to see what the weather was like, to see what I should wear today. The hot air immediately hit my face. It had to have been at least 85 degrees out today. So, I settled on a the shortest jean shorts I had, and a new Stanley Cup Champions shirt I had got last night, it was white.



I washed my hair and dried it, pulling all of my hair back into a ponytail, except my bangs. I didn't bother to put much makeup on, it would all be off with the heat and such soon anyways. I put on my Champions hat, and went back out into the living room. Jimmy was just now coming out of the bedroom behind me. He one handily grabbed my waist and pulled me closer to him. "Morning." I smiled, "Gooooood Morning!" I broke free of his grasp, and went out in the living room to plug in the X-box. I searched for NHL 08, but couldn't seem to find it in my collection of games. Then I had remembered that Aaron took it over to his place.


I didn't feel like walking over there to get it, my foot had been bothering me lately, so I called him instead. He answered on the third ring, and sounded excited.
"What up?!"

"Aaron, you had better bring my game back here right now!"

"Uh, I think I gave it to..." He trailed off and there was a long pause.

"I don't care who has it, get it back." I didn't mind that he used my stuff, but I never got it back or he gave it away. I didn't feel like arguing with him, so I just hung up. He would be over soon anyway. Him and Meech were riding with us to the Joe. We were all meeting up there first.
I looked at the clock on my cell phone, and it was 11:45, and we needed to be at the Joe by noon.

It didn't take Jimmy long to get ready, so we were out the door within the next few minutes. Aaron and Derek were already waiting by the car,
***

Jimmy had told me earlier that we would be riding in a Ford Truck instead of a float. So I wasn't surprised to see at least 30 Ford Trucks parked in front of Joe Louis. Jimmy, Derek, Aaron, and I all hoped in the back of a bright red one. We all waved and smiled at fans as we drove down Woodward Avenue. Aaron had one a huge pair on sunglasses. Way to big from his face, and every time I looked at him I couldn't help but laugh.
"Take those damn glasses off before I die!"
"No way! You're just jealous..." He ruffled his hair in the slight breeze and turned away.
Jimmy then put his arm around me and kept smiling at the fans.

By the end of the route I remembered one thing I had forgotten. Suntan lotion. I was definitely going to burn, I always did. Then, we all went on stage for speeches. Alot of the guys didn't have anything planned, so this wouldn't take long. Ken and Mick were the first to start, and they talked about what a great team we were and how we deserved to win more than anyone else, and so on.

The guys went up in pairs, Aaron and Jimmy went up together, said a few things but sat back down quickly. Aaron sat back down next to me, "Your getting really red you know that?"
"Yeah, I burn easily.."
He sniffed the air around him, "Do you smell...bacon?!"
"Oh my god, you are such an ass. I'm not going to smell like bacon!"
"Well, your gunna look like it then!" I shook my head even though it was probably true.
Huds came up to the podium next, and got the crowd cheering "Let's go Red Wings" but what was coming out of his mouth sounded more like "Vet's go Ved Vings." The crowd was cracking up, and so was the team.



[Well, this update was sooner than expected, I've been kinda busy lately. But, I have been in an amazing mood ever since the Wings won the Winter Classic. I was about ready to pull my hair out after the first period though. But it got better so that's good. Anyone watch? Wanna talk about it let me know!]

Forever and Ever;;58

I finally found Morgan, who had said she was sitting with Val's parents the whole time. I could tell she had been crying- a usual for her.

"Did you see the pictures yet? I had her show them to me." She pointed to a nearby photographer.

I shook my head, "Nope."

"Oh, they are soo funny. I cried though. You and Aaron in the first one, just hilarious. "

I tried to think about back to the first one they took.. but, there were to many thoughts in my head right now, I would just have to wait til' I saw it.



I finally spotted my dad in the corner, and ran over to him.

"Daddy!" I screamed. "We did it." Oh god, here came the tears.

He smiled, to afraid to think he would cry too. It was hard for him to admit, but he was a big baby.

"We can talk later hun, go have some fun."

"Oh, ok..."

Aaron and Brett caught my attention from across the room. Aaron's eyes were halfway closed and they were both slurring their words. "This fuggin rocks!" Brett yelled. He was holding up a bottle, that I'm pretty sure he had finished it off himself. I shook my head, "I think you guys better get dressed. Don't you wanna get home?" I tried my best not to laugh at the confused looks on their faces. They nodded their heads, getting that they understood.



While the guys were changing I sat with Morgan, chatting about the game and how we almost went into overtime for the second game in a row. I tried to blow it off, since it didn't matter now, but we could be going back home right now, without the cup.

My phone vibrated in my pocket, so I took it out and looked at the caller ID. It was Jimmy. I looked around, wondering why he didn't just tell me to come over himself, without calling. I shrugged my shoulders and picked up anyway.
"What?"
I could tell he was laughing slightly, "Where the hell are you? I can't see you anywhere."
"Uh, I'm sitting with Morgan, close to Val's locker you dumbass...." I laughed.
"Oh well, come over here. I can't celebrate with out you!" And then he hung up.
I shook my head, but what he said but a smile on my face. "What is it?" Morgan asked, now standing very close to Val.
"Oh, its Jimmy. I'll be right back."
I pushed through crowds of people, finally making my way over to his locker.

He wrapped his arms tightly around me before I could say anything. "I love you, more than anything in the whole world." He whispered in my ear. I was surprised, not knowing why he needed to tell me this now, but it didn't matter.

I played with his hands, "I love you too..." I smiled, showing all of my teeth. He smiled to match mine. There was nowhere else I would rather be than right here. We stood that way for a few minutes, before Babcock came in and told us it was time to go. Going home made me happy, but I really wanted to stay in this moment forever. Jimmy zipped up his bag and held his hand out to me, "You ready to go?" I shook my head yes, and took his hand. I took one last look at the now trashed locker room, knowing this moment would be with me forever.
***

We all went to Cheli's when we got home last that night. Jimmy and I didn't stay long though, after a few beers we went home. I wanted to stay longer, nights like these don't come often. Tomorrow was the parade and we should be getting at least of few hours of sleep. That wasn't going to come easy though.

Jimmy threw his stuff down next to the love seat and sat on the couch, flipping on the TV. I came and sat next to him, watching a recap of the game on FSN.
"You know," He looked over at me "I still feel like I have some..unneeded energy." I was getting his drift.
"Oh really? Well you should go take a run or something."
He leaned over and kissed me roughly. "Actually, I had something else in mind." I raised my eyebrows, "Oh really, and that is....?" I tried my best to play it cool, and act like I had no idea what he was talking about, even though I knew all to well. "Oh, I think you know." He winked and shot me a mischievous grin.
He placed his hand on my lower back, throwing me over his shoulder like it was nothing. Headed for our bedroom. "Well then, you'll know sooner later."

Forever and Ever;;57

I was finally able to meet Jimmy's parents. They seemed like amazing people. And you could tell they loved him alot. Hid Dad, Jim was sweet, not very talkative, but he knew his stuff. Jimmy looked just like him. His mom however, was talkative and very sweet. I was just hoping that I made a good impression. I talked to them for a while, explaining myself to them. It was hard to not notice my last name, so of coarse we talked about that.



As they were bringing the cup out I decided I would talk to Aaron's parents. I knew it hurt them to see me with Jimmy, they had always thought Aaron and I were perfect together. But I assured them we were still great friends. We talked for a while, until I stopped paying attention.



Each time the guys lifted the cup, my heart skipped a beat. After losing last year, this made up for it. The smiles on their faces made me amazingly happy. But I couldn't help but glance over at the Pens. Some of them were sitting against the boards and others had already gone in the locker room. I searched along the boards for Sid's 87 and finally found him. We weren't to far away from each other. I was close enough to tell his head was down and he wasn't talking to anyone. I closed my eyes and sighed, I was going to have to find something to say to him.



I made my way over to him as best as I could, and sat down next to him. He glanced up at me quickly, then back down.

"You played really great Sid.."

He didn't say anything. "You practically beat us there in the end.." I was trying to get him to say something, anything. But he didn't. So I sat there, and I waited.



"You seriously don't know how it feels to lose anything do you?" He finally said. I had never seen that look on his face before. And honestly, it scared me. But I wasn't afraid to say what I felt.

"You know Sid. I've lost alot."

"Yeah right. Something that meant everything to you? Something you worked so hard for? I don't think so.."

"No, but I've watched my dad come so close to winning it so many times. You don't even know, these guys are my family. I cried for days last year when we came so close. Don't act like you know shit about me, you seriously don't."

He looked at me like I was crazy. But he obviously didn't know anything about me. I was pissed.

"Thanks for ruining my night by being an ass. I know your upset, but I was just trying to help."

"I'm-" I stood up and walked away. I had better things to do than argue with him. I made it back to Jimmy's parents just before he lifted the cup. It was his first, so that made it special.

A little later we headed into the locker room. Val and Kronner were holding up a copy of the Detroit Free Press. The front of it read "CHAMPIONS" I quickly read through it, just getting the main topics. I guess back home the Joe was packed. Fans went crazy when they watched us win on the Jumbo Tron. I was definitely ready to get back to Detroit and celebrate. But there was still a little bit of celebrating to do here, and I wasn't going to hold back.

Forever and Ever;56

The first period was just....okay. We were winning 1-0 by a wrist shot from Rafalski, We could have been doing better. We all headed back into the locker room. I talked to Jimmy about nothing in particular, he wasn't talkative anyway. I noticed his hand shaking, god was he nervous. I looked at him, and he finally met my gaze. I smiled and pecked his lips. He flinched away, as I noticed I has accidentally bit his bottom lip. I looked surprised, "What was that for?" I laughed, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to." He still stared at me, expecting me to say something more. I moved around in my seat like a little kid, and it made him laugh. "I guess I'm just really nervous. "


He shook his head, "Yeah me too."


"I could tell." I pointed to his hand, which was still shaking.


I kissed him one more time, this time managing not to bite his lip. "Ew PDA!" Aaron screeched as he walked past. I punched his in the shoulder.





This was one of the times I missed Stevie the most. He always had something to say at this time. As where Nick was more of a quiet guy and kept to himself. But that was a whole different story, and it wasn't time for that anyway.





I guess I was caught up in my own thoughts because everyone was filing out the door for the second period before I knew it. I quickly got up and ran out behind them. When the Pens stepped back onto the fresh ice, their fans went crazy. The place was packed, I couldn't fine one empty seat even if I tried. And then there was our fans. Who had came all the way from Detroit. There was a few of them, scattered around in different spots. I let the guys warm up while I talked to the press. They wanted to know everything, but I told them practically nothing. I didn't even know why they talked to me anymore, but I found it amusing.





Eight minutes into the period Val scored a sweet backhand from Sammy and Kronwall. We were doing good... for now. The game was getting more intense as time ticked away. Most of the guys were exhausted already, I sat there wishing I could do something. We took one to many penalties and the Penguins took advantage of that. I groaned when Malkins slap shot when in the back of the net. Sidney looked amazingly happy when he skated past me, giving me a small smile. I looked away, acting like I didn't see him. And that was all for the second period.

I kept trying to get ahold of Morgan, I wasn't sure where she was but I knew she had came on the trip. She wouldn't have missed this game for anything. I kept calling her phone over and over again, but she never answered. She probably couldn't hear it over all the noise.

Into the third Ozzies goal tending was making me nervous. He was doing well... for now. I always thought he cracked under pressure but I would never say that to him. We were way ahead in shots, and the Pens seemed to be lagging. Our guys were slowing down also, but I tried my best to keep them going. I wasn't sure if it was really helping, but whatever. Hank scored not long after Babs told the guys to "Move their asses"



Time ticked away as the period was going by fast, there hadn't been any penalties yet. Jimmy kept counting face offs, which we were also ahead in. My heart was pumping faster as there was only two minutes left in the period, but the refs called a penalty on Huds "Hooking", yeah right. Now we had to pull this off. Babcock told the guys his plans and sent them back out. I guess his talk didn't help much. Hossa scored not long after on a slap shot. I kept trying to tell myself it was okay.

The last forty seconds were chaotic, we needed to clear the puck- and now. Hossa and Sid came speeding towards the net. Hossa tried to back hand it in, Ozzie came out as far as he could and went to stop it with his arm. The whole time by heart didn't beat once. It skitted across the line just as time expired. I could tell that it wasn't a goal. My jaw dropped and the final buzzer rang.

Ozzie shook off his equipment as all the guys jumped on top of him. I stood by the bench, letting them have their moment. Aaron came up from behind me and put a Stanley Cup Champions hat on my head, "You're part of this team to you know."
"I know, but I can't really skate over there too well with a cast on, so I'll just wait."
He looked at me like I was crazy, and picked me up like it was nothing. He skated over and put me down next to Jimmy, who was surrounded by his friends and family. I looked up at him, a huge smile on my face. I stood on my toes and kissed him like crazy, and everything around us seemed like a blur.

Forever and Ever;;55

I took the elevator back up to the our floor. I hoped that they all weren't back yet. No such luck. When I stepped of the elevator, there was one of the worst possible people. Aaron. He quickly saw me and came over. I hid the sweatshirt behind me and tried my best to act normal.

"Where are the guys?" I asked him.

"Downstairs at the arcade, where have you been?"

"Oh, I was just outside." I searched for my room key in my back pocket.

"What do you have there?" He pointed to the hoodie.

I heard the elevator ding, but didn't pay much attention until I felt someone tugging at my hands. Aaron mouthed something, so I turned around. Meech. He pulled the hoodie out of my hands and ran down the hallway, I ran after him and Aaron followed. Be ran down tons of rooms, and the farther we ran, the more out of breath I got. I couldn't believe I was even running, my cast wasn't giving me any problem. It felt like it was back to normal. It must have been healing well. We came up to a turn, Derek whipped right around it, as I did. I heard a 'thud' but didn't bother to look back.

I was gaining on him, a picked up my pace and was able to get ahold of his shirt. He looked down, and I jumped on his back. He bent far over to I fell right off of him. I let out a small scream before hitting the floor. That one did hurt my foot. Sharp pain started in my calve and worked its way down to my foot. "Shit." I said. "Whoa, I'm sorry."

"It's alright, I'm fine." Derek sat down next to me, both of us breathing heavily. He started to unfold the sweatshirt.

"Whats the big deal, it's just a..." He stopped and looked at me. "Oh, that's why."

I shook my head, I almost felt ashamed. He tossed it on my lap and stared at me, waiting for me to say something.

"It's not mine. It's Sidney's. He wouldn't let me wear my shirt around Pittsburgh."

"Why were you with Sidney? Does Jimmy know?"

I shook me head again. "Lunch and no.."

We both sighed at the exact same time, "I didn't want it. He insisted I keep it. I don't like the Pens one bit. I'm going to tell Jimmy about us being friends, just right now is not the right time."

"I understand. It will be our little secret." He winked.

"Thanks dude, I appreciate it. I'll talk to him though."

"Good." I didn't usually talk to Meecher like this. It was nice though.

I sat up and tried not to put pressure on my foot. Derek cringed, "That's not good."

"I know, I shouldn't have been running."

I tried to help him off the floor but groaned, "You're too heavy!"

He flashed me his guns, "It's all muscle baby!" We walked back to the room together, just now realizing we lost Aaron on the way.

"When did we lose Aaron?"

"Didn't you hear that thud? We lost him at the first turn." We laughed. "That's hilarious!"

I finally made it back to my room, we ran around the whole hotel, I hurried in the door, making sure that Jimmy wasn't in the room. I tucked the hoodie in the very bottom of my suitcase, hoping Jimmy wouldn't find it til' we talked.

Now, I was off to find the guys. They were in the exact same spot Aaron said they were. The arcade. All of the guys were surrounding the Air Hockey table. I laughed, just like them. Jimmy spotted me and came over, putting his arm around me. "I was looking for you. Aaron said you were chasing Derrick around. "Yeah.." I flinched as I put to much weight on my foot. "Whoa babe, you shouldn't be running around."

"Yeah I know. I'll be fine though." I walked over to the table and payed more attention to the game. It was my dad against Draps. They took it very seriously. Whoever lost probably had to sit in the back by the toliets on the way home, or something like that. Draps was up by two goals, and there was only 1:02 left in the game. Draps slammed the disc making my dad back out of the way. "Ding!" Draps scored, sealing the deal.

A "Ohhhhh!" came from all of us and we all piled on Kris. Making him fall. I decided I would join in. I saw a flash from someones camera, it was going to be a good picture.

***

Before I knew it, it was game time. I sat in the away locker room with the rest of the guys. They all did their little quirks that they did before most games. I looked around, knowing this was it. We had been waiting for this all season. I almost wanted to be out on the ice with them, but I knew that wasn't possible. We had been waiting for this moment all year. I wanted to take it all in.

I scanned the room for Aaron. And finally found him next to the trainer. I felt like I should talk to him before he played, it usually helped.

"Aar, you better kick some ass out there tonight, or I'll be kicking yours!" I told him as I walked over.

"Uhm I'm thinking you won't have to worry about that."

We walked out to the bench, I stood next to Jimmy who was in charge of counting face offs. I placed my hand over my heart for the national anthem. I was just glad I didn't have to hear Karren Newman's voice anymore this year. Before I knew it, the first period was underway.

Forever and Ever;;54

I sat across from Ozzie on the plane, the table in between us covered with playing cards. Pavel sat to my right. Somehow they had gotten me to join in on a game of Go Fish. "You have five?" Pav asked Ozzie in his strong Russian accent. "Nope." Ozzie replied.

He threw down his cards and yelled at Ozzie, "You cheat!" Then stomped of to the back of the plane. We looked at each other for a second, then burst out laughing. Anyone who knows the game, knows you really can't 'cheat'.



By the time we were done laughing, I had tears in my eyes. I walked back to where I was sitting with Jimmy. And he looked concerned. "Why are you crying?"

"It's a good cry. Promise." He nodded and looked out with window once again.

I felt around for my phone in my pocket, which had been vibrating for about five minutes. The only person I knew of who would be calling or texting was Sidney, and I was right.

"Hey"

"Hello Sidney"

"When are you landing?"

"About 5, I think. Why?"

"I was wondering if we could meet up, get dinner or something.

"Sidney, if people on this plane knew that I was talking to you right now, they would kill me."

"Was that a yes?"

"You have a game tonight, there's no time."

"Are you forgetting I eat before game."

I sighed. "I'll call you when we get to the hotel."

"Ok."

***

When we landed in Pittsburgh it was 4:45. And when we got to the Marriot it was just past five. I called Sidney outside, not really wanted anyone to know I was talking to him before such a big game. Most of the guys were going someplace else to eat, but I "didn't feel good" and decided I would stay behind. Once I knew everyone was gone, I took out my phone and dialed Sidney's number.
"Where are you?" Was the first think he asked.
"Marriot."
"Ok, I'll be there in a few."
That was probably the shortest conversation I had ever had with him. Something was up, because he always loved to talk to me.

I walked out front, to see Sidney' Range Rover to my left. I checked to make sure that none of the guys were around, and the walked over to his car.

He gave me a one handed hug when I slid into the black leather seat.
"I missed you." He said with a smile.
"I missed you too?" I replied, awkwardly.
"I have the perfect place to eat, you'll love it."
I smiled slightly, "That's good."

On the radio I could hear people talking about tonight's game.
Sidney switched it off quickly, "Sorry."
I didn't say anything. I just looked out the window and stared at all the Pens fans walking the streets. This town loved their team. I figured that maybe today was not a good day to wear my Wings shirt.


We pulled up to some restaurant I had never heard of before.Sidney searched around in the backseat. I pulled out a sweatshirt with a Pens logo on it, and threw it in my lap. I looked at him, not sure what he was doing.
"Trust me, you don't want to go in there wearing that." He said, referring to my shirt.
I laughed, "Thanks."

We sat neer the back, trying not to draw alot of attention, but it didn't really work. Not even five minutes into the meal, a swam of girls spotted him. They got there autographs, pictures, hugs, whatever floated their boat. I sat there, kind of awkwardly, uncomfortable in this sweatshirt, as stupid as it may sound.
I played with the cuffs of the sweatshirt, trying to act like I didn't care, even if I did.
"I'm sorry about that." Sidney said, bringing me out of my thoughts.
"It's fine.."
I noticed his hands were shaking somewhat, he must have been nervous.
"Wow Sidney.."
He looked down at his hands, then placed him in his lap, not saying anything.
"I wouldn't know what you go through everyday Sid, It doesn't make me mad. I'm around it all the time."
"People expect so much out of me... they're expecting me to lead this team to the cup tonight. The pressure is crazy."
"Look around Sidney! People love you. I love you. In a friend way of course. If people love you as much as they say, they will understand Your young, and your amazing athlete. Your gunna get there. If it's tonight or not, I'm not sure."
I could tell he was listening to me. He took me seriously.
"Hey, you've made me a Pens fan... sort of?"
He laughed, "Awesome"

I looked down at my phone. It it was getting closer to game time. Sidney paid for the meal, the the gentlemen I knew he was, and we went back to the hotel.

He pulled up close to the doors, "You better hurry up, I don't want to start any problems." He laughed.

"There won't be any, they know I'm friends with you, sort of."

I began to take of his sweatshirt, until he stopped me.

"Keep it.. for now. Your coming to a Pens game soon, right?"

"Sometime next season. Sure"

"Promise?"

"I promise."

This time he gave me a full hug and kissed my cheek.

"Good luck tonight Sid. Do your best."

"I will."

I closed the car door and watched his drive away.

I looked around, making sure the coast was clear, and pulled the sweatshirt off. I would wear it sooner or later, but definitely not now.

*Ok, just an FYI, if your not understanding the story.

SHE'S NOT CHEATING ON JIMMY IN ANYWAY. Noooo. Don't feel bad for him, she'll be telling him soon. You'll have to see how he takes it. I love my Jimmy wayy to much to do that to him in the story.

She's not falling for Sidney. Nor is she blowing her own team off.

She's trying to become better friends with Sid and work things out.

She's going around secretly because some of the guys might be mad if they knew, seeing that they are facing them in the final game.

She's not becoming a major Pen's fan or any of that jazz.

She's not sneaking around really, just not sure how the team would take it.

Shes not breaking things off with Jimmy in anyway. The story is about the two of them, I'm just trying to make it interesting. No feeling bad for Jimmy, he'll understand about them being friends ;)

Questions? Just let meh know, Thankss*

Forever and Ever;;53

I sat down at the table, flipping through my menu. I didn't really have an appetite, but thought I should order anyway. Jimmy flipped through his menu, I could tell he was annoyed. Finally he looked up, but I looked away.


"What's going on?" He asked.


I shrugged my shoulders, "I don't know, I don't usually feel this way."


I played with my fingers, "Tell me."


He would get it out of me like he usually did, "You're going to think it's stupid."


"No I won't."


"Well...it's just that hockey season is going to be over and I just get so weird about it. It's childish, so just forget we even talked about it."


"That's not stupid at all. But were going to have all summer with the cup, so it will


go by super fast. Promise."


I laughed, "Yeah hopefully."


"Oh and were going to New York to see my parents, at least once."


"As long as you promise we can go to Cambridge and visit my family."

"Of coarse."





Jimmy looked at his watch, we needed to be at the Detroit Metro at 2:30. It was getting close to one. Jimmy threw down thirty dollars on the table and we went back out to the car.


"We better not miss this flight Jimmy, or I'm going to kill you."


"It's not my fault if we miss it, your the one PSMing."


"Am not!"


"Are too!" He mimicked my voice.


I shook my head, "Drive faster!"


***


I sat down by Morgan on Red Bird II, thankfully Jimmy and I made it to the airport on time. Not thanks to me. It took me forever to limp around with my cast. I had practically given up on my crutches, they slowed me down.



I looked around the plane, searching for my dad. He was sitting up front, ne'er Cleary. Pav tripped me as I walked down the isle. I laughed and punched him in the shoulder.

"Pops!" I yelled, trying to get his attention. He turned around, "Yeah?'

"When are mom and El coming?"

"Later tonight, might want to check with her though."

I shook my head, and made my way back to my seat, making sure not to trip over Pavel's foot this time.

***

The plane ride went faster than usual, thanks to Morgan being there with me. We were back in Pittsburgh in no time. Thoughts of the game that brought us back here made my stomach flip. So close yet so far. I was actually pissed at Ozzie about it. He could have had that goal. But me being pissed at Ozzie wasn't going to make me any better at it. So I needed to get over it and move on. I tried to put happy thoughts in my head, like drinking out of the cup for the 3rd time. (:

Forever and Ever;;52

I heard the front door open as I stepped out of the shower. I quickly put on a pair of jean shorts and a tank top, knowing he would most likely walk in. And I wasn't in the mood for him to be all sweet, or romantic, or even funny.





I walked right past him in the hallway, on my way into the bedroom. I didn't want to be rude. But I just wasn't happy at all about the season almost being over. It made me upset and sad at the same time. I stood in front of the full length mirror in our bedroom, and played with my stomach. I wasn't skinny, I was built. I had large broad shoulders and a curvy stomach. Nothing about my body was special and I never really cared for it. I was built like an athlete. Like my dad.


"What are you doing?" Jimmy asked.


"I'm so fat!" I was taking all of my frustrations out on myself and the people around me.


"Whoa, you are so not fat. You actually have a really nice body."


I continued to play with it anyway. Jimmy came over and stood behind me. He placed my hands back on my said and kissed me neck, "Stop."


I stared back at my reflection in the mirror, and didn't like what I saw. I had large bags under my eyes and my skin was extremely pale.


"This isn't like you." He told me.


And I knew it wasn't. I turned around to face him, and looked straight up at him. He frowned, as did I.





I placed my hand on my forehead, "I'm sorry." Was the only thing I managed to say. He pulled me closer, placing his arms on the small of my back. I looked down at me and kissed my forehead, then my lips.



"I'm hungry" I told Jimmy, in an effort to change the subject. "Let's go get something then." I put on my sweatshirt and followed him out the door.



I sighed and rested my head against the car window, knowing he would get me to talk about what was going on. We pulled up to Chelis-our usual spot we went to eat.

Forever and Ever;;51

After a while I didn't feel like crying in front of everyone anymore. I used to be pretty good at holding everything in, but not lately. I walked a little faster than I usually did, past tons of fans and photographers, out the side door. Once I heard the door close behind me, I took a deep breath and wiped away my remaining tears, "Pull it together," I kept telling myself. I was debating on weather to go back in, or just go home. Once I thought about it I figured that I needed some time by myself.






I got back to the apartment and flipped on the TV. Only to see highlights of the game. I flipped it back of and just sat there. Thoughts were running through my head a mile a minute. Jimmy walked in that exact moment. I ran to the door and wrapped my arms around him. He dropped his bag and rubbed my back. "It's alright.." He kept telling me over and over again. A tear feel down my cheek, but I brushed it away.



"I might smell." He told me. "I didn't shower." "I don't care," I told him, my face still burred in his neck. After a while, he kissed my cheek and went in to shower.


I didn't dare turn the TV back on. So I went into the bedroom, changed into a pair of shorts and a tank top. I was exhausted. All of this crying and worrying was draining me. I expected that once my head hit the pillow- I would be out. But all I did was toss and turn for about ten minutes. Jimmy came in and layed down next to me. He placed his hand on the small of my back, trying to make me feel better. "Were going to win the next one. Promise." How did he always know the right things to say to me? I turned over and smiled, that was all I needed to hear. I pressed my lips against his, knowing things would soon get better.


***


Jimmy got up early for practice the next morning, and I started to get ready since we were leaving that night. I took a suitcase out of our walk in closet, knowing it would be the last time I would be packing to go to Pittsburgh for a while. I laughed when I came across Sidney's jersey in the suitcase. I held it up against my torso, it was the perfect size. I folded it up and threw it in the back of my closet. Putting it out of my mind for now. I continued packing for what was ahead, which was going to be a long hard game.

Forever and Ever;;49

Game day came, this was it. We win or we go back to Pittsburgh.



I slipped the jersey over my head and took a deep breath, the boys had worked so hard this year and it all came down to this. "Good Luck" I told Jimmy right before the game. I stood on my toes and kissed him one last time. "Love you babe" He told me, "I love you too." And then I let them head out to the ice. I headed up the steps, to my seat and glanced up at the press box. I'm pretty sure everyone around me was wondering why I was smiling so big.

There he was, the guy who taught me so much. Stevie Y. I ran down the steps as fast as I could and got up there. He was all dressed up in his suit and tie and his face lit up when he saw me, "Stevie!"He gave me a hug and continued to ask me how I had been. We talked for a while and before I knew it the third period was about to start. I had felt bad that I didn't go and see Jimmy or the guys during the intermissions, but I'm sure they would understand. I was more excited about how the game was going. We were up 3-2 and everything seems to be going our way.

Time seemed to tick way. That was until the very end of the 3rd. The Joe was going crazy and my heart kept beating faster and faster. Not one person was sitting. They had the cup ready to go, and champagne ready to be popped opened. And then it happened. They scored. With only 34.3 seconds left, they tied it up 3-3 and everything got quiet except the few Pens fans who were there.

Everything went downhill from then on. We went into overtime and then another, and then one more. I remember almost falling asleep it was getting so late. I kept my eyes gluded for to the ice, and Ozzie stopped shot after shot. I hoped for the best, but got the worst. I closed my eyes and sighed louadly. Trying so hard to hold in all my emotion. The Pens scored again in the 3rd OT and we were going back to Pittsburgh. Peter Sykora even told Micky that he was going to be the one to get the goal, and he did. It made me sick them celebrate out on our home ice. And even if we did win it in Pittsburgh, it wouldn't be the same as winning it at home.

I hesitated before pushing open the locker room door. There would be so much mixed emotion that it would be crazy in there. Everyone's parents and family had come to the game that night, so it would also be packed.

It was all such a blur. It was so hot and way to many people crowded in this one room. Tons of conversations were going on so it was terribly loud. It had obviously been a hard game and a terrible night. I have never seen Aaron look like that before. I wanted to go over and hug him. But it seemed like now was not the right time. I was trying so hard to keep my composure, but then it just all feel apart. I made my way over to Jimmy as fast as I could, and ran through crowds of people and into his arms. I sobbed in his shoulder. And his arms were tight around me. I don't know how long we stood like that but it had to have been a while. Jimmy never complained once. He was just there for me and that's all I needed.


[Better?]

Forever and Ever;;48

I woke up the next morning, rubbed my eyes, and yawned Jimmy's hand was on top of mine. I just smiled. I ran my finger up and down his bare chest, and he didn't even move. I sighed and sat up, my eyes glanced at the clock- 10:30. I never seemed to get enough sleep. With all the traveling and time changes, alot of the time I seemed exhausted.





There was no game today, but I knew Jimmy wouldn't be home for very long today. Bab's would have them practicing like crazy seeing we were one win away from the cup. Just the thought of it brought a huge smile to my face. I opened up the fridge, and took out a gallon of milk. I smelled the rim of it and my nose cringed, we had no food in the fridge. Then again we hadn't been home much lately. We had been eating out alot, which might have explained why I gained five pounds in the past month.



I slammed the door shut and sighed. I didn't feel like going out to go grocery shopping, we would be busy the next few days anyway. I put on my filp flops and headed across the lawn. I didn't bother to knock on there door, I just barged in. I found Aaron on the couch, and Derek trying to figure out the blender. "Hey, look who didn't trip on the hose today!" He spoke up. "Screw you Derek, look who can't figure out a blender!" He looked down at it and frowned, "Will you help me?" I made my way into the kitchen, and plugged in the electrical cord. "I love you Der, but you are a dumbass." He gave me this confused look and I shook my head, "Wow...." I opened up there fridge door, only to see it looked exactly like ours- no food.
"Arron... go get me some Micky De's" I whined.
"No, get it yourself."
I groaned, then continued bugging him. "What, are you doing anyways old man?"
his eyes got big, he hated when I called him that. "Alright, I'll go!"
***
"So boys, we winning the cup tomorrow?" I asked as I shoved more hot cakes into my mouth. Neither of them said anything, "Well don't all speak at once!"
"You already know the answer to that."

New Story!

Hey Everyone, My new story is up. Tell me how it is okay? It's called 'Ever After' and feedback would be GREAT! I will be updating this story very soon, so just bare with me. Check up on updates on both, I will keep them up as well as I can. :]

Forever and Ever;;47

[Hey guys, I have been thinking about starting another story here soon, I will update both of them though. It will probably be hard to keep up with both of them, but I can do it. That is, I f I don't end this one soon. I will tell you know when I get it up, and feedback is greatly appreciated. I just need help with a title. It's going to have Ryan Lochte, the Olympic swimmer in it. But I will also have Wings in there too. I don't want to give to much away, but it will still be a hockey fan fic. Just alot of stuff in with it. Get where I'm going? Any Idea's for a title?]



The next day we got on Red Bird II and headed to Pittsburgh. This was one trip I was not going to miss for anything.

***

When the night came around and we played the Pens, I got and uneasy feeling after Sidney scored his second of the night. But I could only smile seeing the happiness on his face. And just like that, the Pens were back in it. I hated to admit it, but in that game, they played so much better than us.



They all stormed into the dressing room, without saying a word to each other. I knew Bab's would chew them apart later.

I stood out in the hallway while Bab's voice screamed in the locker room. Sidney walked passed me as I stood there, my back against the wall. "Good game," I told him. He smile and re-adjusted his hat. "You should come and celebrate with us, it'll be alot of fun."
"Yeah, that would go over well." He shrugged his shoulders, "So..."
"I'm not going to be a Pens fan anytime soon." He laughed, "Trust me, I know."

Just then Aaron came out of the locker room, I turned my head, "Shit." Maybe he won't notice me. He was probably to pissed to care that I was talking to Sidney. For some odd reason, he hated him. As he got farther down the hallway, I told Sidney goodbye and made my way through the crowds, back into the locker room
***
I spent the next day, spending time with the guys, sight seeing, we went and saw Step Brothers, and had dinner at some crazy restaurant.

Things got better the next game, we beat the Pens the next night 2-1. If we won another game, the cup was ours. They guys were extremely excited, but ready to get home. I loved being in Detroit, it was my home way from home, meaning Edmonton. I wanted to take Jimmy there some time during the off season. He said he had been there, but never really visited any sights. Which was the best part. I wasn't a California girl. I didn't always have a tan, and I loved the cold weather. It was my favorite. And I loved being at my favorite place in the whole world.

I was so excited to get home, I didn't even bother to answer any of Sidney's calls. He had wanted to show me Pittsburgh, but right then, I didn't really care. We got in late that night, so when we got home, we crashed.

Forever and Ever;;46

So, I decided to go home, and spend my night watching some of my favorite videos. My phone started to play 'Me so Horny' so I knew it was Aaron calling. I picked it up and sat on the end of my bed.


"Hey"


"You really need to come out here, it's not as fun without you."


I rubbed my forehead, "I just... Don't think I should be there right now."


Lebda, who was obviously drunk, took the phone from Aaron, "You better get over here-" and that was it. Aaron soon said "Oh wow, he just passed out. So I better go, but really. Think about coming."


I hung up the phone and thought for a second, If I didn't go, I would regret it. But I wasn't getting all dressed up. The guys had seen me look like a total mess before . This day was no different. I put on a pair of black skinny jeans, and my favorite lime green tank, with silver flats. I only put on mascara, for makeup.



I passed my mom sitting on the coach. She was watching an old home video, one off my dad teaching me how to skate. I had to have been three years old. I saw a tear fall from my mom's cheek. I smiled, and sat next to her. "The good ol' days" I mumbled. She turned to me and laughed, "I'm not really sure why I'm crying."

"It's because your daughter is all grown up!"

Her smile turned into a frown. "Mom, I'm always going to be your little girl."

She wrapped her arms around me, to where I could feel her stomach hitting mine.

I got up and walked to the door, "I'm going out, I won't be gone long."

"Hun, we need to talk when you get back." She finished. I knew exactly what this 'talk' was going to be about.

***
Once I pushed past the doors of Whisky's, I saw my favorite guys. They were surrounded by lots of women, "Puck Bunny's" I muttered. Aaron spotted me from the bar and hopped off his stool. He came towards me and gave me a hug, he must have saw me looking around for Jimmy. "He's not here yet." He whispered in my ear. I breathed a sigh of relief. As I walked to the bar with Aaron, I almost tripped on something laying on the floor. I looked down to see Lebda, "You guys didn't even bother to pick him up?" Aaron shook his head, "He's long gone." I laughed and stepped over him.

Aaron ordered me a Miller Lite, and slid it down the table to me. I noticed Kyle throwing punches out of the corner of my eye, I dropped my beer,and hurried over to where he and some other drunk guy were having words.
"Quince!" I screamed as I got closer. I stood in the middle of the two, "Kyle save it." He looked at me, his eyes bloodshot. "Who are you to tell me what to do? You can't even keep your own guy in check." He pointed behind me, and there stood Jimmy. He threw one more punch, missed, and there I was on the floor. My head throbbing. Jimmy sat me up and inspected my eye, which I;m sure was black and blue. He touched the corner of it, and I flinched. "Sorry, I should be more careful."
"No, it's alright," I told him "I'll be fine." Kyle was knelt down next to me, so I slugged his shoulder, "Great job." He was completely drunk, but managed to apologize.

Jimmy helped me over to a nearby booth, even though I really didn't need the help. He grabbed the bag of ice from Aaron and applied it to the left side of my face. I hadn't seen or spoken to Jimmy in about four days, but it was long enough.
"Thanks" I whispered.
"No problem," And kissed the side of my head.
I looked at him with a confused look. "I thought we were taking a break?"
"Aaron's crazy," He said softly. His lips pressed against mine in a passionate kiss, and that's when I knew, everything was going to be okay between us.

Forever and Ever;;45

I wanted to let Aaron get some sleep, we were playing the Pens at home again that night. I wanted to go, but I pretty much had to drag myself out the door. I needed to talk to Sidney anyway, and I needed to support my boys.

I limped into the away dressing room, once again. I copy of the sports section dangling for my left hands. I giggled at his bright smile when he saw me walk in. His arms came around me, in a large hug. I backed away and held the paper up in front of his face, "Have you seen this?" He looked shocked, "No, I don't read the paper, unless it's a local one back home. That's a pretty good picture of us though." He grinned. I shook my head and smiled, he had a way of doing that to me. "Yeah, well Jimmy isn't to happy about it, so were taking a break." His eyes widened, "Oh, really?" "Yeah really" He changed the subject quickly, "Are you coming to Pittsburgh?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Well, we should do something together, just hang out, if your not too busy?"

"Nah, I'm never to busy.Hey, did you just eat Oreo's?"

"What? No why?" "Your beard, you look better without it. Cause it looked like you just ate oreo's and forgot to wipe your mouth off." He looked at himself in the mirror, "You're right, it is pretty bad." We both laughed at the same time. I smiled and looked into his big brown eyes. He put his arms around me and pulled me closer to him, and kissed my cheek, "How's the foot?" "Better"

It was about game time, so I headed out, and into the hallway. My eyes met with Aaron's, who was coming toward me with a discussed look on his face. So I tried to play it cool.

"What were you doing in there?" He asked.

"Oh, They needed some towels, so I took them some." I smiled, and licked my lips, a nervous habit of mine.

"You wouldn't happen to have happened to talk to that tool Crosby would you?"

I shook my head, "Nope."

"Well, tell me if you do, I have some words for him." I punched his shoulder and followed him into the locker room.

***

I sat there and watched as we beat the Penguins 3-0 of Ozzie's second shutout of the series. The Joe went crazy and cheered "Ozzie, Ozzie, Ozzie"

I walked into the locker room ,and Aaron snapped me from behind with his towel, "Oww, you ass," I slapped his arm, "That hurt!" I laughed, "Oh you know you liked it." Aaron said.

I glanced over at Jimmy's locker, only to see him look back at me. I turned my head, if I thought to much about him, then I would just be upset. I didn't need to get myself worked up over it again. Aaron tapped my shoulder, "You going to Whisky's tonight?"

"Is Jimmy going?" I asked, quietly.

"I think so, but you should come anyway. You can hang out with your best friend!"

"And how would that be?"

"Well me of course!"

"Sorry Aar, I think I'm going to pass tonight."

Forever and Ever;;44

I woke up the next morning in a familiar room. My old bedroom, at my parents house. I had gone there because going back to the house, was not something I thought would go over well. Ella ran in the bed room and jumped on my bed. "You're here, you're here!" She screamed. No matter how upset I was, hat little girl could put a smile on my face. Since Ella had opened the door, the smell of breakfast came in to my room. Canadian Bacon, my dad made the best. Ella was pulling me off the bed, "Come sit by me!" I threw my hair in a ponytail and walked into the kitchen.



"Canadian bacon eh' Pops?"



"Of course!" Just then my mom walked into the kitchen, she looked bigger than the last time I saw her, but I'm sure she wasn't. "Phew, sure smells good!" She hadn't noticed me sitting on the bar stool yet, "Hey mom." She jumped, "Hey hunny, What are you doing here?" She talked slow, I knew she had seen the paper. Then there was my dad, who never read the paper. I would have rather talked to my mom about this anyway, not my dad.







I played with the eggs on my plate, I had no appetite. Ella stanched the last piece of bacon off my plate, and shoved it in her mouth. I didn't even care. My dad came around the counter at took the plate from me, "Are you alright?" I came out of my thoughts and took a deep breath, "Yeah, just a little tired." I lied. More like sick of not being able to play hockey, fighting with Jimmy, the Playoffs, going to school in Pittsburgh, Sidney, It was all to much for me. I tried my best to handle it, but I couldn't. A warm tear fell down my cheek, and Ella wiped it away. "I'm sorry for taking your bacon," "No, no El. It's okay." She smiled, and hopped down off the stool. My mom came and put her arm around me, "Go get dressed" I obied and walked into my bedroom. I stared at the walls for a second. All of my hockey gear, photos, collectibles were there. It made me feel so guilty, so hurt. I should have been home more, with my family. What kind of sister was I, I hadn't talked to my own brother in six months. So many emotions were coming over me, and I had no idea why. I wanted so much to be with Jimmy at that exact moment, but I knew it wasn't possible.



My phone vibrated on the charger. I wanted it to be Jimmy, but I knew it wouldn't be.


"Hey Aaron."


"Can you come over, we need to talk."


"Uhh.'"


"It's important."


I sighed "Give me ten minutes"


***

I knew this talk wasn't going to be a good one. He had talked to Jimmy. Before I drove into the driveway, I stopped at the house. I noticed the Jimmy's car wasn't in the driveway. It was a good thing, because otherwise, I might have wanted to go and talk. Which didn't seem like the right thing to do right now. I made my way up the sidewalk and Aaron opened the door. And once I saw the look on his face, I knew something was wrong.

I smiled slightly when he greeted me, and sat on their black leather couch, and Aaron sat next to me. I waited for him to say something, and he didn't. He just sat there and looked at his feet.

"Aaron, you need to tell me."

"Well... I hope you weren't expecting him to be happy. Because he definitely not."

I rubbed my eyes, "I know, and I really wish i could say or so something to make it better, and I can't."

"I think, you guys just need some time apart, figure things out."

Maybe Aaron was right. Maybe that is what we needed. We had spent alot of time together. But then again, it hurt me so much.

I put my hand in my face, and cried. Aaron put his arm around me, "Don't cry. he'll come around."

"Aar, the one thing that would get me through this is hockey, I can't even do that.

Forever and Ever;;43

"What the hell is this?" Jimmy asked me the next morning. He threw the second page of the sports section at me. I rubbed my eyes, trying to get my vision clear. I stared down at the page, "Oh god," I mumbled. "How did they get this?" There it was, on the second page of the Detroit Free Press, Sidney and I. The title read 'The Playoffs heat up. In more that one way!' My eyes stayed glued to the page, as I scanned the artical. I looked up, my eyes met with Jimmy's. I sighed, searching for the words to say. "Well?" The tone of his voice made me flinch. "Nothing happened." I said quietly. He stanched the paper out of my hand, and stared at the picture. "Looks like something to me."

"Were just friends! Do you really think I would do that to you?" I practically screamed.

I expected him to be mad, but I was hoping he would listen to me.

"Sidney is just... a great guy. As a friend, nothing more."

"I really wished I believed you." He walked down the hallway and slammed the bathroom door behind him.

I sighed and threw on a sweatshirt, and limped across the yard to Aaron's. I knew they would give me crap about the papers too, but I had nothing else better to do. Once I walked in the from door, I saw Kyle (Quincey) and Helm there too. Kyle's eyes shot up at me. They must have been talking about me. I sat myself on the leather couch and groaned. The newspaper sat in front of me, and Aaron eyed me from the kitchen. Kyle sat down next to me and tried to make a conversation, "So how have you been?" I was becoming frustrated and bit my lip. "Do you want to know what happened?" Referring to the papers. "Please?" Aaron spoke up fome the other room. "Well, first of all, there's nothing going on." "Looks like something to me," Aaron pointed to the photo. "That's what Jimmy said." I looked down at my feet, I felt terrible. Like I was going to puke.

"Look Madi, I see the way Jimmy looks at you. He loves you more than anything in the world," My eyes widened, Helm was always the quiet guy. It was unlike him to say that. I closed my eyes and tried to gather my thoughts. A tear fell from my cheek, but I wiped it away. "I don't even know what to say. I love Jimmy more than anything-" "We know" They all said at once. "So then you guys know, I love him and I would never try and do that."
"You don't even know how much he talks about you when you're not around"
"Oh really, what does he tell you guys?"
"Can't tell you that." He didn't have to tell me what they talked about. I knew exactly what it was.
"So what exactly were you doing with Sidney?" Aaron asked.
"Having dinner.... as friends."
"Ohh." Aaron large arms wrapped around me, "I'll talk to him. But you have to promise me, nothings going on?"
"I promise."

Forever and Ever;;42

I sat in my regular seat, as the lights dimmed, and the announcer called out the lineup. They lowered Al the Octopus to the ice, and red lights flashed all around me. The Joe was an amazing place to be during the playoffs, the energy, the excitement, I loved it. That night Ozzie didn't let one in, Sammy had two goal's, and we beat the Pens 4-0. The final buzzer rang and everyone
was on their feet, I stood up an cheered before I made my way I made my way into the locker room.

***

"Hey Sid!" I said, when I picked up my phone the next morning.

"What are you doing today?"

"Nothing really."

"Want to get something to eat with me later tonight?"

I was silent for a second, Should I? "Uh, sure."

"Seven sound okay?"

"Great."



I sighed and fell against the couch I hope I'm doing the right thing. I sat down with my laptop, looking for schools. "Oh God," I mumbled. I scrolled down to see that the closest school that had the classes.....We're in Pittsburgh. I took a deep breath and closed the computer, sitting it on the coffee table. Either I was going back to school in the Fall, which meant leaving Jimmy for maybe a year and a half at the most. Or going to Pittsburgh to get my dream job. I knew Jimmy would hate me forever if I went. I had a choice, but it wasn't going to be easy.

***

"Where are you going?" Jimmy asked me when I pulled a black top over my head.

"Oh, out with friends. I won't be gone long." I hated lieing to him, but I didn't want him to think something was going between Sid and I. Because nothing was. A friend eating dinner with a friend. But he might think it was more that that. I told Sidney I would meet him at the hotel they were staying at.



We did nothing more than have dinner at a nice Italian restaurant called Bravo.

"I have something to give you." Sidney said

"Oh yeah, what would that be?"

Sidney lead my out to his Range Rover, where he dug through the back seat.

"Ah, hear it is." He pulled out none other, than a Penguins jersey. With 'Crosby' on the back. "I guessed a small?"

"I'm not worried about the size Sid." I laughed. and held it out in front of me, "I'm not sure when I'm going to wear this."

"Wear it to the next game!"

"Yeah right! Do you want my friends to kill me?" By then he was standing not far from me. His warm breath was beating down on my neck. His lips brushed against mine, "Sidney, I can't."

"I understand." I wrapped my arms around his neck and he kissed my forehead. I got into my car and sat there for a second. Was I really falling for Sidney Crosby?

Forever and Ever;;41

[Hey guys, If your reading can you just leave me a comment, Im just sort of intreted in how many people are reading,Thanks!]



I gasped when he opened the door. Each wall was filled top to bottom with pictures. I was suprised at how many pictures he had gotten over the past few months. I noticed the Red Wings rug underneath my feet. I stopped at a photo bigger that the rest, It was just of me.

"Thats-"

"My favorite" He finished. His lips pressed against mine, "So remember when you said we would celebrate in our own special way?" "Sure do" "I think now would be a perfect time." His hands slid under my shirt and pulled it over my head, letting my wavy hair come down on my bra. His hands wrapped around me searching for the clasp. He picked me up, him mouth never leaving mine, and walked into the bedroom.

***

The next morning I was woken up by the doorbell. My legs were tangled in Jimmy, so i took me a while to get up. The doorbell rang again, "Im coming!"I yelled. I threw on a pair of boxers and a oversized shirt. I threw my partly wet hair in a ponytail and and walked to the door to find Aaron.

"Oh, sorry. Am I.... intrurupting something?"

I bit my lip, "What do you want Aaron?"

"Practice starts in ten minutes!"

I slammed the door in his face and got to the bedroom as fast as I could. "Jimmy practice in ten minutes!" I got up and rubbed his eyes ,turning the clock to face him. I threw his bag at him and walked to the door again, to see Aaron standing in the same spot. "Is your boy ready yet?" Jimmy walked past me, "I guess so."

The photo's Jimmy had put up in the room had reminded me of something, I had always been intrested in sports phtography. And was really wanting to go back to school and that be my Major. I decided to get more information about it later.

***

Later that night, before we played the Pens, I decided to go see Sidney. I hobbled into the away locker room and searched for Sidney. I found him talking to Colby Armstrong in the corner. "Sidney!" I screeched. I noticed Colby giving me the up and down and Sindey staring at my foot. "What happend to you?" "Long story." In wrappend my arms around his neck, and his slid his hands into the pockets of my Hollister jeans. I backed away and shook my head, "Sidney, No."

"Can't help it!" I laughed, "Well I better get going, game time soon." "Ill call you?" "Sure!" I made my way out of the dressing room, and back into the home locker room.

Forever and Ever;;40

I went shopping with Morgan that weekend. I had to get more paint, and look at furniture. I hated the couch and bed Jimmy had, so those two things were a must.

"How about this?" Morgan asked when she picked up a pillow. I took a closer look, one side of it sad 'Tonight' and the other half said 'Not tonight.'



"Oh I bet Jimmy would love that." I told her no but she threw two in the cart anyways. I had a perfect idea for our bedroom. I found an amazing Red Wings comforter set on Ebay. So I ordered it. Two walls were going to be black and two were going to be red. I planned on putting trophy's and awards Jimmy had won on a side table. Since he had played at the University of Maine, Flint Generals, and the Griffs. Jimmy went out with the guys that day to a Tigers game. Aaron and Meech stuck to there promise and finished painting the bottom part of the house before I left. I decided on a light yellow and orange, like I had thought of before. I was hoping it wouldn't be to bright. I didn't want Jimmy to hate it. I was pretty sure he was done with the room he was working on also. But, he locked to door so I wasn't able to get in.



Morgan stopped at a beige colored couch. "What about this one?"

"Eh." My Canadian accent kicking in. "I guess it's okay."

I hadn't seen anything else that day so it would do.

"What size bed do you guys want?"

"Oh definitely a queen!" I joked

"I bet."

"Morgan! You're terrible!" She smiled as we continued around the store.

We stopped at a black iron queen bed, that had a crazy design on the headboard.

"It's perfect."

***

Once I walked through the front door, the smell of fresh paint surrounded me.

"Wow, I love the colors." Morgan said.

They were perfect, they went with everything so well. I brought out a framed newspaper, it was after we had won the Stanley Cup in 2002. It had Scotty Bowman and Stevie holding the cup. 'Priceless' spread across the from page for all of Michigan to see. My broken foot hadn't stopped me form doing anything. Even though I was supposed to use my crutches, I hobbled around without them anyway. The guys had even painted the red and white for me, put on Red Wings stickers, signed them, and my cast.

***

As I finished putting Jimmy's things on a table in the bedroom, I heard the front door squeak. he most likely thought I was sleeping since it had gotten late. Morgan had left hours ago, I told her I could finish the rest on my own.



He was probably mad, seeing the Tigers lost. Nothing new really.

"Hey, how was the game." I asked, standing in the hallway.

"Terrible."

"Ohh."

"How's the foot?"

"Hurts like hell."

"Sorry babe,"

"Its alright."

"I want to show you something." He took my hand in his and went down to the hallway, into the room he said he was 'decorating'.

Forever and Ever;;39

I put my phone back in my pocket and ran over to Jimmy as fast as I could. I put my lips to his. "Congratulations baby. We made it!"

"First time in my NHL carrier."

"Then we will have to celebrate. I mean, In our own special way." I winked.


His eyebrows shot up. "Ohh really,"

I shrugged my shoulders, "Maybe,"

I made my way over to Derek and Aaron. "Alright guys wheres my hugs?" They smiled at each other, and crossed my arms. "Oh cmon, don't be like that!" I gave them the puppy dog face. Finally after threatening them, they gave in. "I love you guys. You are definitely my best friends."
"We love you too." They said at exactly the same time, my face nuzzled into Aaron's shoulder. I didn't know what I would do without these guys in my life. "When we get home, instead of going to Whiskeys, were having a barbecue at the house." Aaron told me. "Fine by me." "But there's one problem, I need help getting the house ready."
"So you guys want me to help you?"
"Please??" They begged.
I groaned, "I guess... but you guys have to help me paint."
"Sure."
***
When we got home the next day, I stood in the foyer with Jimmy.
"Do you really trust me with the decorating?" I asked.
"Of course! You just have to let me decorate one room."
"Do what ever you want with the computer room."
"I was thinking about a light yellow and Orange," I added

I walked across the yard, this time avoiding the garden house, to Aaron's house.
"Hey sweet cheeks!" I said when he opened the door, and smacked his butt. It was almost two but it looked like he had just gotten up. I saw Meecher sitting on the couch playing NHL 08 again. I took the controller out of his hand and beat Marty Turco for the winning goal.
"How do you like me now?" I laughed.
He was speechless, "How did you-when did you-"
"I know I'm pretty good."
"Aaron! What do you want me to do?" He was still half asleep sitting next to me.

We walked onto the back porch. They had a pool a little bigger than ours. "Well we need to set up streamers, balloon's, make signs, stuff like that. I noticed that I was standing next to Derek, and we were right by the pool. I gave him a evil look and he didn't really get it, until it was too late. I gave him a little push, but it was just enough. Water flew up in the air, and Aaron jumped in too. Derek surfaced and shook the water out of his face. I was dieing to jump in, put I wasn't sure how it would be on my foot. After about three hours we had everything ready to go, I even made I sign that said 'Future Stanley Cup Champions'.

I went home and took a shower, dried and curled my hair. I put on my favorite American Eagle bikini and a navy blue sun dress. Just as I slid my dress over my head I heard Jimmy's voice. "Hey."
"Hey. You better hurry up and get ready!"
"I know.
***
As we were walking next door, Jimmy's hand brushed against mine. I grabbed it and intertwined our fingers. He stopped dead in his tracks, I looked around "What?"
"I love you babe."
"I love you too."
I spend most off the night playing 'Bull Shit" with Ozzie, Mule, and Homer.

Forever and Ever;;38

I sat myself down on the plane, and out my crutches where are usually sat. He sat in the seat next to me across the isle. Once he got on the plane about ten minutes later, he glared at me. "Well I guess it was kind of my fault. But they can stay here on this one time!" He moved them over to where he usually rested his feet. I took my crutches from Aaron and walked up to the front, where some off the guys were playing cards. My dad had told most of them what happened, thank God. I was in no mood to explain what happened. I laid down my royal flush "You know guys," "What?" Mule asked. "The worst part about it is...." I swallowed hard. It was hard for me to over come the thought. "I can't play any hockey." The mood darkened around the table, a sob coming up in my throat. Don't you dare cry. I told myself. I sat my hand of cards down and buried my face in my hands. Jimmy put his arm around me and kissed the side of my head. "It'll be alright"





But it wouldn't, even after I did get this cast off. I would never play hockey the same. And, it would take forever for me to play as well as I did before. I hated the thought, but tried to focus on other things. I checked my phone to see that the Penguins had beat the Flyers. They were going to the finals. The guys were going to beat Dallas tonight. That was that. I steeped off the plane, and the hot Texas air met my face. I walked into the building, and noticed that Ken and Mickey were on the air. A Dallas fan came up form behind them, "Detroit still sucks." Aaron's face became red, "Not tonight," I told him "We need you."



We continued our way into the locker rooms past fans and reporters. Tons of them wanted interviews, but when I didn't see Ken or Mickey, I went past. Since it was a away game I decided to to the bench to watch the game. I sat next to Jimmy. I smiled up at him and kissed his lips gently. "Howard!" Babs called. "You better be counting those face offs!" I turned my attention back to the game. As the final second ticked away, we wear leading by three goals. I stood on my feet. 10...9...8...7...6 My heart was beating fast and my mind was going crazy. 3..2...1. We were going to the Stanley cup finals! They guys jumped over the boards and onto the ice, celebrating with Ozzie. I gave Babcock a hug. He got us this far. Jimmy grabbed my waist and threw me over his shoulder, taking me out to the ice. He sat me down in front of Ozzie. "Thanks Ozzie, we couldn't have done this without you." I hugged him tightly. "I'm just glad you were hear to celebrate with us." I looked around for Morgan, but she found me first. "Do you believe this?!" She practically screamed. I felt my phone vibrate, "Hold on a second." I told Morgan.

"Sidney!" I yelled. Covering my other ear from all the noise.
"Well, look who were facing in the finals."
"It's going to be great."
"Come see me sometime. We should talk."
"Ok."
"What going on with you and Howard?"
"Sidney... your a hockey heartthrob. Still no girlfriend?"
"Nah,"
"Tell me Sid, how many girls have you laid in the past month?"
He laughed "Just a few."
"You're such a lier. I bet you like those puck bunnies."
"Hell no!"
"Listen, we can talk later. I have to go celebrate. Bye Sid."
"Bye Madi."

Forever and Ever;;37

The next morning, while I was unloading the last boxes from the car, Aaron came up from behind me. "Hey!" His voice made me jump. I turned around quickly and handed him a box. "Take this in for me. Please? He shook his head and sat the box on the ground. "What am I your maid?" I grin spread across my face. "You can be!" He picked me up and threw me on his back, and started running threw the yard. We were getting a bunch of weird looks from people across the street.





But before I could tell Aaron to put me down, I was on the ground. An unbelievable amount of pain shooting threw my foot. I looked down, when Aaron had dropped me, my foot had also gotten wrapped up in the same garden house Aaron had tripped over a day earlier. I tried to get my composure back and stand up, but all I did was fall back down.



Aaron held out his hand, "Are you alright?" I shook my head, "I don't know, I can't put alot of pressure on it." "Is that the same one I tripped over yesterday?" I smiled, knowing it was the same one Aaron tripped over made me not feel as much of a klutz. I laughed, "Yeah, this would be the one." We sat there in the grass for a few minutes just laughing. But, I couldn't just ignore the pain in my foot. I looked down at it one more time to notice it had gotten black and blue. "That looks bad," Aaron told me. "You should get it checked out." "Ill tough it out." "I have had alot of broken bones in my day... I'm serious, It needs checked out." Just as he finished, Jimmy pulled up in the driveway, and walked over to where we were sitting, "What's.... going on?"



I pointed towards my foot, "That's whats going on." "You need to get that checked out."

Before I knew it Aaron was lifting me up off the ground and sat me in the back seat of his car. "Guys, Ill be fine!" They were taking me against my will. I didn't feel like going to sit in a emergency room for hours. They insisted I go though. I swear we sat in the hospital for over two hours. I was actually happy that they had taken me though. I later found out that I had fractured my foot. I would be in crutches at least a month and a half. They put a cast on my foot, that came up below my knee. "How tall are you? The nurse asked. "5'2" I continued to play with my hair. I couldn't believe this had happened. Just then my parents walked in, along with Morgan and Val. I told Jimmy not to call anyone, I was fine. I guess he didn't listen. Val starting talking to Jimmy and Aaron, while Morgan came and sat on the bed next to me. "What happened?"My dad asked, sounding concerned.

"It's just a fracture" I told him. "I don't really feel like explaining what happened right now. I'm tired and want to get out of here." the nurse handed me my crutches and said I was free to go. "Thank God." I said to myself. They guys were flying to Dallas for the last game that night. Either we won it and were going to the Stanley Cup Finals , or we were coming back home to play them again. Nothing was holding me back from going on that trip. Nothing.

Forever and Ever;;36

I had my doctors appointment the next morning. I had woken up with a huge knot in my stomach. I had been dreading this moment for the past few days. As I was pulling a sweatshirt over my head, I felt Jimmy's hands crawl around my waist. And he kissed my neck.

"Do you want me to come with you?" He asked.

I shook my head. "No. You have a game to get ready for tonight. I'll be fine."

"Alright. But no matter what happens, I'm going to be happy for us either way."

I smiled slightly. But, I could see the concern in his eyes. He was happy, but worried at the same time. Jimmy being happy about this meant the world to me.

***

Once I got to the doctors office, they called my name right away. I sat in the small room, looking out the window. I was thinking about a million different things at once. My train of thought was interrupted buy the door opening. The doctor had a blank expression on his face. So i couldn't really tell what he was thinking. "How are you doing today?" He asked as he opened his manila folder. "Alright, I guess." He looked at the folder and then back up at me. "Well... Your not pregnant." He told me. I look off shock was planted across my face. I had been 99% sure I was. "We think your cycle is off right now. If you don't get it within the next few months, we want to see you back.

I wasn't getting in all he was saying. I had never heard of anything like this before. It was ridiculus. The only other thing I managed to say was "Oh." I walked to the front desk where the blond set up another appointment. I drove my way home, still utterly confused. I walked through the door of the apartment where Jimmy bombarded me questions. "Well!" he finally asked. "He didn't tell me alot. I'm not pregnant. But something could show up in a few months. He stood there for a second, like I was going to say something more. I threw my hands up at him. "That's all! No need to show any emotion!" "Sorry."

"Yeah... me too."

"I think I have something that will cheer you up." He told me.

***

Before I knew tit we were driving into a new subdivision closet to the apartment. My heart raced, even though I didn't know what was going on. We pulled up to a rather large house, that was a light blue color. "Welcome home."

"No way.. and you didn't tell me?" I opened up the passenger door.

"It was supposed to be a surprise."

"It's amazing." I glanced over at the house next to us, there was a car parked in the drive way that looked exactly like Aaron's.

"Oh," Jimmy said "Say hello to the new neighbors." When he finished I turned my attention to that house again. I laughed as I saw Aaron trip on a garden house as he walked over. And Meech pushed him. "Oh god.... No way!"

"They're the new neighbors?" I asked Jimmy.

Aaron wrapped me in a hug. "We sure are!" This... would be interesting.

Forever and Ever;;35

Finally, Ozzie got up slowly after a few minutes. There was alot of mixed feeling about the hit. You can think what you want, but even if Ozzie did do something to Ribeiro, you don't slash someone like that. He took two nights of frustration out on Ozzie. But things only got better in game three. Datsyuk got a hat trick to help us win the game 5-2. I had a deep gut feeling that we wern't going to be able to sweep Dallas. They were too good of a team. I was pretty sure they would get a win in game four. Little did I know, I was right. Homer's rear end got in the way to much and drew the Ref's attention. They were watching his every move. In the second period the Ref's waved of a goal by Pavel, saying that Holmstrom rear interfered with Turco. Which he didn't.

I was sick of being in Dallas. I just wanted to go home and get this series over and done with. The sires lasted longer than I expected. We lost again in game five. Mostly because of bad line changes, and Turco was amazing. He got his first career win at the Joe.
I walked down the hallway, surrounded by pictures of many of the old time Red Wings. I stopped at Stevie Y's picture. I missed him. Right now was a time when we needed him most. He always knew the right things to say at times like this. He never game himself credit. It was always a team effort to him. Stevie deserved to win another cup with us. I was sad he wasn't out there playing with the guys.

I walked down the rest of the hallway where I found a ton of reporters who surrounded me. "Miss Maltby, can we get a comment about the past few games?" One asked. I usually tried to avoid reporter unless they were Mickey, Ken, or Larry. but, I had nothing else better to do and I knew they guys were going to be in a bad mood. I sighed. "Well, the past few games have been really tough on the guys, but we will pull through."I left them at that and pushed past the all to familiar door. The room was silent, which I hated. i walked past Aaron and over to Homer. "God, your ass his huge. Just kidding. Those calls were ridicules."
"No kidding." He muttered. The only other thing he managed to say was "I should lose weight." Same old Homer. Was able to make a joke out of anything. I walked to where Morgan and Val were sitting.
"Hey!" I screeched. Morgan jumped and and gave me a hug.
"We need to do something and soon." She told me.
I was about to say something when Jimmy was tugging on my jersey, ready to leave.
"Ill call you" I told her, and walked out the door.
***

Forever and Ever;;34

I tried to take what Jimmy said, and make myself feel better about the whole situation. But it wasn't really helping. What he said kept running through my mind, over and over again. I'm thinking about going back to Grand Rapids. I tried to take my mind off of it, but nothing seemed to help. I was hoping I would soon forget.

I woke up the next morning with a terrible stomach ache. I still hadn't gotten my period. So it was time to go to the doctor. I told Jimmy where I was going. He seemed concerned. We had been so careful. Nothing like this was supposed to happen.

I walked into the cold doctors office, which was full off little kids and prenant women. I took a deep breath and sat on a blue leather couch. I watched most of the kids run around and play with toys while I sat there. I loved kids, but I wasn't ready to have one of my own just yet. I was hoping I was just off. And it would be no big deal. I expected the worst.
As time went by I started to feel more uncomfortable sitting there. Finally they called my name. I was in such a daze I jumped. I sat up on the doctors table, and waited. Finally or a tall, dark haired male, stood in front of me.
"What can I do for you today hun?" He asked.
"Uhm, well you see. I'm about two and a half weeks late. I have been having terrible stomach aches also."
"Well let me see what I can do for you then."
I nodded and he took blood from my right arm.
"You're all set hun. We will call you within the next few days."

On the drive home my mind went crazy. How do I tell my parents. What will they say. Maybe I'm not even pregnant. I didn't know who to tell or how to act. Be excited or be scared. The only thing I knew for sure was that I was going to dread the next couple of days. But I had to get through them, one way or another.
***
That night before the game I sat at the locker next to Aaron.
"Are you alright?" He asked "You look really pale."
My face brightened "I'm great!" Aaron could see right through me. He knew something was wrong. He shook his head. "Tell me." I looked around the locker room and then leaned into Aaron. My lips brushed against his ear. "I think I'm pregnant."
"No way!" He laughed.
"Its really not funny."
"Who have you told?"
"Just you and Jimmy. I plan on telling Morgan." Just then Babs called the guys to the bench. Aaron stood up "We'll talk later." "Okay."
We beat Dallas again that night 2-1. At the end off the game I focused my attention on Ozzie. Just then Mike Rabeiro skated towards Ozzie and hit him with a two handed slash and he fell to the ice. The referee blew the whistle and Draper roughed up Ribeiro behind the net. It was completely uncalled for. I got out of my seat and started danging on the glass, like everyone around me. I noticed the broken stick on the ice and Ozzie still down. Was this Jimmy's chance?

Forever and Ever;;33

That night we played Dallas. This was where we got set back the previous season against Anaheim. I was really hoping we wouldn't have a repeat. Jimmy and I hadn't talked at all that day. Sure we crossed paths but he didn't dare to say anything to me. He probably thought all of this was going to blow over. But it wasn't.



That night against Dallas I walked into the locker from after the pre-game skate. I sat next to Jimmy, not saying anything to him. I turned my attention to the door where Ozzie came in. He squirted me with his water bottle. "Get up." He said with a huge grin. I was sitting at his locker. I shook my head "No! You can sit your ass on the ground." I had always messed with Ozzie like that. He picked on me ever since I was little. He looked around for a second, and sat down on the ground, and started taking off his skates. I laughed and he glared back at me. "I'll get you back don't worry." "Sure NOgood."


I looked over at Jimmy who hadn't said a word to me that whole day. "Let's talk later. Alright?" I asked him. He sent me a small smile and said "Okay." Before he had to head to the ice I wrapped him a warm hug. I pulled back and he kissed my forehead. "I'll be watching."I assured him.


That night was rough but we did come out and beat Dallas in a huge 4-1 win. That was a way to open a series. My stomach hurt through the whole game. I wanted to get home and talk to Jimmy about Grand Rapids, but I knew it wasn't going to be pretty.

***

Once we got back to the apartment that night. i sat down on the bed and waited for Jimmy.

"Tell me what's going on?" I asked him.

"I'm not planning on going to GR. I was just thinking, that if Detroit doesn't want me back next season that's where I might go."

"Seriously, I used to know your every thought. Now I don't even know what goes on in that head of yours!"

"I'm sorry."

"I really wish sorry fixed things."

"You know I would never pick hockey over you."

"Dont say that. You career is nore important than me. And I expect it to be."

"It never is, or will be."

Forever and Ever;;32

I woke up the next morning for find the bedroom door still closed. I sighed and sat up. Since I had knowone to play hockey with I decided to go running. I walked into the bedroom to find Jimmy half asleep. I walked over to my part of the closet and took out a pair of shorts and a Red Wings hoodie. I looked over at Jimmy who motined for me to come and lay with him. I ran my fingers through my curly hair and shook my head "No".

"Come on!" He said.

I shook my head again. "You know Jimmy. I guess I know how much I mean to you. And everything we have been through together is a joke."

"I sorry. Its just...."

I didn't want to hear his point of view about it. He had been pretty straight forward about it last night.

"Save it Jimmy." And I closed the door behind me.

I put my head phones in my ears and began running. It had been a while but I could still do distance. I did alot of thinking. If Jimmy wants to go back to GR then I shouldn't keep him from doing it. Its his carrer not mine. Before I knew it I was standing in front of the Gordie Howe entrence at the Joe. The Joe wasn't that far from our apartment. Threee miles maybe. I stood there with mt hands on my hips just looking at it. So many memories had veen made there. I can't go with him. My whole life is here. I thought to myself again. My mind was telling me to go in, play some hockey. My body was telling me no. But right now, I had no energy to play hockey. I was just too worn out. Physiclly and emotionally. I sat myself down on the steps and burried my face in my knees.

I sat there for a few minutes before I felt someone tap my shoulder. I turned around to see our zambonie driver Al.

"You want in?" He asked.

"Sure."

Al unlocked the doors from me. And I walked into the locker room. I turned my attention to Jimmys locker. I took a picture off one of the magnets a staired at it. It was the two of us. Some night when we went out with the guys. Jimmy was sitting on a bar stool and I was sitting on his lap. I picked up the next one. It was of Meech, Aaron, Jimmy and I. I had my hands on my hips as the rest of the guys surronded me making funny faces, I couldn't help but laugh. It was probably my favorite picture of all time. I walked past Aaron's locker to see a bunch of photos also. He had a ton of us together. And a few when we were with the guys. Leaving Detroit...was not something I wanted to do.

Forever and Ever;;31

After sweeping the Avs those nights, we got on Red Bird II and went back home to Detroit. I decided to go to my parents house for a while. As soon as I walked in the door my four year old sister Ella ran up to me and gave me a big hug. Even though she was four she was my biggest fan. "I made this for you!" She told me as she handed me a picture she had colored. "Oh its so pretty." I said while picking her up. And she gave me that same look she had given me since she was four months old. I glanced over at my mom Wendy who was having twins in July. She was getting big. I put Ella down and ran over to her. Gave her a hug, and put my ear down to he stomach, so I could hear them kick. I stayed at the house the rest of the day playing with El. She wanted to show me all of her new toys. So I willingly let her. My dad had already had Ella on skates when she was two. So by four she didn't skate to bad for her age.

I walked into the kitchen as my mom was doing dishes. "Hey Mom?"

"Yeah hun?"

"Where's Justin?"

"I never know where that boy is anymore. Probably out playing hockey somewhere.Why?"

"I haven't talked to him in months."

I gave my mom, dad, and Ella hugs before I left. I looked down at my phone. It was ten and Jimmy hadn't called once which is strange. If I wasn't at the apartment, he always called. Once I got inside I noticed a six pack on the counter. 'Great' I thought. 'This will be fun.' I walked into the bedroom to find Jimmy sitting on the bed.

"Hey babe." I said.

He didn't even say anything. Didn't even look at me.

"Okay Jimmy. What your deal lately?"

"What are you talking about?" He began to get snappy.

"You don't call me anymore. You never want to do anything. You won't even play hockey with me!"

"I have been doing alot of thinking lately."

"And...."

"I'm been thinking about going back to Grand Rapids."

"What?" I screamed.

"I'm sick of not getting that much playing time. If I was in GR then I would be getting a ton more."

"Jimmy guys dream of being in the NHL you don't know how lucky you are. If you're going to Grand Rapids, you know I'm not coming with you."

"I know...."

My jaw dropped. I took a pillow from the bed and slammed the door behind me. I camped out on the couch the rest of the night.

Forever and Ever;;30

"What do you mean?" he asks.

"What do you mean, what do I mean?" I paused. "Oh my god, I'm not even making any sense!"

Jimmy puts his arm over my shoulder. "Just tell me what's going on?"

"Its exactly what I said. I'm late."

He looks down at the floor and then back up at me.

"Listen. I'm going to wait a week and if I don't get it, then I will go to the doctor. No worries!"

"Alright."

***

The first two games against the Avs went well. And we beat them in both games. And when we went to Colorado, things didn't change. The first night we were in Colorado I sat in the hotel room flipping through channels. My cell phone starting playing "Uhh me so horny" It was my ring tone for Aaron now.It fit him pretty well. I saw Jimmy give me a weird look from across the room. I laughed and picked up the phone.

"Hey loser." I said.

"Hey slut. Want to get a bite to eat with the guys?"

"Sure. Give me five minutes."

"Ok I will see you down in the lobby. Hey, since when do you not moan when you hear me on the phone. I know my voice is pretty sexy."

I shook my head. "See you in five"

I threw on a light green tank top and black pants.

"Ohh Hot Howie!" I yelled.

"Yeah?"

"I'm going to get a bite with the guys. You want to come?"

"Nah, go ahead."

I was almost shocked. He had always came along when the guys and I went places. For now I shrugged it off and got in the elevator down to the lobby. When I got there I saw Aaron, Derek, Ozzie, Homer, Johan, Sammy, and Nick.

"Homer!" I jumped his back. "For sure." He said. I laughed. I had always made fun of him for saying 'for sure' too much.

Aaron couldn't have picked a worse place to go. It was filled with Avs fans. After we got our meal and had been talking for awhile. I heard someone yell from across the room "Detroit still sucks!" Aaron had been sitting across from me so he must have knew who said it. He pushed out his chair and stood up. "If you got something to say, let's take it outside!" I buried my face in my hands as we walked out of the restaurant. He was getting in the guys face so I took his arm trying to hold him back, but he shook it free.

I flinched and said "Ohhh" as Aaron punched him and he fell to the concrete. I came around to stand in front of Aaron.

"Don't mess with a hockey player bitch!" He yelled

"Aaron! They're going to call the cops. Lets get out of here."

He agreed and we ran to the cars. I couldn't help but uncontrollably laugh when we got in the car. Aaron was breathing heavily as if he had just ran a mile.

"That felt good."

Forever and Ever;;29

I saw a note hung by a magnet on the fridge.


Madison, went to practice early. Be home around two. Love, Jimmy.





I ran into the bathroom and searched through the cabinets trying to find cough drops. No such luck. I threw on a old pair of sweatpants and a wings hoodie headed to the drugstore. I searched up and down the aisle from cough drops but came across the 'feminine products'.


"Oh god." I thought to myself. "How late am I?"


I counted the weeks since my last. I was a week and a half late. Not good......





Once I got back to the apartment I sat down on the couch with a million thoughts going through my head. I can't have a baby. There's no way I'm pregnant. How could this happen? Whats Jimmy going to say. I tried to take my mind off of it but nothing helped. Hockey. That's what would help. I backed up all of my equipment into the back of the car and headed down to a local rink. I ended up playing with a few teenagers who needed a goalie. I was happy to help them win. Even though the cold are made my throat feel like it was on fire.


***


Once I got back I noticed Jimmy sitting on the couch watching Miracle. He paused the movie and got up to give me a hug. I pushed past him into the bedroom where I threw down my hockey stuff.


"What's wrong?"


"Nothing!" I screamed.


"Is it that time of the month again or something?"


I long and awkward silence followed.

"It's supposed to be." I told him