Aberleigh-
I walked around the business space I could finally call mine and smiled in satisfaction at what had already been completed.
“Lookin' good, Abby!” Braeden's voice carried over as he checked out one of the small offices off the main room. “Which one's mine?”
“The one that's at your house, Brae... Who said I was going to hire you? What would you do?” I laughed at him as he shrugged.
“HR? Come on Abby! Please?” He slid on his knees across the marble to grab onto my high-waisted skirt.
“FINE!” I laughed, “but I have to approve any hires, Braeden. This isn't a free ride. It's my life.” He jumped to his feet and saluted me briskly. “So, I guess I can give you these.” I grinned handing him a large pile of papers. “I need two reps and a receptionist ready to start in two weeks. Call me when you've got the interviews set up.” His smile dropped causing my grin to grow.
“Well... Dad would be proud.” He mumbled before catching my glare. “What? Abby you can't stay mad at Dad forever.”
“I can... and I might.” I nodded going back to check out my office. I ran my fingers across the deep oak of my desk and stared out the window at the picturesque view of Pittsburgh, home.
“You are definitely his daughter, Aberleigh Michaels...” Braeden sighed behind me. I shook my head gently.
“Have you talked to them?” I turned back to look at him as he shook his head slowly.
“Mom's joined up with him, she thinks Marc's too poor. Her words!” He held up his hands in defense as my glare intensified. “Look, Abby... They're crazy. Marc's a great guy. They'd be lucky to have him for a son-in-law. Besides, you're happy with him. Who cares?!” My face softened as I crossed the room to give him a tight hug.
“Thanks, Brae...” I smiled against him. “Take the office next door. It has an awesome view too.”
“Thanks, Abby!” He kissed the top of my head and ran out. “I'll try and have it narrowed down to a few interviews for just after New Years okay?” I nodded absently as he left the building. New Years... Shit! I need a dress for the party! Danielle was supposed to meet me at the house in twenty minutes!
I ran down the stairs and into my own car before speeding off.
Danielle and I pulled up to my house at the same time, causing me to wave at Kris as Dani jumped out of his Lexus.
“Okay, let's go...” She grinned as she climbed into my car.
“You two looked awfully cozy.” I grinned as I sped towards the mall, glancing at her as she blushed.
“It's good... I think.” Her smile grew as we pulled into the parking lot. “He makes me pretty happy.”
“I'm happy if you're happy, Dani.” I smiled as we rushed out of the cold and into the heated building.
“So, how was Christmas?” She glanced sideways at me as I shrugged flipping through racks and racks of dresses.
“Besides his sister absolutely hating me, it was good.” I looked at her out of the corner of my eye and laughed as she stared at me skeptically. “What?”
“It was good? Wasn't she there?” She lowered her voice as I pulled two dresses off the rack.
“Yes, Danielle, Vero was there... She's actually a really sweet person.” I stopped as Dani stared at me agape. “What? I can't like my boyfriend's ex?”
“NO! You can't! Aberleigh, this woman was with Marc for ten years! You don't think she's holding onto him?”
“No I don't... She's seeing someone else. Pierre somebody. She seems happy... And I like her. She's a good person.” I shrugged as I headed towards the dressing rooms. Danielle sighed at me as she followed. I tried on the dresses not finding anything I liked, nothing fit well. Danielle, on the other hand, found a gorgeous champagne coloured, chiffon dress that she bought on the spot, before I dragged her out of the store. My phone rang steps in front of the next store. I glanced at the number and it wasn't one I recognized. “Hello?” I called as I went over to the silk.
“Abby?” A soft voice whispered at me. “Abby, is that you?”
“Vero?” I asked incredulously. “Vero what's going on?”
“Ummm... I just wanted someone to talk to. Someone, non-judgmental.” She sniffed into the phone. I gave Dani a worried glance as I sat on one of the benches.
“Ok... What's wrong?”
“Pierre and I just had a fight. It was pretty bad...” Her voice broke as she tried to keep her composure.
“What did you fight about?” Marc's words from the plane echoed through my head "He used to date a girl and... suddenly she started coming to school with bruises and cuts and... then one day she ended up in the ER. When the guys on the team asked him about it he acted like it was no big deal, said that she had it 'coming to her'...” I had never before in the time I've known Marc wanted him to be wrong.
“I don't know...” She sobbed. “The house... Dinner... I can't remember!”
“Vero, what happened?” I took a deep breath to try and control my own breathing. Dani had stopped looking for my dress and sat next to me, a worried glance pasted on her face.
“He.. I...” She sobbed through the phone for a minute before collecting herself. “I don't know what to do... Where to go...”
“Here.” The words were out of my mouth before I could think about what I was saying. Dani sat next to me shaking her head wildly. “We have an extra bed. Vero, if you need to get out, go. Come here.”
“Marc won't be angry?” She whimpered into the enforcing my resolve to have her come here.
“The only two people he can be mad at for this are me and Pierre, Vero. Don't worry about it.”
“Thanks, Abby. I'm going to talk to him before I decide anything. Once he's calmed down.” She sniffed softly, but I could hear the calmness in her voice.
“Be safe, Vero.” I smiled as we signed off.
“Are you insane???” Danielle demanded as I pulled out a simple white dress, my eyes glistening, this is it. “That's his ex you just invited!”
“I know... And she needed an option on a safe place to go, if it came to that. I gave her one.” I shrugged sliding into a change room.
“You are insane...” She sighed as I stepped out to see it in the mirrors. It was perfect! “That's it...” She grinned as I nodded. “Marc's jaw is going to hit the floor when he sees you in that dress.” I turned to go and change as I glanced over my shoulder.
“That's kind of the plan, Dani.” She giggled as I winked before disappearing into the dressing room.
I walked up the stars and grinned widely at the sight of the brand new deadbolt situated in the front door. Marc installed it, yes! I grinned the whole way up the stairs and into our room as I hung the dress in the closet for the following day. I turned back briefly to find Marc already lying in bed with Cooper curled up at his feet, flipping through channels. I guess drinks at Dani's went later then I thought. I quickly changed into my cami and boy shorts and disappeared to wash my face before climbing into be next to him.
“I noticed the new addition to the front door.” I laughed as he pulled me tightly against him.
“Mmhmm... you enjoy my handy work?” He grinned as he began to kiss my jaw, trailing softly onto my neck, earning a soft moan. I closed my eyes softly as he began to move lower when I felt something warm by my legs. My eyes snapped open as I looked to the end of the bed to find Cooper with his leg up and peeing right on my brand new duvet cover.
"Oh no! Cooper!” I gasped shoving Marc away. “Damn, he just peed the bed!” I groaned futilely as I jumped up and gathered the duvet and Cooper up and started downstairs. I gave Marc a fruitless glare as I left the room. He's lucky I wasn't making him walk Cooper. “How could you mutt?” I groaned as he looked up at me with those big brown eyes. “Oh, Coop... I'm not mad at you.” I sighed setting him down next to his crate. “But you have to stay down here tonight. You can't pee the bed.” He nuzzled against my legs as I separated the duvet from the cover, shoving them into the washing machine. “Fine...” I groaned before taking him upstairs and letting him out the back door. “Go quickly, Cooper. It's cold!” Five minutes later Cooper and I trudged back upstairs to find Marc curled under a new blanket. I slipped under the blanket, curling up against him for heat.
“Brr... You're frozen woman!” He whispered at me as I kissed the back of his neck chuckling.
“Blame your dog...” I yawned, Cooper curling up on the ground next to us.
The next morning I stared at our empty living room as Cooper dropped Marc's catcher glove at my feet.
“Cooper...” I sighed picking it up off the floor. “What are we going to do with you?” I shook my head as Marc came through the living room, searching.
“Where is he?” He grumbled under his breath as Cooper quietly hid behind me, his tail between his legs.
“Here's your glove Marc.” I held it out to him as he glanced up at me shocked. “Go... have a good game, and when you get home, everything should be ready.” I grinned kissing him gently.
“And I get to see your dress?” His own smile growing, forgetting about the mischievous Cooper.
“If you're lucky...” I chuckled as his eyes shone. Kissing me one last time before he ran out the door.
I heard Marc come through the door as I tried to quickly finish curling my hair.
“Marc!” I called down to him. “I need you to come zip up my dress!” I chuckled as I heard him dash up the stairs and into the room.
“Wow...” He breathed as I smoothed the silk down my sides, as I blushed deeply.
“Can you zip me, please?” I whispered, turning my back to him and lifting my hair away from the dress. I sighed deeply as his hands trailed down my sides.
“We don't have to have the party...” He whispered into my hair causing me to laugh.
“Too late...” I heard him groan as the door bell rang. “You better get ready Casanova. Our guests have arrived.” I laughed as I ran down the stairs and pulled it open to find Jordan, Heather, Max, Geno, TK and Amanda all gathered on the front steps.
“New lock, Abbs? How mean...” Max pouted as I let them through the door and into the living room.
“Nice decorations...” Heather nodded at the balloons and streamers hung up throughout the room.
“Thanks.” I smiled as I held the door open for Kris and Dani who were headed up the walkway.
“Nicely done, Abbs.” Kris grinned as he kissed my cheek before hanging up his coat and Dani's. Five minutes later I found the living room was jam packed with people, music playing loudly and the TV on slight for Time Square's New Years Bash!
“So, Abbs, how'd you pull this off so fast?” Max asked as Marc wrapped his arm around my shoulders.
“Easy, Max... I hired Keebler Elves to do it.” I grinned.
“Yah... Meet Elf number one.” Braeden called from behind the bar.
“And two.” Dani grumbled as everyone else laughed. Moments later the laughter turned to gushing as Cooper came dashing through the crowd, something hanging from his-- Oh god... That's my bra! My mind screamed as he dropped the royal blue lace bra emphatically on Marc. I blushed deeply hiding my face against Marc's shoulder, and Marc quickly pulled the bra behind his back.
"Cooper, no." He scolded the puppy softly.
“Geesh! You invited me over this time! You could at least wait until I leave...” Max grinned wickedly as Marc threw a balled up napkin at his head. “Hey! I'm just sayin'!”
“Shh!” Amanda called as she turned to the TV. “Cut the music! The count down's on!” Braeden clicked off the music as Marc turned up the volume on the TV.
“10...9...8...7...6...5...4...3..2...1” We all shouted at the TV, those in couples clutching to each other's significant others. “Happy New Years!!!” Half the people cried as Marc's lips crashed onto mind. I wrapped my fingers into the curls at the base of his head as I deepened the kiss before Braeden came up right at our ears and blew a noise maker.
“Damn it, Braeden!” I yelled jumping away from Marc and clutching my ear. Max grinned and high-fived Braeden as he went back to turn on the music again.
An hour later I moved to the door to kick the last of our guests, being my brother, Geno, Jordan, Heather and Max, out of my house.
“You know I thought this over... and if you really want me to... I can...” He grinned widely as Geno chuckled heading down my sidewalk, I shook my head slowly. “Just watch?” I laughed softly.
“Get out, Max...” Jordan sighed, pushing him gently out the door, with his arms wrapped around Heather's waist.
“Come on, buddy... We'll getcha your own...” I smiled in thanks as they finally left my doorway. I closed the door and turned the deadbolt before slowly making my way back to Marc sitting on the couch.
“It's finally over...” I yawned behind my hand, placing my head gently on his shoulder.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Not Another Locker-Room Story
I opened the door slowly and glanced at Abby. She was hugging her knees to her chest as she sat in the tub. I could see slight bruises forming on different parts of her exposed skin; tears flowing down her face. “What happened?” I asked quietly as I walked towards her, kneeling down next to the tub.
“I was pelted with ice blocks since the stupid game started. If that's your idea of fun, Marc, you can have your fun without me!” She snapped at me, as I reached out for her arm; gently rubbing my thumb along one of the bruises.
“Mary...” I said angrily, bringing my eyes back up to hers. “Abby, I'm sorry. Marylene was out of hand. There's not supposed to be any ice used. She's young, and naive... And I don't care what she thinks of you. I love you.” Oh shit! I did not just say that…
“You love me?” She whispered softly, her eyes wide.
I didn‘t know what to say. I expected her to laugh at me but she didn‘t. “Do you love me?” I asked slowly, trying to not let my voice crack. She put her hands around my face, pulling me towards her. I kissed her passionately as she pulled back, just enough to respond.
“I love you Marc-Andre Fleury.”
“I love you too Aberleigh Michaels. More than you could ever know.” I grinned into her as I allowed her to pull me closer. I felt giddy, happy, ecstatic.
“Marc? Aberleigh? Someone has something she'd like to tell you both!” I heard my dad’s voice call up from somewhere in the house. I let out a deep sigh as I pulled away from Abby. I just can’t get a break here… Abby started to laugh as she climbed out of the tub.
I got up and grabbed her a towel. If we were going downstairs there was no way I could see her naked… if I do, Dad’s gonna be waiting for a long time…
Lucky for Dad, unlucky for me; Abby dressed quickly and followed me downstairs. I clutched her hand in mine as I saw Mary standing beside my father; looking ashamed.
“What Mary?” I spat, as I pulled Abby behind me - protectively.
Mary looked up, but didn’t say anything; dad gave her a slight nudge with his elbow. Sighing she finally started to talk. “I just wanted to say that I’m sorry for what I did outside…”
“Well you should be!” I normally didn’t yell at Mary - I normally didn’t yell at anyone but, I just couldn’t help it. I hadn’t seeing Abby hurt, I hated knowing the purpose behind it even more.
“Marc…” Abby said quietly grabbing my arm and stepping forward to stand beside me. “Don’t yell at her…”
“Abby look at what she did to you!” I turned my attention back to Mary, “I know that you’re upset but you can’t do something like this Mary!”
“I know, I’m sorry.” I let out a sigh and shook my head, she just didn’t understand. “It just… it’s so unfair!”
I felt Abby stiffen beside me as Mary started to cry into her hands; my father pulling her under his arm and signalling to me that this discussion was over. I turned to leave but Abby held me in place. “What’s she talking about Marc?”
“They were suppose to get married! I was gonna be a bride’s maid! She loves him… they’ve been together forever and they were suppose to stay that way!” She didn’t take a breath as the rage began to pour out of her. “Everything was perfect till you came! If it wasn’t for you then none of this wouldn’t have happened… putain!”
“Hey!” My dad yelled, pulling Mary out of the room behind him.
“What did she call me?” Abby said softly, renewed tears falling from her eyes.
I pulled her against my chest and kissed her forehead softly. “It doesn’t matter Abby, let’s just go to my room for a bit until she cools down ok?” She nodded against me as I led her down the hallway.
We laid on my bed for a while; Abby nuzzled into my side as I stroked her hair with my hand. “Did you know? That she felt like that, I mean?”
I nodded slowly, trying to find the right words. “It’s got nothing to do with you personally Abby… she just, always thought I’d end up with Vero.” I sighed softly, trying to find the right words. “She thinks that Vero was the only person who would ever make me happy; and she’s too irrational to realize that I’m happy with you… she just needs some time.”
“It still sucks though.” Abby sighed after a while, causing me to laugh loudly.
“Well I still love you… I guess you don’t care about that anymore though…” I let out a mock sigh of disappointment as she started to giggle; stopping abruptly as someone knocked at the door.
The door opened a crack, revealing Mary standing on the other side. “What now?” I asked, trying to remain civil.
“Can I come in?” I looked down at Abby, she nodded timidly. “I just… wanted to say sorry… for real this time.” She took a step in and stared at Abby and I for a minute before continuing. “I was out of line, and I’m sorry. Vero’s been in my life for as long as I can remember and I just always thought she’d be my sister someday. I know that what happened between them wasn’t your fault and, I’ll try to remember that and not be so awful.”
It was clear that she was still upset but, at least she looked like she now had things under control. I smiled down at Abby, hoping that this would make her a bit more happy.
She grinned slightly as she looked up at me. “So what do you say Abby… if we get married are you gonna let Mary be in the wedding party?”
Her laugh bordering on hysterics she nodded and looked back at Mary. “As long as you want to be…” Mary smiled in response and headed back out the door, closing it softly behind her.
I felt a nudge in my ribs and I looked down at Abby, who looked like she was going to go into shock.
“Are you ok? That was a good thing right… her apologising?” She watched me for a second before nodding.
“Yah, of course… sorry I zoned out.” Wedding comment… too much?
We were sitting in first class on the airplane, flying back to Pittsburgh when it hit me. We were going home. We were heading back to our house, with our puppy… What has this girl done to me? I wasn’t one to fear commitment, obviously, but I had been with Vero for almost ten years and even we never bought a puppy.
It had even seen like a big deal at the time; Sidney and I had been driving through town when I saw Cooper in the window and thought Abby would love him. Now that I thought about it though, I realized what a huge step it had been.
“So… do you not like this Pierre guy?” Abby asked suddenly, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I turned to look at her, realizing that she was picking at a loose thread on her sweater - nervously. “Umm… no I don’t. Why?”
“Is it because he’s dating Vero?” I sighed and chuckled quietly to myself, she had no idea how far she was from the truth.
“No… I’m obviously not excited that she would be foolish enough to date someone like him but… that’s not why I don’t like him.” She finally looked up, confusion still evident on her face. “He’s not a good person." I answered quietly. "I use to play hockey with him and, he was always an ass but, it wasn’t until high school that we really stopped getting along.
He use to date a girl and... suddenly she started coming to school with bruises and cuts and… then one day she ended up in the ER. When the guys on the team asked him about he acted like it was no big deal, said that she had it ’coming to her’… I got into a fight with him and we just… never talked again after that.”
Her mouth had formed a small ’o’ and the sight made me laugh again as I threw my arm over her shoulder and pulled her closer. “Baby you have nothing to worry about… I’m all yours…” She nodded, giving me a smile as she put her head on my shoulder.
“No Cooper, no Cooper, no!” I yelled as I took off down the hall. “Cooper come on… Daddy needs his blocker back!” I almost killed myself as I half-fell down the stairs. “Come on buddy! Look I got your monkey…” I waggled the torn stuffed monkey in front of myself as Cooper and I stood at a standoff in the living room. I heard the front door open behind me but I didn’t bother to turn around; I cringed as Coopers teeth tore through the soft padding on my blocker. “Give it to Daddy Cooper, come on…”
“He’s too cute to be yours… I think Abby cheated…“ I turned to see Max standing in the doorway, flanked by Geno, Sidney and Jordan.
“Hey guys… how’s it goin?” I turned back around, remembering about Cooper; and catching a glimpse of him disappearing down the hallway again. “Shit!”
“So… Abby likes him then?” Sidney chuckled as he flopped down on the couch.
I hopped over the couch and nodded from beside him. “A lot yah but, apparently he likes my gear more…” They all laughed at that as the rest of the guys sat down, turning on the TV and hauling out the Xbox.
Six games into NHL and I had to ask Sidney the question I was dying to ask him. “Hey Sid… you like Abby, right?”
“Sure… why?”
“I don’t know… just wondering…” I said, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible.
“No! No way man… come on!” At first I thought Jordan was mad at the game, but his glare turned around to me. “I know that tone of voice… it’s the same damn tone Eric got before he proposed to Tanya.”
Max nearly choked on his pop. “I’m sorry what!?” He sputtered, flipping his head back and forth between Jordan and I. “Proposed? As in married?” He spat the last word, like it was a disgusting disease. “You just got out of a ten year relationship and now you want to get married to a girl you’ve been dating for what? Two months? Three?”
“Are you serious?” I looked over at Sidney; the only person in the room that was smiling. “That’s awesome, Flower. I think it’s a great idea!”
“A what? Ok no… don’t listen to him… I shit-you-not, this is a bad decision.”
“I haven’t decided anything! I never said I was going to, I just… wanted to know what you guys thought.” I regretted saying anything immediately; at least Sidney seemed please.
“Look don’t get me wrong, I think Abby’s a great girl but… why ruin a good thing? Asking her this soon might just freak her out, and then where would you be?” Max grinned like he had just solved all the world’s problems with his wisdom. Note to self, never ask Max anything about Abby, ever, again… “I still can’t figure out where this came from though… is the sex that good? Oh… the sex is that good isn’t it?”
“I’ve never even heard you say anything about it! Dude… spill it…” Jordan lost all abandon and threw his controller over his shoulder, leaning his body towards me.
“Guys come on… not now… it’s none of your business-”
“She’s kinky isn’t she? Oh man, now I need to know!” Max shouted, cutting me off and high-fiving Jordan.
I sighed and shook my head, turning my attention back to the TV where Sidney and Geno were still playing. “Don’t leave us hanging… on a scale of ‘1 to 10’, Abby is a…?”
I shook my head, not needing the conversation to take this route. “Come on!” Max pressured again; earning a look of disproval from Sidney. “Is she bad then?” Max countered smugly. I knew he was only trying to set me off; but it worked.
“I don’t know… alright!”
“You don’t know? What do you mean you don’t- Oh…” It felt like the air had been sucked out of the room as I hung my head to avoid any eye contact. I wasn’t embarrassed. It wasn’t like I was dating Abby solely because she had a nice body, or because I wanted sex; but I also didn’t want the guys to think that there was something wrong with me. “So never?” Jordan asked slowly, trying to process the concept of a relationship without sex.
Max exhaled loudly, “Why?”
I snapped my head back up and appraised Max. “Are you serious? Why? Because! Because every time I’m about to you show up! Then, when you’re far enough away that I don’t have to worry about you… her parents are in the next room, or my parents are home… it’s just not meant to be…” I sighed and looked away.
“But-” Max started, but I stopped him abruptly.
“She’s not a locker-room story Max, just drop it.” I got up and made my way into the kitchen, pulling the fridge open and searching for a beer.
“I’m sorry…” Sidney said quietly from behind me. “This isn’t anything to be ashamed of you know? It just shows that you guys can have a great relationship even without the physical part… not that Max or Jordan or Geno would ever understand that.” I sighed and turned around, nodding my thanks.
“Yah, I just wish that it wasn’t without the physical thing…”
“Well, didn’t you say she got you a lock for the front door?” I nodded, grinning. “How about you put it up, and let me take care of these idiots.” He chuckled and headed back out into the living room. I could hear him rounding the guys up and kicking them out.
I heard the door shut tightly behind them and I smiled to myself as I walked over to the counter and picked the heavy box. Now to find some power tools…
“I noticed the new addition to the front door.” Abby laughed as she climbed into bed beside me.
“Mmhmm… you enjoy my handy work?” I grinned, pulling her against me, revelling in the feel of her soft skin against my bare chest. I started to place kisses along her jaw and onto her neck, sighing as she let out a gentle moan.
“Oh no! Cooper!” Abby gasped, pushing me off of her. “Damn, he just peed on the bed!” I looked down and stared to laugh as Abby scooped Cooper up in her arms, taking the quilt off the bed with him.
I watched as she headed out of the bedroom and out towards the laundry room, smiling to myself. Not tonight then…
“I was pelted with ice blocks since the stupid game started. If that's your idea of fun, Marc, you can have your fun without me!” She snapped at me, as I reached out for her arm; gently rubbing my thumb along one of the bruises.
“Mary...” I said angrily, bringing my eyes back up to hers. “Abby, I'm sorry. Marylene was out of hand. There's not supposed to be any ice used. She's young, and naive... And I don't care what she thinks of you. I love you.” Oh shit! I did not just say that…
“You love me?” She whispered softly, her eyes wide.
I didn‘t know what to say. I expected her to laugh at me but she didn‘t. “Do you love me?” I asked slowly, trying to not let my voice crack. She put her hands around my face, pulling me towards her. I kissed her passionately as she pulled back, just enough to respond.
“I love you Marc-Andre Fleury.”
“I love you too Aberleigh Michaels. More than you could ever know.” I grinned into her as I allowed her to pull me closer. I felt giddy, happy, ecstatic.
“Marc? Aberleigh? Someone has something she'd like to tell you both!” I heard my dad’s voice call up from somewhere in the house. I let out a deep sigh as I pulled away from Abby. I just can’t get a break here… Abby started to laugh as she climbed out of the tub.
I got up and grabbed her a towel. If we were going downstairs there was no way I could see her naked… if I do, Dad’s gonna be waiting for a long time…
Lucky for Dad, unlucky for me; Abby dressed quickly and followed me downstairs. I clutched her hand in mine as I saw Mary standing beside my father; looking ashamed.
“What Mary?” I spat, as I pulled Abby behind me - protectively.
Mary looked up, but didn’t say anything; dad gave her a slight nudge with his elbow. Sighing she finally started to talk. “I just wanted to say that I’m sorry for what I did outside…”
“Well you should be!” I normally didn’t yell at Mary - I normally didn’t yell at anyone but, I just couldn’t help it. I hadn’t seeing Abby hurt, I hated knowing the purpose behind it even more.
“Marc…” Abby said quietly grabbing my arm and stepping forward to stand beside me. “Don’t yell at her…”
“Abby look at what she did to you!” I turned my attention back to Mary, “I know that you’re upset but you can’t do something like this Mary!”
“I know, I’m sorry.” I let out a sigh and shook my head, she just didn’t understand. “It just… it’s so unfair!”
I felt Abby stiffen beside me as Mary started to cry into her hands; my father pulling her under his arm and signalling to me that this discussion was over. I turned to leave but Abby held me in place. “What’s she talking about Marc?”
“They were suppose to get married! I was gonna be a bride’s maid! She loves him… they’ve been together forever and they were suppose to stay that way!” She didn’t take a breath as the rage began to pour out of her. “Everything was perfect till you came! If it wasn’t for you then none of this wouldn’t have happened… putain!”
“Hey!” My dad yelled, pulling Mary out of the room behind him.
“What did she call me?” Abby said softly, renewed tears falling from her eyes.
I pulled her against my chest and kissed her forehead softly. “It doesn’t matter Abby, let’s just go to my room for a bit until she cools down ok?” She nodded against me as I led her down the hallway.
We laid on my bed for a while; Abby nuzzled into my side as I stroked her hair with my hand. “Did you know? That she felt like that, I mean?”
I nodded slowly, trying to find the right words. “It’s got nothing to do with you personally Abby… she just, always thought I’d end up with Vero.” I sighed softly, trying to find the right words. “She thinks that Vero was the only person who would ever make me happy; and she’s too irrational to realize that I’m happy with you… she just needs some time.”
“It still sucks though.” Abby sighed after a while, causing me to laugh loudly.
“Well I still love you… I guess you don’t care about that anymore though…” I let out a mock sigh of disappointment as she started to giggle; stopping abruptly as someone knocked at the door.
The door opened a crack, revealing Mary standing on the other side. “What now?” I asked, trying to remain civil.
“Can I come in?” I looked down at Abby, she nodded timidly. “I just… wanted to say sorry… for real this time.” She took a step in and stared at Abby and I for a minute before continuing. “I was out of line, and I’m sorry. Vero’s been in my life for as long as I can remember and I just always thought she’d be my sister someday. I know that what happened between them wasn’t your fault and, I’ll try to remember that and not be so awful.”
It was clear that she was still upset but, at least she looked like she now had things under control. I smiled down at Abby, hoping that this would make her a bit more happy.
She grinned slightly as she looked up at me. “So what do you say Abby… if we get married are you gonna let Mary be in the wedding party?”
Her laugh bordering on hysterics she nodded and looked back at Mary. “As long as you want to be…” Mary smiled in response and headed back out the door, closing it softly behind her.
I felt a nudge in my ribs and I looked down at Abby, who looked like she was going to go into shock.
“Are you ok? That was a good thing right… her apologising?” She watched me for a second before nodding.
“Yah, of course… sorry I zoned out.” Wedding comment… too much?
We were sitting in first class on the airplane, flying back to Pittsburgh when it hit me. We were going home. We were heading back to our house, with our puppy… What has this girl done to me? I wasn’t one to fear commitment, obviously, but I had been with Vero for almost ten years and even we never bought a puppy.
It had even seen like a big deal at the time; Sidney and I had been driving through town when I saw Cooper in the window and thought Abby would love him. Now that I thought about it though, I realized what a huge step it had been.
“So… do you not like this Pierre guy?” Abby asked suddenly, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I turned to look at her, realizing that she was picking at a loose thread on her sweater - nervously. “Umm… no I don’t. Why?”
“Is it because he’s dating Vero?” I sighed and chuckled quietly to myself, she had no idea how far she was from the truth.
“No… I’m obviously not excited that she would be foolish enough to date someone like him but… that’s not why I don’t like him.” She finally looked up, confusion still evident on her face. “He’s not a good person." I answered quietly. "I use to play hockey with him and, he was always an ass but, it wasn’t until high school that we really stopped getting along.
He use to date a girl and... suddenly she started coming to school with bruises and cuts and… then one day she ended up in the ER. When the guys on the team asked him about he acted like it was no big deal, said that she had it ’coming to her’… I got into a fight with him and we just… never talked again after that.”
Her mouth had formed a small ’o’ and the sight made me laugh again as I threw my arm over her shoulder and pulled her closer. “Baby you have nothing to worry about… I’m all yours…” She nodded, giving me a smile as she put her head on my shoulder.
“No Cooper, no Cooper, no!” I yelled as I took off down the hall. “Cooper come on… Daddy needs his blocker back!” I almost killed myself as I half-fell down the stairs. “Come on buddy! Look I got your monkey…” I waggled the torn stuffed monkey in front of myself as Cooper and I stood at a standoff in the living room. I heard the front door open behind me but I didn’t bother to turn around; I cringed as Coopers teeth tore through the soft padding on my blocker. “Give it to Daddy Cooper, come on…”
“He’s too cute to be yours… I think Abby cheated…“ I turned to see Max standing in the doorway, flanked by Geno, Sidney and Jordan.
“Hey guys… how’s it goin?” I turned back around, remembering about Cooper; and catching a glimpse of him disappearing down the hallway again. “Shit!”
“So… Abby likes him then?” Sidney chuckled as he flopped down on the couch.
I hopped over the couch and nodded from beside him. “A lot yah but, apparently he likes my gear more…” They all laughed at that as the rest of the guys sat down, turning on the TV and hauling out the Xbox.
Six games into NHL and I had to ask Sidney the question I was dying to ask him. “Hey Sid… you like Abby, right?”
“Sure… why?”
“I don’t know… just wondering…” I said, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible.
“No! No way man… come on!” At first I thought Jordan was mad at the game, but his glare turned around to me. “I know that tone of voice… it’s the same damn tone Eric got before he proposed to Tanya.”
Max nearly choked on his pop. “I’m sorry what!?” He sputtered, flipping his head back and forth between Jordan and I. “Proposed? As in married?” He spat the last word, like it was a disgusting disease. “You just got out of a ten year relationship and now you want to get married to a girl you’ve been dating for what? Two months? Three?”
“Are you serious?” I looked over at Sidney; the only person in the room that was smiling. “That’s awesome, Flower. I think it’s a great idea!”
“A what? Ok no… don’t listen to him… I shit-you-not, this is a bad decision.”
“I haven’t decided anything! I never said I was going to, I just… wanted to know what you guys thought.” I regretted saying anything immediately; at least Sidney seemed please.
“Look don’t get me wrong, I think Abby’s a great girl but… why ruin a good thing? Asking her this soon might just freak her out, and then where would you be?” Max grinned like he had just solved all the world’s problems with his wisdom. Note to self, never ask Max anything about Abby, ever, again… “I still can’t figure out where this came from though… is the sex that good? Oh… the sex is that good isn’t it?”
“I’ve never even heard you say anything about it! Dude… spill it…” Jordan lost all abandon and threw his controller over his shoulder, leaning his body towards me.
“Guys come on… not now… it’s none of your business-”
“She’s kinky isn’t she? Oh man, now I need to know!” Max shouted, cutting me off and high-fiving Jordan.
I sighed and shook my head, turning my attention back to the TV where Sidney and Geno were still playing. “Don’t leave us hanging… on a scale of ‘1 to 10’, Abby is a…?”
I shook my head, not needing the conversation to take this route. “Come on!” Max pressured again; earning a look of disproval from Sidney. “Is she bad then?” Max countered smugly. I knew he was only trying to set me off; but it worked.
“I don’t know… alright!”
“You don’t know? What do you mean you don’t- Oh…” It felt like the air had been sucked out of the room as I hung my head to avoid any eye contact. I wasn’t embarrassed. It wasn’t like I was dating Abby solely because she had a nice body, or because I wanted sex; but I also didn’t want the guys to think that there was something wrong with me. “So never?” Jordan asked slowly, trying to process the concept of a relationship without sex.
Max exhaled loudly, “Why?”
I snapped my head back up and appraised Max. “Are you serious? Why? Because! Because every time I’m about to you show up! Then, when you’re far enough away that I don’t have to worry about you… her parents are in the next room, or my parents are home… it’s just not meant to be…” I sighed and looked away.
“But-” Max started, but I stopped him abruptly.
“She’s not a locker-room story Max, just drop it.” I got up and made my way into the kitchen, pulling the fridge open and searching for a beer.
“I’m sorry…” Sidney said quietly from behind me. “This isn’t anything to be ashamed of you know? It just shows that you guys can have a great relationship even without the physical part… not that Max or Jordan or Geno would ever understand that.” I sighed and turned around, nodding my thanks.
“Yah, I just wish that it wasn’t without the physical thing…”
“Well, didn’t you say she got you a lock for the front door?” I nodded, grinning. “How about you put it up, and let me take care of these idiots.” He chuckled and headed back out into the living room. I could hear him rounding the guys up and kicking them out.
I heard the door shut tightly behind them and I smiled to myself as I walked over to the counter and picked the heavy box. Now to find some power tools…
“I noticed the new addition to the front door.” Abby laughed as she climbed into bed beside me.
“Mmhmm… you enjoy my handy work?” I grinned, pulling her against me, revelling in the feel of her soft skin against my bare chest. I started to place kisses along her jaw and onto her neck, sighing as she let out a gentle moan.
“Oh no! Cooper!” Abby gasped, pushing me off of her. “Damn, he just peed on the bed!” I looked down and stared to laugh as Abby scooped Cooper up in her arms, taking the quilt off the bed with him.
I watched as she headed out of the bedroom and out towards the laundry room, smiling to myself. Not tonight then…
Monday, September 28, 2009
War makes interesting bed fellows
Aberleigh-
I woke with a start at someone shaking me and calling my name. I blinked my eyes open to see Marc kneeling on the bed.
“What time is it?” I groggily croaked, sitting up slowly and rubbing my eyes with a yawn.
“Umm... I don't know... it's probably 6AM by now!” I couldn't help but laugh at the excitement in his voice and eyes.
“By now? How long have you been up for?” His grin grew, lighting his eyes even brighter.
“5... Let's go... presents!” He jumped off the bed and I could hear him running down the hall, bursting through another door. I chuckled softly to myself as I threw on my long, warm terry cloth robe and headed into the kitchen. I brewed a pot of coffee for myself, Andre and France, knowing full well that Marc definitely didn't need anymore stimulation this morning. Taking my freshly brewed cup into the living room, I slowly sat on the couch and reveled in the feel of this spirit. Christmas was never a big deal in our family. Most years my parents ran off to Colorado or the Alps leaving Braeden and me at our respective boarding schools. Lucy mailing us our presents weeks before. Since moving to Pittsburgh it was always just me and Danielle, her own family being across the country.
This was truly my first family Christmas experience. It was nice...
I laughed softly as I heard Marc's parents groan and then his footsteps loudly through the hall. He nearly vaulted over the couch to land next to me, chuckling.
“What can I say? I love Christmas...” I shook my head at him, his cheeks flushed from his running around like a bat out of hell. I leaned in and kissed him gently. I hope he'd still be like this with our kids... WHAT? Kids? Oh dear.... I pulled away, sitting back against the couch as Marylene entered the room. I was pretty sure she still didn't like me.
Presents seemed to disappear almost as quickly as they piled up as soon as his parents came downstairs and poured their own coffees.
Marylene's present pile was definitely impressive, although it made me smile victoriously at the fact that it was the new Ipod Nano Shoots I had bought for her that had her so enthralled. I smiled down at my beautiful emerald green sweater I had received from Andre and France; it wasn't much, but it was, at that point, the best present I had ever received. I turned slowly to Marc; he was the last person to get any presents from me, having purposely saved him for last.
“Ready for your gifts?” I asked as he tugged me even closer to him.
“Gifts? As in multiple?” I shook my head laughing at him as I pulled the card and two boxes from the table behind me.
“This one first...” I grinned handing him the larger of the two boxes. I bit my lip in anticipation as he shook it gently by his ear, hearing it clunk. He tore through the paper and began to laugh.
“A deadbolt? I don't think Max will be too happy about this!” My smile and confidence grew as a grin formed on his lips. He got it... He understood the reasoning behind it. I handed him the next box with a little more anticipation, it was an expensive gift, and we really hadn't discussed costs, or gifts in general, I just saw it, loved it, and instantly thought of him. My self-consciousness got the best of me and I began to chew on my thumb nail as he once again shook it, testing its weight. Finally he tore into the packaging, his eyes almost doubling in size at the watch nestled inside. My nervousness continued to grow as he gently brushed the face of the watch before gently taking out of the packaging and slipping it onto his wrist. Perfect fit. He turned his face up to meet mine, a grin plastered on his lips. My furrowed brow relaxed instantly as he pulled me into a mind blowing kiss. I had to physically push him away to end the kiss, knowing if I didn't... Well his parents were in the room. I giggled softly turning towards them, making sure that I wasn't public enemy number one.
France smiled genuinely at us as Andre flipped through his new book, unknowingly. Marylene at this point had disappeared to her room, with most of her bounty. I turned back to Marc who was smiling widely at me.
“Thank you, Abby... for both of them...” I laughed as he kissed my forehead gently.
“You didn't even open your big present yet!” My laugh grew as he whooped in excitement, handing him the card that sat on my lap. I watched his face as it moved from curious, to confusion, to pure excitement.
“But... this... wow! Abby!” I laughed as he threw his arms around me pulling me in to kiss him again. “France?! We're going to France? I've always wanted to go there!”
“I remembered you saying something about it once... I figured... it'd make for a nice vacation.” I shrugged as he nodded, before his eyes began to glint in excitement.
“Ready for your gifts now?” I nodded quickly; I had been waiting all morning for this. How was he going to ask? He said gifts... so it would definitely be the last one. “Alright... first off... here!” My smile grew as he placed a long, thin, robin's egg blue box in my hands. I gently traced Tiffany's on the top of the box... My favourite jewelers! How did he know? I slowly pulled of the lid and gasped at the beautiful pendent nestled in the gaze.
“Oh Marc...” I sighed, covering my dropping jaw; I couldn't take my eyes off of it.
“I wasn't sure if you'd like it...” I could barely hear him as my brain slowly tried to regain itself from the mush it had become. “Sidney helped me pick it out; it's a flower... get it?” I laughed genuinely, looking up at him as I shook my head at the sweetness of it all.
“Will you put it on?” My voice caught in my throat as he nodded, prompting me to pull all of my hair onto the top of my head. I shivered involuntarily as he kissed the back of my neck, just above where the clasp of the chain hit. I slowly took my hand from my hair, moving it to the pendent, playing with it.
“Ready for this one?” I moved my eyes to his, smiling, as I took the envelope he extended towards me. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder, and pulled me closer as I pulled out the card. I smiled at the silhouetted couple sitting on a bench surrounded by snow on the front. I slowly traced them with my finger as I opened the card, reading what he had written.
Abby,
Like most people, when I was younger I use to dream about the girl that I would have in my life; I always hoped that she would be beautiful and kind. Loving and loyal. But never in a million years could I have dreamed of someone like you: someone so perfect in everyway that it defies understanding. That I could be so blessed, to me, is incomprehensible. No one could be so perfect, and yet somehow, here you are. It is, this Christmas, both one of the happiest and saddest of my life; simply because I have you and yet cannot spend as much time with you as I want.
Know however, that you are always in my mind and in my heart.
Merry Christmas,
Marc
My eye filled with tears as I read and re-read his words. I didn’t even care what else was in that envelope. After reading it one last time, I lovingly set the card on my lap, intending to cherish it for the rest of forever. I pulled the final contents out of the envelope giving Marc a watery smile before turning my attention back to the gift. It took me two or three reads to fully understand the present. I squealed in excitement throwing my arms around his neck, allowing my deliriously happy tears to fall onto my cheeks.
“I’m sorry…” I sobbed against him. “I just…” I drew in a shaky breath as I pulled back from him and began to wipe my tears, blushing deeply. “I can’t wait to go with you… Turtle Island is supposed to be… amazing. And… I can’t wait.” I felt like my face was going to split in half from the size of my smile. He gently took my face into his strong hands and gently wiped the remainder of my tears with his thumbs.
“I have one more for you…” He whispered as he brushed my lips with his. “Stay here… close your eyes.” Oh god… This was it. Worry and excitement crossed my mind at the same time. What would his parents think? Was it too soon? I closed my eyes tightly as I felt him rise from the couch. I had to physically cover them to keep from peeking. “Abby… Here’s your last present.” I heard him in front of me. I chewed on the corner of my mouth in anticipation. “You can open your eyes.” I pulled my hands away from my face to find him kneeling in front of me with his hands behind his back. I wasn’t wrong… He was going to- “Meet Cooper!” He grinned, placing a wriggling chocolate lab puppy in my lap. A puppy? My smile dropped momentarily as “Cooper” scrambled up trying to reach my face to lick wildly, his sign of absolute affection genuinely replacing my grin.
“Oh! Oh my god… Oh my god, a puppy!” My emotions were on overdrive as I scratched the beautiful dog behind his ears. He got me a puppy. He got us a puppy… I smiled over at him as he sat next to me again, allowing my head to comfortable find his shoulder. “He’s beautiful…” I sighed watching as Cooper wriggled over our laps to nip at Marc’s fingers.
“You’re beautiful…” He whispered kissing the top of my head. I smiled as some one came in from the kitchen and cleared their throat. His dad stood there grinning at us.
“You lovebirds going to get ready soon?” He asked a smile evident in his voice. Marc nodded slowly before turning back to me. There’s more? I didn’t think I could handle anymore excitement. I turned to look over at Marc in confusion.
“Ready for what?” He sighed softly, obviously being very careful to choose his words.
“Umm… we sort of have this tradition where we go across the street to… visit.” He paused studying my reaction. What was so important across- Oh god! I couldn’t go over there! I would, in all certainty, be public enemy number one. “I’m sorry; Abby… it won’t be so bad. I’ll stay beside you the whole time.” He sighed taking my one hand in his. “They’re like second parents to me… we do it every year.” I furrowed my brow in worry and I glanced down to see Cooper chewing on the belt of my robe.
“Can I take Cooper?” I asked quietly, my smile finally returning as he nodded. It couldn’t be that bad… Could it?
We got ready in record time, and I found myself in front of the house in mere moments, Cooper pulling wildly on his leash, wanting to smell and jump into the snow. I laughed and scooped him into my arms as the door opened. An older woman appeared behind it. This must be her mum… I smiled warmly as she spoke rapid French to the Fleury’s. I blushed softly as I heard my name and was pulled into a tight hug. We laughed softly as we were ushered in out of the cold.
Marylene disappeared almost as soon as we got there, as the rest of us filed into the living room and gathered around a warm, roaring fire. Marc and I found spots on the floor where we could comfortably keep Cooper entertained as he tried to take rule of the house.
“So, Aberleigh…” Vero’s mum started, causing me to turn my attention to her. “How are you enjoying Sorel?”
“It’s beautiful,” I sighed as Marc gave my leg a gentle squeeze. “I mean… I grew up in upstate New York, and we always believed there could be nothing more beautiful then central park in the middle of December. We were wrong.” Everyone chuckled with me as the parents settled into polite conversation. I was lost in my own world with Marc and Cooper when the door suddenly opened and two fully covered figures came through the door. Cooper gave a warning bark, causing me to quickly pull him into my arms. “Shh…” I soothed as he growled at the taller of the two figures. My breath caught as they shed their heavy overcoats to reveal Vero and a tall, pensive looking man.
“Oh, Aberleigh! This is my daughter Veronique and her boyfriend Pierre.” Her mum excitedly announced pushing the two new comers further into the room. Vero quietly spoke to her mum in French.
“We’ve met…” I smiled carefully, nodding at Vero. “Vero…”
“Abby…” She returned just as cautiously. “Marc, how have you been?”
“Couldn’t be better,” he smiled over at me hugging me to him with one arm, a soft blush covering my cheeks. “Pierre… Life treating you well?” I felt him tense next to me as Pierre wrapped his arm around Vero’s shoulders. He’s jealous? I turned to look at his face, and found nothing but anger as the taller man gave a short answer in French before leading Vero down the hallway. I slowly released my breath as the tension in the room dissipated. Even Cooper dropped his growl and returned to chasing Marc’s socks.
The morning passed quickly as the family moved slowly into the kitchen, leaving Marc and I alone in the living room.
“I’ll be right back…” I smiled and pushed myself off of the floor, I laughed at the concerned look on his face. “I just have to run to the washroom, Marc. Calm down.” I kissed his forehead gently before disappearing down the hall. I pause half way down the hall trying to remember which room the bathroom was, when I heard voices right next to me.
“You think I don’t see what you’re doing you stupid slut?!” My curiosity got the better of me as I peeked into the cracked open door. There were Vero and Pierre squared off against each other.
“What am I doing, Pierre?” She sighed, rolling her eyes at him.
“You’re throwing yourself at him! He doesn’t want you anymore, Vero!” He spat as she shrunk back. “He doesn’t love you!”
“He’ll always love me…” She whispered so quietly I barely heard it. I knew it was true… Why wasn’t it bugging me? In the least… I gasped softly as I watched Pierre’s hand come down across her cheek hard. I quickly turned away from the door, opening the one across the hall to reveal the bathroom. Thank god!
I stayed in the small room for a few extra minutes as I heard the door across the hall slam shut and male feet stomped down the hallway. I sighed gently as I ran a soft face cloth under freezing cold water and crossed the hallway.
“Vero?” I started cautiously as I moved towards her, sitting on the bed.
“Go away, Abby…” She cried, turning the left side of her face away from me. I shook my head slowly as I offered her the cold compress.
“Sorry… No can do…” She sighed as she took the cloth and placed it against her cheek, wincing slightly. We sat in complete silence for a while; I wanted to give this woman time to speak to me.
“Thank you…” She sighed as I nodded slowly. “He didn’t mean to you know?” I slowly turned to study her as she stared at me expectantly.
“Of course not…” I smiled sadly patting her hand.
“You’re not going to tell me to leave him? Everyone else does…”
“Vero… I don’t know him. I barely know you. I’m sitting here because you look like you need someone in your corner.” She smiled weakly up at me. “I can’t judge what I don’t know. Everyone else might think they know… But Vero… They don’t. They’re not there when the door closes.” We lapsed again into silence before I gently took the cold compress from her. “Ready to head back into the lion’s den?” She laughed gently and nodded. I took her arm and led her back to the living room. We were mere feet away from the room when I heard Cooper yelp in pain, and a loud crash that followed quickly. I slowly turned to look at Vero before letting her go and running the rest of the way into the room. “What happened?” I cried as Cooper barreled into my legs.
“Coups de pied des chiots? Normalement Marc-Andre seulement abattages fourmis.” Pierre spat towards Marc, I scooped Cooper off the floor and watched Marc's face pale as he glanced around the room, landing on Vero's first.
“Ce n'est pas mon faute” Marc cried, turning to me with pain in his eyes. “Abby... I didn't... Cooper...” He took a small step towards us.
“It's okay, Marc...” I sighed stroking Cooper's head and closing the gap between Marc and myself. “I know you'd never do anything to intentionally hurt Cooper.” He nodded slightly, looking ashamed. Our attentions were pulled from the situation when the doorbell rang. Marylene crossed behind everyone to open the door, showing a group of people ranging from fourteen to twenty-five.
“Mary! Come on, snowball wars!” Mary turned back to all of us, with a gleam in her eyes.
“Nous devons jouer!” She grinned, pulling her toque onto her head tightly before sliding on her coat and gloves. Vero glanced over at Pierre who shrugged, holding open her coat for her. Maybe what I saw was a one off thing...
“Wanna play?” Marc whispered into my ear, scratching behind Cooper's, and the dog tried desperately to catch Marc's wrist with his tongue.
“What is it?” I looked up at him curiously.
“It's like catch the flag, meets paintball, in the middle of winter, and uses snowballs instead of paintballs.” I glanced down at Cooper now trying to chew on my sleeve in my arms.
“I guess I'll give it a try.” I shrugged softly placing the dog on the floor as Marc grabbed his leash from the door. We quickly dressed in our coats, toques and mitts before running out the door to find the mob of them in two different groups. Marylene instructing everyone where to stand.
“Marc vous êtes sur mon équipe.” She pulled him away from me as I passed him Cooper's leash. He knew what was going on... I didn't want Cooper to get hurt. I glanced over at Vero as she shrugged easily. I guess I was on that team... I smiled shyly making my way over.
As soon as the teams were assembled we all took off into the woods. I kept a close eye on my team, trying to figure out the rules and what it was exactly that I was supposed to be doing. I threw a quick snowball in the other teams direction, just missing one of the younger boys. A stinging pain hit my leg as I looked down to see a fist size piece of ice sitting next to my boot. I glanced up to see Marylene shrugging nonchalantly before she took off deeper into the forest. I sighed loudly as I tried to fall deeper into the woods.
“Psst! Abby!” Vero called, waving me over towards her. “Over this way.” I ran quickly over to her, ignoring the next stab of pain as another ice piece hit my back. “Head for the embankment. There's better coverage over there.” I nodded at her in thanks before heading that way.
Further into the game I started listening to the rest of everyone playing the game. What was I even doing here? Every time I moved I had ice thrown at me. I was sure they were laughing at me, stupid little American who had no idea what was going on. I glanced over at Vero as she laughed brightly, tossing snowballs over her own embankment. Figures... She had to be good that this too. I sighed deeply and bit my lip to keep from crying out as an ice block hit me square in the shoulder. That does it! I'm done! I don't want to play this stupid game anymore! I pulled myself up off the snow and started back through the woods, flinching as I got peppered with snow and ice as I made my way back to the house.
“Abby?” Marc's voice pushed through my thoughts as I finally crested the edge of the woods, but I didn't stop. I could hear him behind me the whole way back to the house as I dusted myself off, kicking off my boots, leaving them directly inside of the door. I shed my now soaked toque and mitts, before shaking out my dripping coat and hanging it in the closet.
I held my breath to keep my tears internal as I hurried upstairs to draw a warm bath, hopefully to warm my frozen core.
“Abby... Please, talk to me.” He pleaded. I shook my head, pulling my sweater over my head, wincing as I hit forming bruises. “Oh god... Abby, what happened?”
“Your stupid game happened!” I yelled, brushing past him back into the bathroom, closing the door in his face. I shed the rest of my clothes as I sunk into the almost scalding water. I shivered at the heat against my frozen skin, finally letting my tears flood out of me.
“Abby, please...” He sighed. “I didn't ever want you to get hurt... Just let me in...” I sighed as I immersed my head under water. I came up just as quickly, wiping my tears from my cheeks before telling him to come in. “What happened?”
“I was pelted with ice blocks since the stupid game started. If that's your idea of fun, Marc, you can have your fun without me!” I glared at him as he gently took my arm in his, rubbing a large bruise gently. I was shocked. It didn't even hurt.
“Mary...” He spat before moving his eyes back to mine. “Abby, I'm sorry. Marylene was out of hand. There's not supposed to be any ice used. She's young, and naive... And I don't care what she thinks of you. I love you.” Oh... my... god... Did I die?
“You love me?” I breathed, not wanting to be louder than a whisper in case this all disappeared.
“Do you love me?” He asked shyly. I took his face in my hands, drawing him into me for a deep kiss.
“I love you Marc-Andre Fleury.” I sighed against him between kisses.
“I love you too Aberleigh Michaels. More than you could ever know.” I smiled against his lips as I drew him closer to me.
“Marc? Aberleigh? Someone has something she'd like to tell you both!” Andre's voice carried up through the hallway. Marc sighed deeply causing my to laugh softly as I slowly climbed out of the tub taking the offered towel from Marc who quickly leaving the room. I quickly dressed and ran downstairs. What could she have to say now?
I woke with a start at someone shaking me and calling my name. I blinked my eyes open to see Marc kneeling on the bed.
“What time is it?” I groggily croaked, sitting up slowly and rubbing my eyes with a yawn.
“Umm... I don't know... it's probably 6AM by now!” I couldn't help but laugh at the excitement in his voice and eyes.
“By now? How long have you been up for?” His grin grew, lighting his eyes even brighter.
“5... Let's go... presents!” He jumped off the bed and I could hear him running down the hall, bursting through another door. I chuckled softly to myself as I threw on my long, warm terry cloth robe and headed into the kitchen. I brewed a pot of coffee for myself, Andre and France, knowing full well that Marc definitely didn't need anymore stimulation this morning. Taking my freshly brewed cup into the living room, I slowly sat on the couch and reveled in the feel of this spirit. Christmas was never a big deal in our family. Most years my parents ran off to Colorado or the Alps leaving Braeden and me at our respective boarding schools. Lucy mailing us our presents weeks before. Since moving to Pittsburgh it was always just me and Danielle, her own family being across the country.
This was truly my first family Christmas experience. It was nice...
I laughed softly as I heard Marc's parents groan and then his footsteps loudly through the hall. He nearly vaulted over the couch to land next to me, chuckling.
“What can I say? I love Christmas...” I shook my head at him, his cheeks flushed from his running around like a bat out of hell. I leaned in and kissed him gently. I hope he'd still be like this with our kids... WHAT? Kids? Oh dear.... I pulled away, sitting back against the couch as Marylene entered the room. I was pretty sure she still didn't like me.
Presents seemed to disappear almost as quickly as they piled up as soon as his parents came downstairs and poured their own coffees.
Marylene's present pile was definitely impressive, although it made me smile victoriously at the fact that it was the new Ipod Nano Shoots I had bought for her that had her so enthralled. I smiled down at my beautiful emerald green sweater I had received from Andre and France; it wasn't much, but it was, at that point, the best present I had ever received. I turned slowly to Marc; he was the last person to get any presents from me, having purposely saved him for last.
“Ready for your gifts?” I asked as he tugged me even closer to him.
“Gifts? As in multiple?” I shook my head laughing at him as I pulled the card and two boxes from the table behind me.
“This one first...” I grinned handing him the larger of the two boxes. I bit my lip in anticipation as he shook it gently by his ear, hearing it clunk. He tore through the paper and began to laugh.
“A deadbolt? I don't think Max will be too happy about this!” My smile and confidence grew as a grin formed on his lips. He got it... He understood the reasoning behind it. I handed him the next box with a little more anticipation, it was an expensive gift, and we really hadn't discussed costs, or gifts in general, I just saw it, loved it, and instantly thought of him. My self-consciousness got the best of me and I began to chew on my thumb nail as he once again shook it, testing its weight. Finally he tore into the packaging, his eyes almost doubling in size at the watch nestled inside. My nervousness continued to grow as he gently brushed the face of the watch before gently taking out of the packaging and slipping it onto his wrist. Perfect fit. He turned his face up to meet mine, a grin plastered on his lips. My furrowed brow relaxed instantly as he pulled me into a mind blowing kiss. I had to physically push him away to end the kiss, knowing if I didn't... Well his parents were in the room. I giggled softly turning towards them, making sure that I wasn't public enemy number one.
France smiled genuinely at us as Andre flipped through his new book, unknowingly. Marylene at this point had disappeared to her room, with most of her bounty. I turned back to Marc who was smiling widely at me.
“Thank you, Abby... for both of them...” I laughed as he kissed my forehead gently.
“You didn't even open your big present yet!” My laugh grew as he whooped in excitement, handing him the card that sat on my lap. I watched his face as it moved from curious, to confusion, to pure excitement.
“But... this... wow! Abby!” I laughed as he threw his arms around me pulling me in to kiss him again. “France?! We're going to France? I've always wanted to go there!”
“I remembered you saying something about it once... I figured... it'd make for a nice vacation.” I shrugged as he nodded, before his eyes began to glint in excitement.
“Ready for your gifts now?” I nodded quickly; I had been waiting all morning for this. How was he going to ask? He said gifts... so it would definitely be the last one. “Alright... first off... here!” My smile grew as he placed a long, thin, robin's egg blue box in my hands. I gently traced Tiffany's on the top of the box... My favourite jewelers! How did he know? I slowly pulled of the lid and gasped at the beautiful pendent nestled in the gaze.
“Oh Marc...” I sighed, covering my dropping jaw; I couldn't take my eyes off of it.
“I wasn't sure if you'd like it...” I could barely hear him as my brain slowly tried to regain itself from the mush it had become. “Sidney helped me pick it out; it's a flower... get it?” I laughed genuinely, looking up at him as I shook my head at the sweetness of it all.
“Will you put it on?” My voice caught in my throat as he nodded, prompting me to pull all of my hair onto the top of my head. I shivered involuntarily as he kissed the back of my neck, just above where the clasp of the chain hit. I slowly took my hand from my hair, moving it to the pendent, playing with it.
“Ready for this one?” I moved my eyes to his, smiling, as I took the envelope he extended towards me. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder, and pulled me closer as I pulled out the card. I smiled at the silhouetted couple sitting on a bench surrounded by snow on the front. I slowly traced them with my finger as I opened the card, reading what he had written.
Abby,
Like most people, when I was younger I use to dream about the girl that I would have in my life; I always hoped that she would be beautiful and kind. Loving and loyal. But never in a million years could I have dreamed of someone like you: someone so perfect in everyway that it defies understanding. That I could be so blessed, to me, is incomprehensible. No one could be so perfect, and yet somehow, here you are. It is, this Christmas, both one of the happiest and saddest of my life; simply because I have you and yet cannot spend as much time with you as I want.
Know however, that you are always in my mind and in my heart.
Merry Christmas,
Marc
My eye filled with tears as I read and re-read his words. I didn’t even care what else was in that envelope. After reading it one last time, I lovingly set the card on my lap, intending to cherish it for the rest of forever. I pulled the final contents out of the envelope giving Marc a watery smile before turning my attention back to the gift. It took me two or three reads to fully understand the present. I squealed in excitement throwing my arms around his neck, allowing my deliriously happy tears to fall onto my cheeks.
“I’m sorry…” I sobbed against him. “I just…” I drew in a shaky breath as I pulled back from him and began to wipe my tears, blushing deeply. “I can’t wait to go with you… Turtle Island is supposed to be… amazing. And… I can’t wait.” I felt like my face was going to split in half from the size of my smile. He gently took my face into his strong hands and gently wiped the remainder of my tears with his thumbs.
“I have one more for you…” He whispered as he brushed my lips with his. “Stay here… close your eyes.” Oh god… This was it. Worry and excitement crossed my mind at the same time. What would his parents think? Was it too soon? I closed my eyes tightly as I felt him rise from the couch. I had to physically cover them to keep from peeking. “Abby… Here’s your last present.” I heard him in front of me. I chewed on the corner of my mouth in anticipation. “You can open your eyes.” I pulled my hands away from my face to find him kneeling in front of me with his hands behind his back. I wasn’t wrong… He was going to- “Meet Cooper!” He grinned, placing a wriggling chocolate lab puppy in my lap. A puppy? My smile dropped momentarily as “Cooper” scrambled up trying to reach my face to lick wildly, his sign of absolute affection genuinely replacing my grin.
“Oh! Oh my god… Oh my god, a puppy!” My emotions were on overdrive as I scratched the beautiful dog behind his ears. He got me a puppy. He got us a puppy… I smiled over at him as he sat next to me again, allowing my head to comfortable find his shoulder. “He’s beautiful…” I sighed watching as Cooper wriggled over our laps to nip at Marc’s fingers.
“You’re beautiful…” He whispered kissing the top of my head. I smiled as some one came in from the kitchen and cleared their throat. His dad stood there grinning at us.
“You lovebirds going to get ready soon?” He asked a smile evident in his voice. Marc nodded slowly before turning back to me. There’s more? I didn’t think I could handle anymore excitement. I turned to look over at Marc in confusion.
“Ready for what?” He sighed softly, obviously being very careful to choose his words.
“Umm… we sort of have this tradition where we go across the street to… visit.” He paused studying my reaction. What was so important across- Oh god! I couldn’t go over there! I would, in all certainty, be public enemy number one. “I’m sorry; Abby… it won’t be so bad. I’ll stay beside you the whole time.” He sighed taking my one hand in his. “They’re like second parents to me… we do it every year.” I furrowed my brow in worry and I glanced down to see Cooper chewing on the belt of my robe.
“Can I take Cooper?” I asked quietly, my smile finally returning as he nodded. It couldn’t be that bad… Could it?
We got ready in record time, and I found myself in front of the house in mere moments, Cooper pulling wildly on his leash, wanting to smell and jump into the snow. I laughed and scooped him into my arms as the door opened. An older woman appeared behind it. This must be her mum… I smiled warmly as she spoke rapid French to the Fleury’s. I blushed softly as I heard my name and was pulled into a tight hug. We laughed softly as we were ushered in out of the cold.
Marylene disappeared almost as soon as we got there, as the rest of us filed into the living room and gathered around a warm, roaring fire. Marc and I found spots on the floor where we could comfortably keep Cooper entertained as he tried to take rule of the house.
“So, Aberleigh…” Vero’s mum started, causing me to turn my attention to her. “How are you enjoying Sorel?”
“It’s beautiful,” I sighed as Marc gave my leg a gentle squeeze. “I mean… I grew up in upstate New York, and we always believed there could be nothing more beautiful then central park in the middle of December. We were wrong.” Everyone chuckled with me as the parents settled into polite conversation. I was lost in my own world with Marc and Cooper when the door suddenly opened and two fully covered figures came through the door. Cooper gave a warning bark, causing me to quickly pull him into my arms. “Shh…” I soothed as he growled at the taller of the two figures. My breath caught as they shed their heavy overcoats to reveal Vero and a tall, pensive looking man.
“Oh, Aberleigh! This is my daughter Veronique and her boyfriend Pierre.” Her mum excitedly announced pushing the two new comers further into the room. Vero quietly spoke to her mum in French.
“We’ve met…” I smiled carefully, nodding at Vero. “Vero…”
“Abby…” She returned just as cautiously. “Marc, how have you been?”
“Couldn’t be better,” he smiled over at me hugging me to him with one arm, a soft blush covering my cheeks. “Pierre… Life treating you well?” I felt him tense next to me as Pierre wrapped his arm around Vero’s shoulders. He’s jealous? I turned to look at his face, and found nothing but anger as the taller man gave a short answer in French before leading Vero down the hallway. I slowly released my breath as the tension in the room dissipated. Even Cooper dropped his growl and returned to chasing Marc’s socks.
The morning passed quickly as the family moved slowly into the kitchen, leaving Marc and I alone in the living room.
“I’ll be right back…” I smiled and pushed myself off of the floor, I laughed at the concerned look on his face. “I just have to run to the washroom, Marc. Calm down.” I kissed his forehead gently before disappearing down the hall. I pause half way down the hall trying to remember which room the bathroom was, when I heard voices right next to me.
“You think I don’t see what you’re doing you stupid slut?!” My curiosity got the better of me as I peeked into the cracked open door. There were Vero and Pierre squared off against each other.
“What am I doing, Pierre?” She sighed, rolling her eyes at him.
“You’re throwing yourself at him! He doesn’t want you anymore, Vero!” He spat as she shrunk back. “He doesn’t love you!”
“He’ll always love me…” She whispered so quietly I barely heard it. I knew it was true… Why wasn’t it bugging me? In the least… I gasped softly as I watched Pierre’s hand come down across her cheek hard. I quickly turned away from the door, opening the one across the hall to reveal the bathroom. Thank god!
I stayed in the small room for a few extra minutes as I heard the door across the hall slam shut and male feet stomped down the hallway. I sighed gently as I ran a soft face cloth under freezing cold water and crossed the hallway.
“Vero?” I started cautiously as I moved towards her, sitting on the bed.
“Go away, Abby…” She cried, turning the left side of her face away from me. I shook my head slowly as I offered her the cold compress.
“Sorry… No can do…” She sighed as she took the cloth and placed it against her cheek, wincing slightly. We sat in complete silence for a while; I wanted to give this woman time to speak to me.
“Thank you…” She sighed as I nodded slowly. “He didn’t mean to you know?” I slowly turned to study her as she stared at me expectantly.
“Of course not…” I smiled sadly patting her hand.
“You’re not going to tell me to leave him? Everyone else does…”
“Vero… I don’t know him. I barely know you. I’m sitting here because you look like you need someone in your corner.” She smiled weakly up at me. “I can’t judge what I don’t know. Everyone else might think they know… But Vero… They don’t. They’re not there when the door closes.” We lapsed again into silence before I gently took the cold compress from her. “Ready to head back into the lion’s den?” She laughed gently and nodded. I took her arm and led her back to the living room. We were mere feet away from the room when I heard Cooper yelp in pain, and a loud crash that followed quickly. I slowly turned to look at Vero before letting her go and running the rest of the way into the room. “What happened?” I cried as Cooper barreled into my legs.
“Coups de pied des chiots? Normalement Marc-Andre seulement abattages fourmis.” Pierre spat towards Marc, I scooped Cooper off the floor and watched Marc's face pale as he glanced around the room, landing on Vero's first.
“Ce n'est pas mon faute” Marc cried, turning to me with pain in his eyes. “Abby... I didn't... Cooper...” He took a small step towards us.
“It's okay, Marc...” I sighed stroking Cooper's head and closing the gap between Marc and myself. “I know you'd never do anything to intentionally hurt Cooper.” He nodded slightly, looking ashamed. Our attentions were pulled from the situation when the doorbell rang. Marylene crossed behind everyone to open the door, showing a group of people ranging from fourteen to twenty-five.
“Mary! Come on, snowball wars!” Mary turned back to all of us, with a gleam in her eyes.
“Nous devons jouer!” She grinned, pulling her toque onto her head tightly before sliding on her coat and gloves. Vero glanced over at Pierre who shrugged, holding open her coat for her. Maybe what I saw was a one off thing...
“Wanna play?” Marc whispered into my ear, scratching behind Cooper's, and the dog tried desperately to catch Marc's wrist with his tongue.
“What is it?” I looked up at him curiously.
“It's like catch the flag, meets paintball, in the middle of winter, and uses snowballs instead of paintballs.” I glanced down at Cooper now trying to chew on my sleeve in my arms.
“I guess I'll give it a try.” I shrugged softly placing the dog on the floor as Marc grabbed his leash from the door. We quickly dressed in our coats, toques and mitts before running out the door to find the mob of them in two different groups. Marylene instructing everyone where to stand.
“Marc vous êtes sur mon équipe.” She pulled him away from me as I passed him Cooper's leash. He knew what was going on... I didn't want Cooper to get hurt. I glanced over at Vero as she shrugged easily. I guess I was on that team... I smiled shyly making my way over.
As soon as the teams were assembled we all took off into the woods. I kept a close eye on my team, trying to figure out the rules and what it was exactly that I was supposed to be doing. I threw a quick snowball in the other teams direction, just missing one of the younger boys. A stinging pain hit my leg as I looked down to see a fist size piece of ice sitting next to my boot. I glanced up to see Marylene shrugging nonchalantly before she took off deeper into the forest. I sighed loudly as I tried to fall deeper into the woods.
“Psst! Abby!” Vero called, waving me over towards her. “Over this way.” I ran quickly over to her, ignoring the next stab of pain as another ice piece hit my back. “Head for the embankment. There's better coverage over there.” I nodded at her in thanks before heading that way.
Further into the game I started listening to the rest of everyone playing the game. What was I even doing here? Every time I moved I had ice thrown at me. I was sure they were laughing at me, stupid little American who had no idea what was going on. I glanced over at Vero as she laughed brightly, tossing snowballs over her own embankment. Figures... She had to be good that this too. I sighed deeply and bit my lip to keep from crying out as an ice block hit me square in the shoulder. That does it! I'm done! I don't want to play this stupid game anymore! I pulled myself up off the snow and started back through the woods, flinching as I got peppered with snow and ice as I made my way back to the house.
“Abby?” Marc's voice pushed through my thoughts as I finally crested the edge of the woods, but I didn't stop. I could hear him behind me the whole way back to the house as I dusted myself off, kicking off my boots, leaving them directly inside of the door. I shed my now soaked toque and mitts, before shaking out my dripping coat and hanging it in the closet.
I held my breath to keep my tears internal as I hurried upstairs to draw a warm bath, hopefully to warm my frozen core.
“Abby... Please, talk to me.” He pleaded. I shook my head, pulling my sweater over my head, wincing as I hit forming bruises. “Oh god... Abby, what happened?”
“Your stupid game happened!” I yelled, brushing past him back into the bathroom, closing the door in his face. I shed the rest of my clothes as I sunk into the almost scalding water. I shivered at the heat against my frozen skin, finally letting my tears flood out of me.
“Abby, please...” He sighed. “I didn't ever want you to get hurt... Just let me in...” I sighed as I immersed my head under water. I came up just as quickly, wiping my tears from my cheeks before telling him to come in. “What happened?”
“I was pelted with ice blocks since the stupid game started. If that's your idea of fun, Marc, you can have your fun without me!” I glared at him as he gently took my arm in his, rubbing a large bruise gently. I was shocked. It didn't even hurt.
“Mary...” He spat before moving his eyes back to mine. “Abby, I'm sorry. Marylene was out of hand. There's not supposed to be any ice used. She's young, and naive... And I don't care what she thinks of you. I love you.” Oh... my... god... Did I die?
“You love me?” I breathed, not wanting to be louder than a whisper in case this all disappeared.
“Do you love me?” He asked shyly. I took his face in my hands, drawing him into me for a deep kiss.
“I love you Marc-Andre Fleury.” I sighed against him between kisses.
“I love you too Aberleigh Michaels. More than you could ever know.” I smiled against his lips as I drew him closer to me.
“Marc? Aberleigh? Someone has something she'd like to tell you both!” Andre's voice carried up through the hallway. Marc sighed deeply causing my to laugh softly as I slowly climbed out of the tub taking the offered towel from Marc who quickly leaving the room. I quickly dressed and ran downstairs. What could she have to say now?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Present Confusion
“Ok Dad… please, please, please don’t say anything about Vero! Please!” I stood in the middle of the airport, pulling my hat down lower over my face. Normally I didn’t mind being recognized, but I really just wanted to get Abby and get home; it’d been too long since I saw her.
“I heard you the first forty times Marc! I won’t say anything…” I sighed, hoping that he wouldn’t; but being tactful was never one of my father’s strong points. I glanced around the airport, again; finally seeing Abby through the throng of people.
“Abby!” I waved from the edge of the crowd, catching her eye before taking off towards her. I pulled her into a tight hug, bringing my lips down to hers.
“Marc… your parents are right there…” She turned her lips from me, offering her cheek instead.
“It's alright...” Dad said, as mom and him made their way over to us. “We are used to Marc's public displays of affection. Kissing Vero anywhere in the house. Not caring who was around.” I groaned, feeling the colour rising in my face, while Abby let out a nervous chuckle. Thanks dad, that’s just great. Not like I asked you to avoid doing that or anything… “You must be Abby.” He held out his hand for Abby to shake, before making the introductions.
“It's a pleasure to meet you both.” Abby said sincerely as my mother pulled her towards her, kissing both of her cheeks.
I shook my head and grabbed Abby‘s hand. “Can we go home now?” My father nodded and heading back towards the car; Abby and I in tow.
“Oh no! You should have seen him! I remember this one time, he was suppose to be helping Vero with-”
“Ok… that’s enough! Why don’t we talk about something else for a bit? Something that doesn’t involve embarrassing stories about me… your rich son… that buys you nice things…” I tried to make the last part a playful threat, but it just caused Abby and my parents to laugh even harder.
I let out a groan and got up from the couch. This was definitely going alot better than my visit with Abby’s family. She seemed comfortable, and I could tell that mom and dad were sold - Mary, well, she was going to be a bit more difficult.
At that thought I set my empty hot-chocolate mug on the kitchen counter and headed down the hall into Mary’s room. “Hey…” I said to her back as she typed away on her laptop.
“What do you want?”
“Mary… come on. I’m hardly ever home… don’t you think you could-”
“No!” She snapped, turning around to face me. “I couldn’t. I don’t want to. Just because you’re so ready to forget about everything that ever happened before she came into the picture; doesn’t mean that I am.” She turned back around, huffing.
I sighed and walked into her room, pulling the door closed behind me.
“Mary. I know that you’re upset, but it’s my life. Don’t you want me to be happy?”
“You were happy with Vero…”
“Key word being ‘were’… past-tense. I was happy with Vero, now I’m happy with Abby, very happy with Abby.” I stood still for a moment, waiting for her to say something. When she didn’t, I continued; “Marylene… please, for me? At least give her a chance… she’s wonderful. I promise that you’ll love her just like I do, but you have to give her a chance first.”
I watched her shoulders slump at my words. “Fine, but only for you. I’m not going out there to be friends with her…” I smiled as she got up, pulling her into a bear hug before leading her out towards the living room.
“Alright well, I already tossed your stuff in Marc’s room-” My dad started to say to Abby as my mom cut him off.
“Andre! I’m sure she’d rather have her own room…” My mom glared at my father, as if he was doing something completely ridiculous. I knew she wasn’t worried about me, she was most likely concerned about Abby’s well being; I chuckled at the thought - this from the woman who thinks Maxime Talbot is the most respectable man going…
“Oh come on France! It’s not like he wasn’t sneaking out to sleep in Vero’s room since he was 9! If you’re afraid this girl’s going to de-flower your little boy, I think you’re too late!”
“Dad…” I groaned, smacking my hand to my forehead, could this get anymore awkward? I grabbed Abby’s hand and lead her down the darkened hallway to my room, where the answer to my question awaited me; yes, yes it could.
Shit! I sighed to myself as I flicked on the light switch; I had forgotten all about the pictures in my room.
Vero was everywhere. There were pictures of her on the wall, the bedside table, the bulletin board above my desk, and several on my mirror; squeezed in under the wood. “Abby… I’m so sorry… I haven’t been here since-”
“It’s fine Marc! I know she was a big part of your life, don’t worry about it, ok?” I sighed as I turned around to look at her. I could tell she was upset; maybe not at me, but at the situation for sure. I nodded slightly as I lead her over to the bed.
As soon as she was seated I started pulling pictures down. “Marc-” She started but I cut her off as I tossed a few into the empty trashcan.
“No Abby… you say you’re fine, I respect that. But I’m not sleeping in a room covered in pictures of my ex-girlfriend. Even if you weren’t here, I would still be taking them down. Alright?” She sighed softly as she watched me, a slight smile threatening the corner of her soft lips.
She laid back as she watched me work; by the time I was done, my walls were empty. I flopped down beside her and nuzzled my face into her neck. “You know who’s not here right now…?” I asked softly. She turned her face to look down at me, giving me a questioning glance. “Max…” I smiled slightly, “and you know what that means?”
She let out a giggle as I started to roll over onto her.
“Marc! You’re parents and your sister-” She started to protest but it was too late; I was already fully on top of her, my lips pressing hard against hers.
I felt her give in easily, wrapping her arms around my neck as my tongue found it’s way into her mouth.
I started to push my luck, pushing myself down on her and manoeuvring my way in between her thighs. “Marc…” She sighed, pulling me back into the reality of the situation. I pulled back from her and gave her my best ’puppy-dog’ face; earning a laugh. “I know… I just… don’t want them to hate me. I think they might actually approve of me.” She said slyly, giving me a peak on the lips before sliding out from underneath me.
I sighed, sitting up to pull my shirt off. I knew she was right; whenever we finally had sex - I wanted it to be anything but quiet. As liberal as my parents were when it came to pre-marital sex, they probably wouldn’t appreciate it if it happened while they were home.
I took of my pants and crawled in under the covers; snuggling up against Abby, hoping she wouldn’t be too pissed about getting an erection in the back. Totally not my fault… I smiled smugly as she let out a small sigh.
“Goodnight baby…” I whispered into her hair, inhaling her scent as I did so.
I woke up at 5AM. Sure it’s early, but it’s Christmas! The thought sent a spasm of excitement through my body as I propelled myself out of bed and took off down the hallway.
Even though I was expecting to see presents, I was still giddy when I did. I dove over the couch and started digging through the brightly wrapped packages; “This is awesome!” I yelled at no one in particular as I started to sort out a pile with my name on them.
“Hey Abby! … Abby!” I shook her gently, until she opened her eyes. She stared at me for a second before sitting up and looking around the room.
“What time is it?” She asked slowly, letting out a yawn.
I grinned at how cute she was, exhausted and vulnerable. “Umm… I don’t know… it’s probably 6AM by now!” I couldn’t keep the excitement out of my voice and she laughed.
“By now? How long have you been up for?”
“5... Let’s go… presents!” I jumped off the bed and headed into Mary’s room; pouncing on her and shocking her awake.
“Ugh! Marc… get off!” Her muffled voice cried out from under the comforter.
“Christmas!” I reminded her, and that was all it took; minutes later we were both running down the hall and into my parents room.
Abby was laughing at me when I came into the living room. I plopped down beside her on the couch and chuckled. “What can I say? I love Christmas…” She shook her head and kissed me gently, pulling away as soon as Mary came in.
We shifted through the gifts quickly; Mary - like always - getting the bulk of the presents.
I felt bad for Abby, it never even occurred to me that she wouldn’t have as much as the rest of us. So far she had only received a sweater from mom and dad… but I was going to change that soon.
“Ready for your gifts?” Abby asked me, as I pulled her closer to me on the couch.
“Gifts? As in multiple?” She laughed at how excited I sounded, before pulling a card and two small packages out from beside her.
“This one first.” She said, grinning as she handed me a heavy green package. I held it up to my ear and shook it. I unwrapped it quickly and began to laugh loudly as I read the box.
“A deadbolt? I don’t think Max will be to happy about this!” The idea behind the gift - that Abby wanted me physically - caused a huge grin to spread across my face. Suddenly I wanted Christmas to be over. Now.
Nothing sounded better than being at home, in bed, protected behind the safety of a deadbolt.
She handed me the next package and again I shook it. It wasn’t as heavy as the deadbolt; but it was in the same size box. Unable to control the urge I started to tear at the paper; feeling my eyes widen as I pulled a watch out of the box.
I was not the type of guy that ever wore expensive things. The only accessory that I ever wore was my old beat up watch from Wal-Mart; that I bought 3 or 4 years ago.
I looked at the sleek, silver watch that I now held in my hands. It was perfect. I could feel the quality as I traced my thumb around the square perimeter; I would never buy something this elaborate for myself, but as it was, I couldn’t wait to put it on.
I undid the packaging and slipped it on over my hand, letting it come to rest on my wrist. I closed the claps and flipped my wrist around, smiling as I felt how good it fit. I grinned up at Aberleigh who was watching me, worried. I pulled her against me and brought my lips down to hers, kissing her without abandon. She pulled away and giggled slightly, looking over at my parents, blushing.
My mother was grinning at us and my father was flipping through one of his new biographies.
I smiled back at Aberleigh, encouragingly. “Thank you Abby… for both of them…” I kissed her forehead as she began to laugh.
“You didn’t even open your big present yet!” I let out a yell of excitement as she handed me the card on her lap.
I ripped the card open, wondering what ’big present’ could be in a card. Holy shit! “But… this… wow! Abby!” I threw my arms around her, kissing her again. “France?! We’re going to France? I’ve always wanted to go there!”
“I remember you saying something about it once… I figured… it’d make for a nice vacation.” I nodded in agreement, before pulling away.
“Ready for your gifts now?” Abby smiled and nodded; excitement truly crossing her face for the first time that morning.
“Alright… first off… here!” I passed her long thing blue, Tiffany’s box. I watched her index finger lightly trace the writing on top as a smile spread across her face. She pulled off the top of the box and let out a gasp.
“Oh Marc…” She sighed softly, placing a hand in front of her mouth as she stared down at the pendent.
“I wasn’t sure if you’d like it… Sidney helped me pick it out; it’s a flower… get it?” She started to laugh and slowly shook her head, her brown hair cascading down around her shoulders.
“Will you put it on?” I nodded and pulled the thin chain out of the box. Abby piled her hair up on top of her head, allowing me to clasp the chain behind her neck. I planted a gently kiss just above the chain before she let her hair fall back down. She fingered the flower pendent gently as she stared at it; I was ecstatic that she seemed to enjoy it.
“Ready for this one?” She smiled up at me, extending her hand for the envelope I held out. I wrapped my arm around her shoulder as she pulled out the card, and I glanced at my writing over her shoulder:
Abby,
Like most people, when I was younger I use to dream about the girl that I would have in my life; I always hoped that she would be beautiful and kind. Loving and loyal. But never in a million years could I have dreamed of someone like you: someone so perfect in everyway that it defies understanding. That I could be so blessed, to me, is incomprehensible. No one could be so perfect, and yet somehow, here you are.
It is, this Christmas, both one of the happiest and saddest of my life; simply because I have you and yet cannot spend as much time with you as I want.
Know however, that you are always in my mind and in my heart.
Merry Christmas,
Marc
I watched her gentle eyes fill up with tears as she read over the card in her hands. I hoped that it wasn’t the wrong thing to say… everything with Abby seemed so clear, so easy; but when it came to words, it was always so hard. I knew what I needed to say, but I was always scared to say it.
She finally put the card down, giving me a weak smile as she pulled the other contents of the envelope out. Squealing she threw her arms around my neck, sobbing. “I’m sorry… I just…” She took a deep breath, whipping away her tears with embarrassment. “I can’t wait to go with you… Turtle Island is suppose to be… amazing and… I can’t wait.”
I took her face in my hands, whipping away her fresh tears with my thumbs.
“I have one more for you…” I said quietly, brushing her lips with my own. “Wait here… close your eyes.” A strange look crossed her face, followed quickly by a warm smile. I got up quickly and headed down the hallway to Mary’s room, where her gift was hidden. I wondered how she would handle it. Is it too soon for such a big commitment? Am I rushing this? What’s she going to say?
Scoping her last present into my hand, I walked back out to the living room.
Abby was still sitting in the couch, her hands covering her eyes. I looked around the room and noticed that at some point everyone else had left.
I walked over in front of her, then I kneeled down. “Abby…” I said slowly, praying for the best. “Here’s your last present… you can open your eyes.”
She pulled her hands away from her face and looked down at me, grinning broadly. “Meet Cooper!” I said happily, setting the squirming Chocolate Lab puppy in her lap.
“Oh! Oh my god… oh my god it’s a puppy!” Her initial reaction was disappointment, but now as she held Cooper up she looked genuinely happy. I was confused. What did she think was- oh shit. I realized that I was on my knees in front of her. Did she think I was going to ask her to marry me? I mean, I would but… it’s so… soon and… wait. Did I just say ‘I would’?
I stared up at her as she giggled and accepted Cooper’s kisses on her face; excitement rippled through my chest - She was disappointed… she would have said yes…
I got off my knees and pulled myself up beside her. “He’s beautiful!” She sighed, resting her head on my shoulder.
“You’re beautiful…” I said back, kissing her hair.
Someone coughed from the kitchen, causing us both to turn around. “You lovebirds going to get ready soon?”
I nodded slowly. How was I going to explain this to Abby… “Ready for what?” She asked slowly, looking back and forth between my dad and me.
“Umm… we sort of have this tradition where we go across the street to… visit.” I said slowly, the tone in my voice making it obvious who’s family we were going to see. Abby looked like a deer caught in the headlights. “I’m sorry Abby… it won’t be so bad, I’ll stay beside you the whole time.” I sighed trying to make her understand that I wasn’t doing this to hurt her. “They’re like second parents to me… we do it every year.”
She nodded slowly. “Can I take Cooper?” She said after a minute. I nodded as she gave me a weak smile.
Vero probably won’t be there… I tried to reason with myself. She’ll probably be over at Pierre’s…
I glanced over at Abby as we made our way down that hall. At least… I hope she’s not there.
“I heard you the first forty times Marc! I won’t say anything…” I sighed, hoping that he wouldn’t; but being tactful was never one of my father’s strong points. I glanced around the airport, again; finally seeing Abby through the throng of people.
“Abby!” I waved from the edge of the crowd, catching her eye before taking off towards her. I pulled her into a tight hug, bringing my lips down to hers.
“Marc… your parents are right there…” She turned her lips from me, offering her cheek instead.
“It's alright...” Dad said, as mom and him made their way over to us. “We are used to Marc's public displays of affection. Kissing Vero anywhere in the house. Not caring who was around.” I groaned, feeling the colour rising in my face, while Abby let out a nervous chuckle. Thanks dad, that’s just great. Not like I asked you to avoid doing that or anything… “You must be Abby.” He held out his hand for Abby to shake, before making the introductions.
“It's a pleasure to meet you both.” Abby said sincerely as my mother pulled her towards her, kissing both of her cheeks.
I shook my head and grabbed Abby‘s hand. “Can we go home now?” My father nodded and heading back towards the car; Abby and I in tow.
“Oh no! You should have seen him! I remember this one time, he was suppose to be helping Vero with-”
“Ok… that’s enough! Why don’t we talk about something else for a bit? Something that doesn’t involve embarrassing stories about me… your rich son… that buys you nice things…” I tried to make the last part a playful threat, but it just caused Abby and my parents to laugh even harder.
I let out a groan and got up from the couch. This was definitely going alot better than my visit with Abby’s family. She seemed comfortable, and I could tell that mom and dad were sold - Mary, well, she was going to be a bit more difficult.
At that thought I set my empty hot-chocolate mug on the kitchen counter and headed down the hall into Mary’s room. “Hey…” I said to her back as she typed away on her laptop.
“What do you want?”
“Mary… come on. I’m hardly ever home… don’t you think you could-”
“No!” She snapped, turning around to face me. “I couldn’t. I don’t want to. Just because you’re so ready to forget about everything that ever happened before she came into the picture; doesn’t mean that I am.” She turned back around, huffing.
I sighed and walked into her room, pulling the door closed behind me.
“Mary. I know that you’re upset, but it’s my life. Don’t you want me to be happy?”
“You were happy with Vero…”
“Key word being ‘were’… past-tense. I was happy with Vero, now I’m happy with Abby, very happy with Abby.” I stood still for a moment, waiting for her to say something. When she didn’t, I continued; “Marylene… please, for me? At least give her a chance… she’s wonderful. I promise that you’ll love her just like I do, but you have to give her a chance first.”
I watched her shoulders slump at my words. “Fine, but only for you. I’m not going out there to be friends with her…” I smiled as she got up, pulling her into a bear hug before leading her out towards the living room.
“Alright well, I already tossed your stuff in Marc’s room-” My dad started to say to Abby as my mom cut him off.
“Andre! I’m sure she’d rather have her own room…” My mom glared at my father, as if he was doing something completely ridiculous. I knew she wasn’t worried about me, she was most likely concerned about Abby’s well being; I chuckled at the thought - this from the woman who thinks Maxime Talbot is the most respectable man going…
“Oh come on France! It’s not like he wasn’t sneaking out to sleep in Vero’s room since he was 9! If you’re afraid this girl’s going to de-flower your little boy, I think you’re too late!”
“Dad…” I groaned, smacking my hand to my forehead, could this get anymore awkward? I grabbed Abby’s hand and lead her down the darkened hallway to my room, where the answer to my question awaited me; yes, yes it could.
Shit! I sighed to myself as I flicked on the light switch; I had forgotten all about the pictures in my room.
Vero was everywhere. There were pictures of her on the wall, the bedside table, the bulletin board above my desk, and several on my mirror; squeezed in under the wood. “Abby… I’m so sorry… I haven’t been here since-”
“It’s fine Marc! I know she was a big part of your life, don’t worry about it, ok?” I sighed as I turned around to look at her. I could tell she was upset; maybe not at me, but at the situation for sure. I nodded slightly as I lead her over to the bed.
As soon as she was seated I started pulling pictures down. “Marc-” She started but I cut her off as I tossed a few into the empty trashcan.
“No Abby… you say you’re fine, I respect that. But I’m not sleeping in a room covered in pictures of my ex-girlfriend. Even if you weren’t here, I would still be taking them down. Alright?” She sighed softly as she watched me, a slight smile threatening the corner of her soft lips.
She laid back as she watched me work; by the time I was done, my walls were empty. I flopped down beside her and nuzzled my face into her neck. “You know who’s not here right now…?” I asked softly. She turned her face to look down at me, giving me a questioning glance. “Max…” I smiled slightly, “and you know what that means?”
She let out a giggle as I started to roll over onto her.
“Marc! You’re parents and your sister-” She started to protest but it was too late; I was already fully on top of her, my lips pressing hard against hers.
I felt her give in easily, wrapping her arms around my neck as my tongue found it’s way into her mouth.
I started to push my luck, pushing myself down on her and manoeuvring my way in between her thighs. “Marc…” She sighed, pulling me back into the reality of the situation. I pulled back from her and gave her my best ’puppy-dog’ face; earning a laugh. “I know… I just… don’t want them to hate me. I think they might actually approve of me.” She said slyly, giving me a peak on the lips before sliding out from underneath me.
I sighed, sitting up to pull my shirt off. I knew she was right; whenever we finally had sex - I wanted it to be anything but quiet. As liberal as my parents were when it came to pre-marital sex, they probably wouldn’t appreciate it if it happened while they were home.
I took of my pants and crawled in under the covers; snuggling up against Abby, hoping she wouldn’t be too pissed about getting an erection in the back. Totally not my fault… I smiled smugly as she let out a small sigh.
“Goodnight baby…” I whispered into her hair, inhaling her scent as I did so.
I woke up at 5AM. Sure it’s early, but it’s Christmas! The thought sent a spasm of excitement through my body as I propelled myself out of bed and took off down the hallway.
Even though I was expecting to see presents, I was still giddy when I did. I dove over the couch and started digging through the brightly wrapped packages; “This is awesome!” I yelled at no one in particular as I started to sort out a pile with my name on them.
“Hey Abby! … Abby!” I shook her gently, until she opened her eyes. She stared at me for a second before sitting up and looking around the room.
“What time is it?” She asked slowly, letting out a yawn.
I grinned at how cute she was, exhausted and vulnerable. “Umm… I don’t know… it’s probably 6AM by now!” I couldn’t keep the excitement out of my voice and she laughed.
“By now? How long have you been up for?”
“5... Let’s go… presents!” I jumped off the bed and headed into Mary’s room; pouncing on her and shocking her awake.
“Ugh! Marc… get off!” Her muffled voice cried out from under the comforter.
“Christmas!” I reminded her, and that was all it took; minutes later we were both running down the hall and into my parents room.
Abby was laughing at me when I came into the living room. I plopped down beside her on the couch and chuckled. “What can I say? I love Christmas…” She shook her head and kissed me gently, pulling away as soon as Mary came in.
We shifted through the gifts quickly; Mary - like always - getting the bulk of the presents.
I felt bad for Abby, it never even occurred to me that she wouldn’t have as much as the rest of us. So far she had only received a sweater from mom and dad… but I was going to change that soon.
“Ready for your gifts?” Abby asked me, as I pulled her closer to me on the couch.
“Gifts? As in multiple?” She laughed at how excited I sounded, before pulling a card and two small packages out from beside her.
“This one first.” She said, grinning as she handed me a heavy green package. I held it up to my ear and shook it. I unwrapped it quickly and began to laugh loudly as I read the box.
“A deadbolt? I don’t think Max will be to happy about this!” The idea behind the gift - that Abby wanted me physically - caused a huge grin to spread across my face. Suddenly I wanted Christmas to be over. Now.
Nothing sounded better than being at home, in bed, protected behind the safety of a deadbolt.
She handed me the next package and again I shook it. It wasn’t as heavy as the deadbolt; but it was in the same size box. Unable to control the urge I started to tear at the paper; feeling my eyes widen as I pulled a watch out of the box.
I was not the type of guy that ever wore expensive things. The only accessory that I ever wore was my old beat up watch from Wal-Mart; that I bought 3 or 4 years ago.
I looked at the sleek, silver watch that I now held in my hands. It was perfect. I could feel the quality as I traced my thumb around the square perimeter; I would never buy something this elaborate for myself, but as it was, I couldn’t wait to put it on.
I undid the packaging and slipped it on over my hand, letting it come to rest on my wrist. I closed the claps and flipped my wrist around, smiling as I felt how good it fit. I grinned up at Aberleigh who was watching me, worried. I pulled her against me and brought my lips down to hers, kissing her without abandon. She pulled away and giggled slightly, looking over at my parents, blushing.
My mother was grinning at us and my father was flipping through one of his new biographies.
I smiled back at Aberleigh, encouragingly. “Thank you Abby… for both of them…” I kissed her forehead as she began to laugh.
“You didn’t even open your big present yet!” I let out a yell of excitement as she handed me the card on her lap.
I ripped the card open, wondering what ’big present’ could be in a card. Holy shit! “But… this… wow! Abby!” I threw my arms around her, kissing her again. “France?! We’re going to France? I’ve always wanted to go there!”
“I remember you saying something about it once… I figured… it’d make for a nice vacation.” I nodded in agreement, before pulling away.
“Ready for your gifts now?” Abby smiled and nodded; excitement truly crossing her face for the first time that morning.
“Alright… first off… here!” I passed her long thing blue, Tiffany’s box. I watched her index finger lightly trace the writing on top as a smile spread across her face. She pulled off the top of the box and let out a gasp.
“Oh Marc…” She sighed softly, placing a hand in front of her mouth as she stared down at the pendent.
“I wasn’t sure if you’d like it… Sidney helped me pick it out; it’s a flower… get it?” She started to laugh and slowly shook her head, her brown hair cascading down around her shoulders.
“Will you put it on?” I nodded and pulled the thin chain out of the box. Abby piled her hair up on top of her head, allowing me to clasp the chain behind her neck. I planted a gently kiss just above the chain before she let her hair fall back down. She fingered the flower pendent gently as she stared at it; I was ecstatic that she seemed to enjoy it.
“Ready for this one?” She smiled up at me, extending her hand for the envelope I held out. I wrapped my arm around her shoulder as she pulled out the card, and I glanced at my writing over her shoulder:
Abby,
Like most people, when I was younger I use to dream about the girl that I would have in my life; I always hoped that she would be beautiful and kind. Loving and loyal. But never in a million years could I have dreamed of someone like you: someone so perfect in everyway that it defies understanding. That I could be so blessed, to me, is incomprehensible. No one could be so perfect, and yet somehow, here you are.
It is, this Christmas, both one of the happiest and saddest of my life; simply because I have you and yet cannot spend as much time with you as I want.
Know however, that you are always in my mind and in my heart.
Merry Christmas,
Marc
I watched her gentle eyes fill up with tears as she read over the card in her hands. I hoped that it wasn’t the wrong thing to say… everything with Abby seemed so clear, so easy; but when it came to words, it was always so hard. I knew what I needed to say, but I was always scared to say it.
She finally put the card down, giving me a weak smile as she pulled the other contents of the envelope out. Squealing she threw her arms around my neck, sobbing. “I’m sorry… I just…” She took a deep breath, whipping away her tears with embarrassment. “I can’t wait to go with you… Turtle Island is suppose to be… amazing and… I can’t wait.”
I took her face in my hands, whipping away her fresh tears with my thumbs.
“I have one more for you…” I said quietly, brushing her lips with my own. “Wait here… close your eyes.” A strange look crossed her face, followed quickly by a warm smile. I got up quickly and headed down the hallway to Mary’s room, where her gift was hidden. I wondered how she would handle it. Is it too soon for such a big commitment? Am I rushing this? What’s she going to say?
Scoping her last present into my hand, I walked back out to the living room.
Abby was still sitting in the couch, her hands covering her eyes. I looked around the room and noticed that at some point everyone else had left.
I walked over in front of her, then I kneeled down. “Abby…” I said slowly, praying for the best. “Here’s your last present… you can open your eyes.”
She pulled her hands away from her face and looked down at me, grinning broadly. “Meet Cooper!” I said happily, setting the squirming Chocolate Lab puppy in her lap.
“Oh! Oh my god… oh my god it’s a puppy!” Her initial reaction was disappointment, but now as she held Cooper up she looked genuinely happy. I was confused. What did she think was- oh shit. I realized that I was on my knees in front of her. Did she think I was going to ask her to marry me? I mean, I would but… it’s so… soon and… wait. Did I just say ‘I would’?
I stared up at her as she giggled and accepted Cooper’s kisses on her face; excitement rippled through my chest - She was disappointed… she would have said yes…
I got off my knees and pulled myself up beside her. “He’s beautiful!” She sighed, resting her head on my shoulder.
“You’re beautiful…” I said back, kissing her hair.
Someone coughed from the kitchen, causing us both to turn around. “You lovebirds going to get ready soon?”
I nodded slowly. How was I going to explain this to Abby… “Ready for what?” She asked slowly, looking back and forth between my dad and me.
“Umm… we sort of have this tradition where we go across the street to… visit.” I said slowly, the tone in my voice making it obvious who’s family we were going to see. Abby looked like a deer caught in the headlights. “I’m sorry Abby… it won’t be so bad, I’ll stay beside you the whole time.” I sighed trying to make her understand that I wasn’t doing this to hurt her. “They’re like second parents to me… we do it every year.”
She nodded slowly. “Can I take Cooper?” She said after a minute. I nodded as she gave me a weak smile.
Vero probably won’t be there… I tried to reason with myself. She’ll probably be over at Pierre’s…
I glanced over at Abby as we made our way down that hall. At least… I hope she’s not there.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Most Definitely YES
Aberleigh-
Sunday, with the bags packed in Marc's Range Rover and Marc and Braeden in the kitchen eating with Lucy and Emma, I took the advantage to talk to my father, about Marc. I found him sitting in a large wing backed chair in his study, reading the Sunday Times. I tread across the room softly, sitting in the chair next to him.
“So... Daddy...” I started, unsure of how to continue... What if I didn't like his answers....? “What did you think of Marc?” I smiled at him tentatively as he folded his paper into his lap. My smile faltered slightly as his hands folded, and his forefingers sat thoughtfully in front of his lips.
“I think Marc's a great guy, Princess.” He stared of in space as my smile strengthened slightly. “But I don't think he's the right guy for you.” He finally turned to look at me at the same time I turned to study my fingernails. “What about the McCallum's boy, Aberleigh? He's a lawyer now you know.” I scoffed softly at the thought of William McCallum. “Marc... He can't support you like William can. William would give you the life you've always wanted.”
“William has been a raging alcoholic since we were sixteen years old, Daddy.” I spat meeting his gaze with fire in my eyes. “Marc has and still is giving me the life I want. I'm free to work... I never have to worry about where he is or who he's with. His friends like me. Danielle likes him! Hell, Daddy, he's even won Braeden over!” I stood abruptly from my chair and began to pace the length of the room.
“Aberleigh Michaels. Don't you ever raise your voice to me. Now I want you to go back to Pittsburgh and pack the house up and come home, do you understand me?” He stood from his chair and took a step towards me making me shrink back slightly. I took a deep breath before straightening up and staring him in the eyes.
“Daddy, I'm not asking your permission to date Marc.” I turned towards the door to leave as he opened his mouth to speak, I turned back with my hand on the door knob. “If you want me out of the house... That's fine. I'll find something else. I'll be out before Christmas.” I shook my head at him sadly walking out of the study before he could respond. Marc and Braeden met me at the front door, causing me to crash into Marc's arms.
“Everything ok, babe?” He asked concerned, brushing my hair away from my face.
“It is now...” I smiled up at him, pulling up onto my tip toes for a kiss. Braeden groaned next to us, leaving the house to meet us at the SUV. “So... I was thinking...” I started as we headed down the front steps. “I want to start my own company.” I looked over at him shyly, as shock absorbed into his face.
“Your own company?” He questioned opening the door for me. “Like a private PR firm?” I nodded as he rounded the Rover and climbed in. “Why? Abby... You don't have to work, if you don't want to...” I turned from him to the house and back to him again.
“Marc, I want to work. I love my job. I love what I do, and I'm good at it.” I can't believe he's taking my dad's standpoint on this! He held up his hands in submission as he turned on the vehicle and pulled out of the driveway.
“If you're happy, Abby... I'm happy.” He smiled as I took his hand for the long journey home.
I looked up sadly at my house as we stopped in the driveway. Braeden hoped out of the backseat grabbing his bag. I sighed gently before turning to Marc sitting in the driver's seat.
“Could you do me a favour, Marc?” He furrowed his brow in concern as he pulled away from the house and towards his own.
“Anything... Abby, what's going on?” He looked over at me concerned, I smiled softly taking his hand and squeezing it gently.
“Apparently, my father's decided that I am no long welcome in any house that he owns, so I have to be out by Christmas...” Ok.. So he didn't say that.. But I don't want to be in any house that he owns anymore. He looked over at me shocked.
“He kicked you out?” I nodded gently as we turned down his street. “Why?” I sighed deeply, staring out of the window. I really didn't want to tell him about what my father had said.
“Because, I'm not the daughter he apparently thought I was...”
“Oh...” We lapsed into our first uncomfortable silence ever, but what was I supposed to say to that? Marc... My father hates you, and hates the fact that I love you, so he kicked me out. Yah right! I sighed deeply as we pulled into Marc's driveway. “You could move in here...” I stopped suddenly, even my brain quit working. Did he just ask me to move in? “I mean... you're here anyways... Then you don't have to worry about looking for something else...” I slowly turned to look at him. His face was wrought with worry and doubt. I wanted to make those feelings disappear.
“Are you sure?” His gaze lifted to mine quickly, trying to read my own facial expressions.
“Of course I am...” He smiled brightly as I nodded slowly.
“Then I'd love to.” I laughed softly as he ran around the SUV to envelope me in his arms, and subsequently carry me, and all of our bags over the threshold. “MARC! You're going to hurt yourself!” I laughed as he finally set me down just inside the door.
“I got excited...” He grinned stealing my mouth in searing kiss. I tangled my fingers into his hair as he quickly pushed me against the now closed door. I squealed and giggled as he lifted me off of the ground, causing me to wrap my legs around his waist, pulling him closer to me. I entwined my fingers through his hair, moaning into his kiss as he ran his fingers up my sides to the lace edges of my bra. My hands moved by themselves as they found the edge of his shirt. I broke our kiss momentarily as I ripped his shirt over his head. I sighed as his hands made their way to my ass as he headed towards the stairs. I ran my hands down his now bare arms and chest as he walked us slowly up the stairs. He threw his right arm out to the stair banister as he stumbled on the last stair. We broke our kiss as we both laughed at the situation. “Sorry...” He whispered.
“For what?” I returned softly, running my finger down his cheek. “You know...” I grinned as he stared at me confused. “That bed of yours is a lot more comfortable than the staircase...” Marc chuckled as he nuzzled against my collarbone.
“Our bed...” He whispered, kissing my collarbone.
“Our bed...” I smiled as he moved up the last stair as there was a knock at the door. “Ignore it...” I whispered biting the top of his ear gently as we fell onto the bed.
“What if it's Max?” He groaned as I continued my assault down his ear.
“He wouldn't have knocked...” I reasoned as he moaned gently egging me on. I pulled away from him quickly as he pulled my shirt over my head, cupping my bra in his hands. “Oh, Marc...” I sighed as his hands moved to play with the waistband of my jeans.
“I don't know why they just don't leave the door unlocked!” Max's voice flooded up the stairs to us as Marc howled in aggravation. I sighed softly, nuzzling against his shoulder as I chuckled at our horrible luck. “Abbs! Marc! Come on down! Or I'm comin' up!” Max called from the bottom of the stairs. I leaned up and kissed Marc quickly, before throwing my shirt back on and running downstairs to find Max, Kris and Danielle sitting on the couches in the living room. “We're here to shop.” Max announced leaning back on the couch.
“Well... Max is...” Kris laughed, ducking the pillow that came flying at this head. “We're here to keep you company.” Danielle nodded as she smiled over at Kris softly. What was this...? I grinned as Marc finally appeared behind me, hugging me tightly.
“Well, come on Flower! This was your SOS...” Max reasoned standing from the couch. I looked over my shoulder at Marc curiously as he shrugged noncommittally. “Sid sent me the bat signal. They're on their way there. Let's go! Abbs is in safe hands here.” Max grinned shooing Marc away from me. I turned to Max and glared at him before turning to Marc slowly.
“Why are you shopping?” I took his shirt in my hands and kissed him lightly.
“Oh... Just this really hot girl I'm seeing... You see I need to get her something great for Christmas... And I'm hopeless so...” He laughed returning my small kisses.
“Mmm... Do I get to meet her soon?”
“Maybe...” He kissed me once more before heading out the door with Max. I sighed softly before folding myself into the plush chair across from the couch, just then realizing that Kris and Dani's hands were entangled.
“What's goin' on guys...?” I grinned widely.
“Well, we're supposed to keep you distracted while your boyfriend shops for you.” Dani shrugged as Kris nudged her shoulder with his own. “What? She's bound to find out anyways!”
“It's for Christmas...” Kris reasoned as Dani rolled her eyes at him. I nodded thoughtfully, thankful I had already purchased his gift, just before leaving for New York. “How was Thanksgiving?”
“Awful...” I groaned. “Speaking of Thanksgiving, and having time to burn... You guys want to help me pack?” They looked between each other and then to me confused. “My father doesn't like the thought that I'm dating Marc, so... he disowned me and I told him I'd be out of the house before Christmas. Marc asked me to move in, I said yes; what a better time then now?”
“Then we'd love to help Abbs.” Kris grinned pulling Dani up off the couch.
Two hours later I found myself in our bedroom surrounded by boxes. I hated moving. I sighed as I emptied another box of clothes into the spacious closet. I had changed into a pair of Princeton sweat pants and an old grubby white t-shirt, my hair was pulled back in a simple pony tail, keeping it out of my eyes. I opened a drawer in his closet organizer, trying to find space for more clothes. I ended up closing it a little harder than I should have and a small black box fell from the top of the closet to my feet.
I should have put the box back... but you know that old adage... Curiosity killed the cat. I slowly picked it up and carried it over to the bed. I held my breath as I opened the lid to reveal the most beautiful ring I have ever seen. My breath caught in my breath as I stared at it. Was this for me? What I ready for this? So soon? My mind wandered to how awkward our relationship started and how good it had become. I was ready... I knew my answered would be yes, as soon as he asked the question. I snapped the box closed as I heard the front door open and the boys, all of them, can traipsing in. I slid the box back at the top of closet before heading quickly downstairs. My grin grew as I saw that Sid, Max and Jordan had started NHL10; trying desperately to convince Marc to play as well. I shook my head slowly moving into the kitchen, thinking of something to cook these four goons for dinner.
I wrapped my arms around Marc's waist as we stood in front of the front door.
“You can't go...” I sighed, burying my face into his chest as he chuckled gently.
“I have to go... but I'll see you soon. I have to go to Toronto...” He sighed lifting my face gently to kiss me. “I'll see you in four days.”
“Fly safe... Call me when you land?” I pouted, causing him to laugh again.
“Of course, babe. For you, anything.” He kissed me once more before heading towards the door.
“Good luck on your meetings, Abby.”
“Good luck with your games, Marc.” I blew him a kiss as Max honked the horn outside.
I pulled my toque tighter over my ears as I dragged my bag towards the arrivals exit. Canada... My first time ever in this country and I was here to meet my boyfriend's parents.
“Abby!” I heard his voice before I saw him, waving at me from the edge of the crowd, his hat pulled down low over his eyes. Two other people standing around him. Those must be his parents. “Abby...” He breathed me in, as soon as I was a reachable distance away.
“Marc... Your parents are right there...” I whispered moving my face so he would kiss my cheek.
“It's alright...” His dad took a step forward. “We are used to Marc's public displays of affection. Kissing Vero anywhere in the house. Not caring who was around.” I watched Marc as he groaned and blushed deeply at the comment. Making me chuckle slightly in response. “You must be Abby.” He held out his hand which I shook gratefully. “I'm Andre and this is my wife, France.”
“It's a pleasure to meet you both.” I smiled as I moved to shake France's hand as well. She quickly brushed my hand aside and pulled me into a tight hug, kissing both cheeks. Wow... Canadians are definitely different. Marc shook his head as he took my hand again.
“Can we go home now?” He laughed, taking my bag and allowing his parents to lead us out to the car.
Sunday, with the bags packed in Marc's Range Rover and Marc and Braeden in the kitchen eating with Lucy and Emma, I took the advantage to talk to my father, about Marc. I found him sitting in a large wing backed chair in his study, reading the Sunday Times. I tread across the room softly, sitting in the chair next to him.
“So... Daddy...” I started, unsure of how to continue... What if I didn't like his answers....? “What did you think of Marc?” I smiled at him tentatively as he folded his paper into his lap. My smile faltered slightly as his hands folded, and his forefingers sat thoughtfully in front of his lips.
“I think Marc's a great guy, Princess.” He stared of in space as my smile strengthened slightly. “But I don't think he's the right guy for you.” He finally turned to look at me at the same time I turned to study my fingernails. “What about the McCallum's boy, Aberleigh? He's a lawyer now you know.” I scoffed softly at the thought of William McCallum. “Marc... He can't support you like William can. William would give you the life you've always wanted.”
“William has been a raging alcoholic since we were sixteen years old, Daddy.” I spat meeting his gaze with fire in my eyes. “Marc has and still is giving me the life I want. I'm free to work... I never have to worry about where he is or who he's with. His friends like me. Danielle likes him! Hell, Daddy, he's even won Braeden over!” I stood abruptly from my chair and began to pace the length of the room.
“Aberleigh Michaels. Don't you ever raise your voice to me. Now I want you to go back to Pittsburgh and pack the house up and come home, do you understand me?” He stood from his chair and took a step towards me making me shrink back slightly. I took a deep breath before straightening up and staring him in the eyes.
“Daddy, I'm not asking your permission to date Marc.” I turned towards the door to leave as he opened his mouth to speak, I turned back with my hand on the door knob. “If you want me out of the house... That's fine. I'll find something else. I'll be out before Christmas.” I shook my head at him sadly walking out of the study before he could respond. Marc and Braeden met me at the front door, causing me to crash into Marc's arms.
“Everything ok, babe?” He asked concerned, brushing my hair away from my face.
“It is now...” I smiled up at him, pulling up onto my tip toes for a kiss. Braeden groaned next to us, leaving the house to meet us at the SUV. “So... I was thinking...” I started as we headed down the front steps. “I want to start my own company.” I looked over at him shyly, as shock absorbed into his face.
“Your own company?” He questioned opening the door for me. “Like a private PR firm?” I nodded as he rounded the Rover and climbed in. “Why? Abby... You don't have to work, if you don't want to...” I turned from him to the house and back to him again.
“Marc, I want to work. I love my job. I love what I do, and I'm good at it.” I can't believe he's taking my dad's standpoint on this! He held up his hands in submission as he turned on the vehicle and pulled out of the driveway.
“If you're happy, Abby... I'm happy.” He smiled as I took his hand for the long journey home.
I looked up sadly at my house as we stopped in the driveway. Braeden hoped out of the backseat grabbing his bag. I sighed gently before turning to Marc sitting in the driver's seat.
“Could you do me a favour, Marc?” He furrowed his brow in concern as he pulled away from the house and towards his own.
“Anything... Abby, what's going on?” He looked over at me concerned, I smiled softly taking his hand and squeezing it gently.
“Apparently, my father's decided that I am no long welcome in any house that he owns, so I have to be out by Christmas...” Ok.. So he didn't say that.. But I don't want to be in any house that he owns anymore. He looked over at me shocked.
“He kicked you out?” I nodded gently as we turned down his street. “Why?” I sighed deeply, staring out of the window. I really didn't want to tell him about what my father had said.
“Because, I'm not the daughter he apparently thought I was...”
“Oh...” We lapsed into our first uncomfortable silence ever, but what was I supposed to say to that? Marc... My father hates you, and hates the fact that I love you, so he kicked me out. Yah right! I sighed deeply as we pulled into Marc's driveway. “You could move in here...” I stopped suddenly, even my brain quit working. Did he just ask me to move in? “I mean... you're here anyways... Then you don't have to worry about looking for something else...” I slowly turned to look at him. His face was wrought with worry and doubt. I wanted to make those feelings disappear.
“Are you sure?” His gaze lifted to mine quickly, trying to read my own facial expressions.
“Of course I am...” He smiled brightly as I nodded slowly.
“Then I'd love to.” I laughed softly as he ran around the SUV to envelope me in his arms, and subsequently carry me, and all of our bags over the threshold. “MARC! You're going to hurt yourself!” I laughed as he finally set me down just inside the door.
“I got excited...” He grinned stealing my mouth in searing kiss. I tangled my fingers into his hair as he quickly pushed me against the now closed door. I squealed and giggled as he lifted me off of the ground, causing me to wrap my legs around his waist, pulling him closer to me. I entwined my fingers through his hair, moaning into his kiss as he ran his fingers up my sides to the lace edges of my bra. My hands moved by themselves as they found the edge of his shirt. I broke our kiss momentarily as I ripped his shirt over his head. I sighed as his hands made their way to my ass as he headed towards the stairs. I ran my hands down his now bare arms and chest as he walked us slowly up the stairs. He threw his right arm out to the stair banister as he stumbled on the last stair. We broke our kiss as we both laughed at the situation. “Sorry...” He whispered.
“For what?” I returned softly, running my finger down his cheek. “You know...” I grinned as he stared at me confused. “That bed of yours is a lot more comfortable than the staircase...” Marc chuckled as he nuzzled against my collarbone.
“Our bed...” He whispered, kissing my collarbone.
“Our bed...” I smiled as he moved up the last stair as there was a knock at the door. “Ignore it...” I whispered biting the top of his ear gently as we fell onto the bed.
“What if it's Max?” He groaned as I continued my assault down his ear.
“He wouldn't have knocked...” I reasoned as he moaned gently egging me on. I pulled away from him quickly as he pulled my shirt over my head, cupping my bra in his hands. “Oh, Marc...” I sighed as his hands moved to play with the waistband of my jeans.
“I don't know why they just don't leave the door unlocked!” Max's voice flooded up the stairs to us as Marc howled in aggravation. I sighed softly, nuzzling against his shoulder as I chuckled at our horrible luck. “Abbs! Marc! Come on down! Or I'm comin' up!” Max called from the bottom of the stairs. I leaned up and kissed Marc quickly, before throwing my shirt back on and running downstairs to find Max, Kris and Danielle sitting on the couches in the living room. “We're here to shop.” Max announced leaning back on the couch.
“Well... Max is...” Kris laughed, ducking the pillow that came flying at this head. “We're here to keep you company.” Danielle nodded as she smiled over at Kris softly. What was this...? I grinned as Marc finally appeared behind me, hugging me tightly.
“Well, come on Flower! This was your SOS...” Max reasoned standing from the couch. I looked over my shoulder at Marc curiously as he shrugged noncommittally. “Sid sent me the bat signal. They're on their way there. Let's go! Abbs is in safe hands here.” Max grinned shooing Marc away from me. I turned to Max and glared at him before turning to Marc slowly.
“Why are you shopping?” I took his shirt in my hands and kissed him lightly.
“Oh... Just this really hot girl I'm seeing... You see I need to get her something great for Christmas... And I'm hopeless so...” He laughed returning my small kisses.
“Mmm... Do I get to meet her soon?”
“Maybe...” He kissed me once more before heading out the door with Max. I sighed softly before folding myself into the plush chair across from the couch, just then realizing that Kris and Dani's hands were entangled.
“What's goin' on guys...?” I grinned widely.
“Well, we're supposed to keep you distracted while your boyfriend shops for you.” Dani shrugged as Kris nudged her shoulder with his own. “What? She's bound to find out anyways!”
“It's for Christmas...” Kris reasoned as Dani rolled her eyes at him. I nodded thoughtfully, thankful I had already purchased his gift, just before leaving for New York. “How was Thanksgiving?”
“Awful...” I groaned. “Speaking of Thanksgiving, and having time to burn... You guys want to help me pack?” They looked between each other and then to me confused. “My father doesn't like the thought that I'm dating Marc, so... he disowned me and I told him I'd be out of the house before Christmas. Marc asked me to move in, I said yes; what a better time then now?”
“Then we'd love to help Abbs.” Kris grinned pulling Dani up off the couch.
Two hours later I found myself in our bedroom surrounded by boxes. I hated moving. I sighed as I emptied another box of clothes into the spacious closet. I had changed into a pair of Princeton sweat pants and an old grubby white t-shirt, my hair was pulled back in a simple pony tail, keeping it out of my eyes. I opened a drawer in his closet organizer, trying to find space for more clothes. I ended up closing it a little harder than I should have and a small black box fell from the top of the closet to my feet.
I should have put the box back... but you know that old adage... Curiosity killed the cat. I slowly picked it up and carried it over to the bed. I held my breath as I opened the lid to reveal the most beautiful ring I have ever seen. My breath caught in my breath as I stared at it. Was this for me? What I ready for this? So soon? My mind wandered to how awkward our relationship started and how good it had become. I was ready... I knew my answered would be yes, as soon as he asked the question. I snapped the box closed as I heard the front door open and the boys, all of them, can traipsing in. I slid the box back at the top of closet before heading quickly downstairs. My grin grew as I saw that Sid, Max and Jordan had started NHL10; trying desperately to convince Marc to play as well. I shook my head slowly moving into the kitchen, thinking of something to cook these four goons for dinner.
I wrapped my arms around Marc's waist as we stood in front of the front door.
“You can't go...” I sighed, burying my face into his chest as he chuckled gently.
“I have to go... but I'll see you soon. I have to go to Toronto...” He sighed lifting my face gently to kiss me. “I'll see you in four days.”
“Fly safe... Call me when you land?” I pouted, causing him to laugh again.
“Of course, babe. For you, anything.” He kissed me once more before heading towards the door.
“Good luck on your meetings, Abby.”
“Good luck with your games, Marc.” I blew him a kiss as Max honked the horn outside.
I pulled my toque tighter over my ears as I dragged my bag towards the arrivals exit. Canada... My first time ever in this country and I was here to meet my boyfriend's parents.
“Abby!” I heard his voice before I saw him, waving at me from the edge of the crowd, his hat pulled down low over his eyes. Two other people standing around him. Those must be his parents. “Abby...” He breathed me in, as soon as I was a reachable distance away.
“Marc... Your parents are right there...” I whispered moving my face so he would kiss my cheek.
“It's alright...” His dad took a step forward. “We are used to Marc's public displays of affection. Kissing Vero anywhere in the house. Not caring who was around.” I watched Marc as he groaned and blushed deeply at the comment. Making me chuckle slightly in response. “You must be Abby.” He held out his hand which I shook gratefully. “I'm Andre and this is my wife, France.”
“It's a pleasure to meet you both.” I smiled as I moved to shake France's hand as well. She quickly brushed my hand aside and pulled me into a tight hug, kissing both cheeks. Wow... Canadians are definitely different. Marc shook his head as he took my hand again.
“Can we go home now?” He laughed, taking my bag and allowing his parents to lead us out to the car.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Man Enough
“Oh, Lucy, please be sure to bring the plate I set aside for Aberleigh. Thank you.” I opened my mouth to ask what that meant; did Abby have allergies she didn‘t tell me about? I shut my mouth when I felt Abby gently pinch my arm, warning me not to talk. I turned to her, about to ask what was going on, but she shook her head and looked back down at the table. Not before I could see the tears in her eyes. What’s going on?
Lucy, the maid, brought out all the plates. The ones that were set in front of Braeden, James and myself, were piled high with delicious smelling food. Veronica, Abby’s mother, picked away at a single slice of beef and salad; Abby had a few pieces of lettuce. I looked around the table as I dug in; Abby was the only one without beef - does she not eat meat? How did I miss that?
“So Marc… how are the Polar Bears doing this year?” I took my gaze away Abby; looking right at her father.
“Umm… Penguins… and we’re doing ok.” I said slowly, turning my eyes back to Abby.
“Only ok? What position do you play?”
“Goalie.” Abby continued to push the lettuce around her plate. I reached out and put my hand on her knee, giving it a gentle squeeze.
James cleared his throat, “Goalie? So you’re not one of the big tough guys then? Don’t do a whole lot during the game…”
I knew he was insulting me, but I was too focused on Abby to truly care. “Daddy…” Abby said quietly, ending the conversation.
I ate quickly, trying to get Abby alone as soon as possible. I was getting the impression that she hadn’t been exaggeration when she explained to me how complicated this weekend was going to be.
Finally finished, I leaned back in my chair; glancing across the table at Braeden. “Well,” He said finally, pushing his chair away from the table. “I’m exhausted, think I should call it a night…” I nodded my head in agreement, following Brae’s lead and rising from the table.
I scooped up my plate from the table, causing Veronica to laugh. “Please Marc!” She cried, grabbing my wrist. “We have people for that…” She added softly, grinning at me through Botox’d features. I gave her a small smile in return before setting the plate back down.
“Of course.” I said glancing at Abby, who was also rising from her seat.
“I had them put Marc’s stuff down in the east guestroom… you can show him where that is Abby.” Her dad said slowly, not bothering to look up from where his plate.
“Sure… night daddy. Night mom.” Abby turned and walked animatedly from the room; with me hot on her heels.
We headed up the banquet-style staircase in silence, Abby walking a step ahead of me until we reached a deep red bedroom on the far side of the house. “So this is it…” She sighed, sitting down on the edge of the bed.
“Let me guess… it’s a 5 mile trek to your room?”
She started to laugh quietly, the action shaking her body gently. “Something like that… Look Marc, I’m so sorry about that…” She motioned towards the other end of the house.
“Don’t, don’t worry about it… it’s gonna take a whole lot more than that to get rid of me.” I laughed too, sitting down beside her. “… is that what you’re worried about? Why you were crying at dinner?”
She looked surprised and then embarrassed before nodding slowly. “Yah… I was scared you were going to leave…”
I shook my head, grinning; as I pushed her down on the bed and climbed on top of her. She let out a squeal, before clamping her hand to her mouth. “Shh… you’re gonna get us caught.” She giggled silently as her hands wrapped around my neck, pulling me into a deep, passionate kiss. I sighed into it and began to search for the bottom of her shirt, shoving my hands up along her the smooth, firm skin stretched across her stomach.
She shifted slightly, pushing herself downward until my hands were resting on the lace of her bra. I grinned and flipped her shirt up; causing goosebumps to rise on her skin. I put my left hand underneath the lace scooping her breast out and gently rubbing my thumb around her in tiny circles.
She sighed happily and I headed south, placing gentle kisses along her stomach. I pulled my face back, smiling down at her body, “God you’re beautiful…”
She began to recoil from me, pulling her shirt back down over herself and shooing my hand away. “What’s wrong baby?” I asked, pulling her towards me until she was in my lap.
“Nothing…” She sighed. “I just don’t want to get caught… that’s the last thing we need.” I nodded in agreement. I’m pretty sure her dad hates me already…
I smiled to myself as I thought about how great it was going to be over the Christmas break; all that time off and being able to sleep with her in my arms for all of it.
“Alright well… you should head then…” She nodded and I allowed her to get up, staring at her body as she shuffled towards the door. I smiled as I followed after her, kissing her once again before I watched her disappear down the hall.
I wanted to walk her to her room, spend as much time with her as I could; but I didn’t want to risk a run in with her parents, it felt like I was on rocky grounds already.
Plus not knowing where her room was made it a lot easier for me to ignore any thoughts I had about sneaking out to see her. “Marc… got a minute.” Lost in my thoughts I didn’t notice James approach me.
“Umm… of course.” I gave him a fake smile, hoping he didn’t know the difference.
“How much money do you make a year?” The bluntness of his question caught me off guard.
“I’m sorry… what?”
“Do you invest it? Do you have any kind of portfolio set up for yourself?”
“I invest a bit… stocks aren’t really my thing though. I mean, I save all of the money that I make…”
He exhaled loudly and appraised me for a minute before speaking again; where the hell is this conversation heading? “Listen, I’m sure that you’re a really good kid but… do you really think you’re man enough for my princess? I understand that you don’t come from money so making a couple hundred thousand a year is probably a big deal; but what if you get injured? Can you do anything else if you have to stop playing games?”
I opened my mouth about to say something, but closed it abruptly as her father continued.
“Now here’s what I’m thinking. You get yourself out, now, before my daughter gets anymore attached to you… and I won’t have a problem, ’reimbursing’ you for your trouble.”
I stared at him in astonishment, trying to wrap my brain around what was going on. “Are you trying to bribe me?”
“I wouldn’t call it that… besides, I’m sure there’s a nice girl out there for you; that you’ll be able to take care of-”
“I can take care of Abby.” I spat back harshly, trying to remember to control my temper. Normally it wasn’t an issue but this… this was beyond crude. “First off, I make over 3 million a year, thank you, and secondly, I love your daughter and nothing in this world is going to make me leave, so… you’re wasting your time.”
He glared at me, taking a step back as a look of pure disdain formed in his eyes. “You have some nerve-”
“No.” I snapped, cutting him off mid-sentence. “You have some nerve believing that your daughter can be replaced by money.” I sighed a shook my head, looking down the hallway to where Abby had disappeared a little while before. “I make her happy… isn’t that enough for you?”
I didn’t wait for an answer. I said goodnight and headed into my room, closing the door behind me. What the hell?! This has to be some kind of a joke… I thought miserably as I paced around my room. I sighed and walked back to the door, checking to see if anyone was there.
When I was sure the way was clear I headed down the hallway. I wasn’t really sure how I was going to find Abby’s room but I knew I needed to try. Her dad already hated me so, there was no real point in trying to stay on his good side.
Luckily for me; Abby’s room appeared to be the same as when she was a child - a small plaque that read ’Aberleigh’ was tacked to a door.
I pushed it open slowly to find that the room was dark; Abby’s shape was visible on the bed, tucked under the blankets. I walked over slowly and crawled in beside her. “Marc?” She whispered into the darkness.
“Yah it’s me babe. Don’t worry, I’ll be gone before anyone wakes up… I just wanted to hold you. Is that ok?” She let out a soft sigh and rolled over, wrapping her arms around me. “Goodnight Abby.” I said, kissing the top of her head before falling asleep.
Saturday we left the house, going to visit some of Abby’s friends and the places she use to hang out at; barely seeing her parents at all.
It became pretty evident based on the places she took me; that Abby wasn’t a huge fan of the ’old money’ life style - something that made me a lot more happy than it should have.
Obviously I couldn’t dislike her parents. They clearly loved her and were willing to do anything to make sure that she was safe and protected; I just hated the fact that they didn’t think I was the person to do it - at least to her father I wasn’t.
We left on Sunday, earlier than planned; but I was just as glad as Abby was to be gone. I felt horrible even thinking it, but I couldn’t wait to get away from New York.
The drive home felt longer than the drive up. I knew it was just because I wanted to be alone with Abby; go back to being happy and, for the most part, carefree. I could tell she felt it too, the need to get back to Pittsburgh, get back to our life together.
I never told her about the conversation that I had had with her father. I wasn’t exactly sure why, but it just seemed like one of those things she shouldn’t know about. No matter what her family said, it wasn’t going to effect the way I cared about her so, why overwhelm her down with the details?
“Ugh! What am I going to do!?” I yelled, flopping down on a bench in the middle of the mall.
“I don’t know.” Came the unanimous response from the people around me.
“You know… I brought you guys here to help me look for something, and you’re not doing a very good job.” I sighed as Sidney sat down beside me.
“I told you, Flower! Girls love jewellery.” He repeated for the fifth time that afternoon.
“That’s boring! Where’s your creativity?” Max said, sitting on the other side of me. “Now, there’s a little store back there called Miss Behavin… and I’m sure we could find something great-”
“Max! I’m not buying my girlfriend’s Christmas present from a sex store!” I dropped my face into my hands, what was I thinking inviting Max? “Geno agrees with me.” He smiled, pointing at the Russian that was towering over us.
“He’s only agreeing with you cause he doesn’t know what we’re talking about. He heard sex… that’s it. I doubt he’d buy something for Oksana from there.” At the sound of his girlfriends name, the grin faded off Geno’s face and he glanced around fearfully; as if somehow she had been magically transported from Russia. “It’s alright man, she’s not here.” I laughed, pushing myself off the bench.
“I’d much rather go to the sex store but… I listened to Max last year and Heather wasn’t too excited about that…” Jordan shook his head, raising his eyebrows like he was still surprised by that fact.
I appraised my friends a minute longer. “Jewellery it is.” I said, heading back towards Tiffany’s, Crosby falling into step behind me.
“Hey! When you turn this one sideways it looks like a pair of tits!” I glanced around to see Max holding a pendent on it’s side, laughing with Geno and Jordan.
“Max! Put it down!” I sighed, turning back around to the lady behind the counter. “Yah, I think I’ll go with this one…” I said slowly, looking at Sidney to make sure he was still in agreement.
The lady smiled at me and took my credit card, heading to the back of the shop to box the pendent. “I need something else man…”
“Why do you say that?”
“I don’t know… a necklace… that’s so lame. It’s a cop-out.” I sighed, trying to make Sidney understand that I needed to get her something special, something that would show her how much she meant to me. “What do you buy the girl that has everything?” I said to myself, starting to feel self-conscious as I ran her father’s words over in my head. I was the guy that made her happy, right?
“What about time?” Sidney asked suddenly, a grin appearing on his face.
“Time?”
“Yah… why don’t you give her some time for a present?” He pointed behind me and I turned around. There was a travel store across the hall from us.
A smile spread across my face. “You know what kid, that’s not a bad idea.”
I waited for the lady to come back with the necklace before heading across the hall with Sidney.
An hour and $54,000 later, I was feeling much better about Abby’s Christmas gift.
Christmas, I smiled to myself. I couldn’t wait. I couldn’t wait to introduce her to my family, show her off to my cousins and let her learn about where I came from. It was going to be a blast; and on the plus side, it had to go a lot better than Thanksgiving, right?
Lucy, the maid, brought out all the plates. The ones that were set in front of Braeden, James and myself, were piled high with delicious smelling food. Veronica, Abby’s mother, picked away at a single slice of beef and salad; Abby had a few pieces of lettuce. I looked around the table as I dug in; Abby was the only one without beef - does she not eat meat? How did I miss that?
“So Marc… how are the Polar Bears doing this year?” I took my gaze away Abby; looking right at her father.
“Umm… Penguins… and we’re doing ok.” I said slowly, turning my eyes back to Abby.
“Only ok? What position do you play?”
“Goalie.” Abby continued to push the lettuce around her plate. I reached out and put my hand on her knee, giving it a gentle squeeze.
James cleared his throat, “Goalie? So you’re not one of the big tough guys then? Don’t do a whole lot during the game…”
I knew he was insulting me, but I was too focused on Abby to truly care. “Daddy…” Abby said quietly, ending the conversation.
I ate quickly, trying to get Abby alone as soon as possible. I was getting the impression that she hadn’t been exaggeration when she explained to me how complicated this weekend was going to be.
Finally finished, I leaned back in my chair; glancing across the table at Braeden. “Well,” He said finally, pushing his chair away from the table. “I’m exhausted, think I should call it a night…” I nodded my head in agreement, following Brae’s lead and rising from the table.
I scooped up my plate from the table, causing Veronica to laugh. “Please Marc!” She cried, grabbing my wrist. “We have people for that…” She added softly, grinning at me through Botox’d features. I gave her a small smile in return before setting the plate back down.
“Of course.” I said glancing at Abby, who was also rising from her seat.
“I had them put Marc’s stuff down in the east guestroom… you can show him where that is Abby.” Her dad said slowly, not bothering to look up from where his plate.
“Sure… night daddy. Night mom.” Abby turned and walked animatedly from the room; with me hot on her heels.
We headed up the banquet-style staircase in silence, Abby walking a step ahead of me until we reached a deep red bedroom on the far side of the house. “So this is it…” She sighed, sitting down on the edge of the bed.
“Let me guess… it’s a 5 mile trek to your room?”
She started to laugh quietly, the action shaking her body gently. “Something like that… Look Marc, I’m so sorry about that…” She motioned towards the other end of the house.
“Don’t, don’t worry about it… it’s gonna take a whole lot more than that to get rid of me.” I laughed too, sitting down beside her. “… is that what you’re worried about? Why you were crying at dinner?”
She looked surprised and then embarrassed before nodding slowly. “Yah… I was scared you were going to leave…”
I shook my head, grinning; as I pushed her down on the bed and climbed on top of her. She let out a squeal, before clamping her hand to her mouth. “Shh… you’re gonna get us caught.” She giggled silently as her hands wrapped around my neck, pulling me into a deep, passionate kiss. I sighed into it and began to search for the bottom of her shirt, shoving my hands up along her the smooth, firm skin stretched across her stomach.
She shifted slightly, pushing herself downward until my hands were resting on the lace of her bra. I grinned and flipped her shirt up; causing goosebumps to rise on her skin. I put my left hand underneath the lace scooping her breast out and gently rubbing my thumb around her in tiny circles.
She sighed happily and I headed south, placing gentle kisses along her stomach. I pulled my face back, smiling down at her body, “God you’re beautiful…”
She began to recoil from me, pulling her shirt back down over herself and shooing my hand away. “What’s wrong baby?” I asked, pulling her towards me until she was in my lap.
“Nothing…” She sighed. “I just don’t want to get caught… that’s the last thing we need.” I nodded in agreement. I’m pretty sure her dad hates me already…
I smiled to myself as I thought about how great it was going to be over the Christmas break; all that time off and being able to sleep with her in my arms for all of it.
“Alright well… you should head then…” She nodded and I allowed her to get up, staring at her body as she shuffled towards the door. I smiled as I followed after her, kissing her once again before I watched her disappear down the hall.
I wanted to walk her to her room, spend as much time with her as I could; but I didn’t want to risk a run in with her parents, it felt like I was on rocky grounds already.
Plus not knowing where her room was made it a lot easier for me to ignore any thoughts I had about sneaking out to see her. “Marc… got a minute.” Lost in my thoughts I didn’t notice James approach me.
“Umm… of course.” I gave him a fake smile, hoping he didn’t know the difference.
“How much money do you make a year?” The bluntness of his question caught me off guard.
“I’m sorry… what?”
“Do you invest it? Do you have any kind of portfolio set up for yourself?”
“I invest a bit… stocks aren’t really my thing though. I mean, I save all of the money that I make…”
He exhaled loudly and appraised me for a minute before speaking again; where the hell is this conversation heading? “Listen, I’m sure that you’re a really good kid but… do you really think you’re man enough for my princess? I understand that you don’t come from money so making a couple hundred thousand a year is probably a big deal; but what if you get injured? Can you do anything else if you have to stop playing games?”
I opened my mouth about to say something, but closed it abruptly as her father continued.
“Now here’s what I’m thinking. You get yourself out, now, before my daughter gets anymore attached to you… and I won’t have a problem, ’reimbursing’ you for your trouble.”
I stared at him in astonishment, trying to wrap my brain around what was going on. “Are you trying to bribe me?”
“I wouldn’t call it that… besides, I’m sure there’s a nice girl out there for you; that you’ll be able to take care of-”
“I can take care of Abby.” I spat back harshly, trying to remember to control my temper. Normally it wasn’t an issue but this… this was beyond crude. “First off, I make over 3 million a year, thank you, and secondly, I love your daughter and nothing in this world is going to make me leave, so… you’re wasting your time.”
He glared at me, taking a step back as a look of pure disdain formed in his eyes. “You have some nerve-”
“No.” I snapped, cutting him off mid-sentence. “You have some nerve believing that your daughter can be replaced by money.” I sighed a shook my head, looking down the hallway to where Abby had disappeared a little while before. “I make her happy… isn’t that enough for you?”
I didn’t wait for an answer. I said goodnight and headed into my room, closing the door behind me. What the hell?! This has to be some kind of a joke… I thought miserably as I paced around my room. I sighed and walked back to the door, checking to see if anyone was there.
When I was sure the way was clear I headed down the hallway. I wasn’t really sure how I was going to find Abby’s room but I knew I needed to try. Her dad already hated me so, there was no real point in trying to stay on his good side.
Luckily for me; Abby’s room appeared to be the same as when she was a child - a small plaque that read ’Aberleigh’ was tacked to a door.
I pushed it open slowly to find that the room was dark; Abby’s shape was visible on the bed, tucked under the blankets. I walked over slowly and crawled in beside her. “Marc?” She whispered into the darkness.
“Yah it’s me babe. Don’t worry, I’ll be gone before anyone wakes up… I just wanted to hold you. Is that ok?” She let out a soft sigh and rolled over, wrapping her arms around me. “Goodnight Abby.” I said, kissing the top of her head before falling asleep.
Saturday we left the house, going to visit some of Abby’s friends and the places she use to hang out at; barely seeing her parents at all.
It became pretty evident based on the places she took me; that Abby wasn’t a huge fan of the ’old money’ life style - something that made me a lot more happy than it should have.
Obviously I couldn’t dislike her parents. They clearly loved her and were willing to do anything to make sure that she was safe and protected; I just hated the fact that they didn’t think I was the person to do it - at least to her father I wasn’t.
We left on Sunday, earlier than planned; but I was just as glad as Abby was to be gone. I felt horrible even thinking it, but I couldn’t wait to get away from New York.
The drive home felt longer than the drive up. I knew it was just because I wanted to be alone with Abby; go back to being happy and, for the most part, carefree. I could tell she felt it too, the need to get back to Pittsburgh, get back to our life together.
I never told her about the conversation that I had had with her father. I wasn’t exactly sure why, but it just seemed like one of those things she shouldn’t know about. No matter what her family said, it wasn’t going to effect the way I cared about her so, why overwhelm her down with the details?
“Ugh! What am I going to do!?” I yelled, flopping down on a bench in the middle of the mall.
“I don’t know.” Came the unanimous response from the people around me.
“You know… I brought you guys here to help me look for something, and you’re not doing a very good job.” I sighed as Sidney sat down beside me.
“I told you, Flower! Girls love jewellery.” He repeated for the fifth time that afternoon.
“That’s boring! Where’s your creativity?” Max said, sitting on the other side of me. “Now, there’s a little store back there called Miss Behavin… and I’m sure we could find something great-”
“Max! I’m not buying my girlfriend’s Christmas present from a sex store!” I dropped my face into my hands, what was I thinking inviting Max? “Geno agrees with me.” He smiled, pointing at the Russian that was towering over us.
“He’s only agreeing with you cause he doesn’t know what we’re talking about. He heard sex… that’s it. I doubt he’d buy something for Oksana from there.” At the sound of his girlfriends name, the grin faded off Geno’s face and he glanced around fearfully; as if somehow she had been magically transported from Russia. “It’s alright man, she’s not here.” I laughed, pushing myself off the bench.
“I’d much rather go to the sex store but… I listened to Max last year and Heather wasn’t too excited about that…” Jordan shook his head, raising his eyebrows like he was still surprised by that fact.
I appraised my friends a minute longer. “Jewellery it is.” I said, heading back towards Tiffany’s, Crosby falling into step behind me.
“Hey! When you turn this one sideways it looks like a pair of tits!” I glanced around to see Max holding a pendent on it’s side, laughing with Geno and Jordan.
“Max! Put it down!” I sighed, turning back around to the lady behind the counter. “Yah, I think I’ll go with this one…” I said slowly, looking at Sidney to make sure he was still in agreement.
The lady smiled at me and took my credit card, heading to the back of the shop to box the pendent. “I need something else man…”
“Why do you say that?”
“I don’t know… a necklace… that’s so lame. It’s a cop-out.” I sighed, trying to make Sidney understand that I needed to get her something special, something that would show her how much she meant to me. “What do you buy the girl that has everything?” I said to myself, starting to feel self-conscious as I ran her father’s words over in my head. I was the guy that made her happy, right?
“What about time?” Sidney asked suddenly, a grin appearing on his face.
“Time?”
“Yah… why don’t you give her some time for a present?” He pointed behind me and I turned around. There was a travel store across the hall from us.
A smile spread across my face. “You know what kid, that’s not a bad idea.”
I waited for the lady to come back with the necklace before heading across the hall with Sidney.
An hour and $54,000 later, I was feeling much better about Abby’s Christmas gift.
Christmas, I smiled to myself. I couldn’t wait. I couldn’t wait to introduce her to my family, show her off to my cousins and let her learn about where I came from. It was going to be a blast; and on the plus side, it had to go a lot better than Thanksgiving, right?
Thursday, September 24, 2009
This Devil Wears Stella McCartney
Aberleigh-
My eyes snapped open at the sound of the doorbell piercing through the house. I stole a quick glance at Marc, sleeping soundly next to me. My breath caught at how gorgeous he looked. Like he doesn't have a single care in the world. I kissed his forehead gently; the doorbell rang again, pulling me from the room and down the stairs to pull the door open... and revealed...
“Kris!” I yelled throwing the door open wider, pulling him into a tight hug before ushering him into the house. “When were you released?”
“Just this morning... I had Sid drop me off here. He said he'd come and pick me up on his way to practice.” He chuckled pointing at me with his cane as I motioned for him to sit at the table with me. “I might not be able to play. But I want to be back in the arena.”
“That's awesome!” I smiled brightly patting his hand gently.
“So... you and Marc are good now?” I blushed softly before shrugging. “C'mon, Abby. You can't hide anything very well... You talked?” I nodded studying my fingernails intently. “And...?”
“And... Marc dragged me to Vero's hotel room to 'talk' to us.” I sighed softly as his eyes doubled in size.
“How did that go?” I shook my head laughing gently. These boys were worse than women.
“Alright...” I shrugged. “I mean... I thought he was breaking up with me at first... I couldn't figure out why he was going to do it in front of her...” Kris chuckled at me shaking his head. “I figured he was using it as a way to get her back..” I glanced back down studying my hands.
“You know better now, I'm sure. He's got it pretty bad for you...” I sighed resting my chin in my hands.
“I know... I mean... I guess...” Kris raised a questioning eye brow at me. “God, Kris, it's just too unbelievable. Why would he want me? It doesn't make sense. Sometimes...” I sighed... returning to picking at my fingernails, “I think he just feels sorry for me...” This time it was Kris who reached out and took my hand.
“Abby, you know that's not true. Marc's in love with you, trust me. He might not have said it yet, but he doesn't have to. As far as Flower's concerned, the sun rises and sets on you.” I sighed deeply, and unconvinced. If I haven't run him off yet... My family, I'm sure, will. Kris glanced down at his watch before pushing his chair away from the table. “I've got to get going... Tell Flower I stopped by.” I smiled brightly rising next to him.
“I will.” We started walking back to the door as I remembered what I had wanted to ask him from before. “Oh Kris! One more thing... I've been meaning to ask you this. That day at the hotel with Vero; Marc said something about me, I was wondering if you could translate it for me?” He stopped slowly, nodding his head in confusion. “He said Abby est mon monde entier maintenant... or something like that...” I mumbled as he chuckled at me. “Do you know what that means?”
“Yah.. he said that to Vero?” I nodded as he shook his head. Was it that horrible? “It means...” I released a deep breath in preparation. “Abby is my whole world now...” I almost chocked on my own breath at his revelation. Seriously? He... he said that? I gave him a hug in goodbye and thanks as Sid honked his horn from the driveway. Lost in my thoughts, I turned to head up the stairs and almost ran head first into Marc.
“Eavesdropping much?” I blushed as he wrapped his arms around me.
“Nosy much?” He grinned as I buried my face into his chest, inhaling his scent. This was my happy place. All my thoughts drained letting me feel the full force of the love I felt for him. Holy cupid, Batman! I loved him! “So... I have to go to practice, but then we'll head out for New York?” I nodded gently, not moving. “Alright... Braeden's meeting us here?” Again, I nodded as he walked us the rest of the way up the stairs to grab his gear. “Or... I could skip practice...” I looked up at him to see a gleam in his eyes.
“Marc...” I sighed, smiling brightly, “as much as I would love for you to stay home... Coach Bylsma would kill me. Go to practice.” I let him go slowly as he went to get his bag before coming back for a goodbye kiss. “Go... before I change my mind!” He laughed as I waved goodbye to him from the stairs.
A few hours later I had been home and packed my things, and brought my bag back to the house, placing it at the doorway. I was standing in the kitchen, cooking, as I heard the front door crash open and Max groaning as he flopped onto the couch. Marc ignored his friend as he came straight into the kitchen.
“Mmmm.. What are you making?” He whispered into my hair as he wrapped his arms around me.
“Chicken rotini marinara.” I smiled as he nibbled gently on my neck. “There's enough for Max too...” I chuckled as Max's head sudden appeared around the corner.
“Did someone mention food?” He grinned sitting himself at the table, causing both Marc and I to grin at each other, as he made his own way to another chair. I dished two heaping platefuls, setting them on the table in front of the boys.
“Not hungry, Abbs?” Max asked around the food he was shoveling into his mouth.
“I ate earlier...” I shrugged watching them as I leaned against the counter. My mother would be so proud...
I took the plates to wash them and the boys went into the living room. I could hear Max groan loudly and Marc trying to get him to leave as his own bag hit the ground next to mine. After yet another groan I finally caved heading into the living room.
“Alright, Max... What's wrong?” He stared at me from under his arm.
“Do you have any idea what your boyfriend did to me today!? Slapped in the face by a blocker, slap shots to the stomach, tripped! I became the teams punching bag!” Shocked I turned to Marc. He did that? He met my gaze with a satisfied look on his face.
“I told them about Max's little barge in last night... apparently Sidney, Bill and Gonch decided he needed to be taught some manners...” I blushed softly, nervously laughing at him.
“Well...” my smiled grew slowly, “serves you right.”
“Et tu, Abby?” Max sighed emphatically.
“Yes, Max... Now get out.” I laughed as he groaned loudly. “You'll get no sympathy here.” Marc laughed with me as Max exaggerated his limp out the door just as Braeden came through.
“What's his problem?” Brae asked, jerking his thumb back at Max.
“Nothing a little TLC wouldn't cure...” Marc shrugged easily, heading towards the door with a couple of bags. Braeden gave me a look of confusion as I too shrugged and move to follow Marc out with the rest of our bags.
The trip to New York went better than I expected. Braeden and Marc were getting along famously. Chatting easily back and forth about hockey, how it felt to win the cup last season, and tonight's game. I felt bad taking up the front seat as I stared silently out of the window. It was better for me to stay silent. Every time I spoke, I just snapped at one of them.
Once we were finally in the locker room Marc and I found ourselves trapped in a tight embrace, neither letting go any time soon.
“Alright well... I'll see you after the game, ok babe?” I smiled into his kiss, never wanting to leave this position. I finally reluctantly let go of Marc before following my brother down the hall.
“Hey Marc!” Braeden yelled back at him. What the hell was he doing? “You gonna show Abby how you can spin like a ballerina?”
“What's he talking about?” I called back loudly as Marc chuckled and shook his head.
The game was entertaining. I forgot how much I loved watching Marc play live. It was so much better then sitting in my office. Or living room now I suppose. With 2 minutes left in the game Braeden nudged me swiftly and pointed up at the Jumbo-Tron. I glanced up quickly to see the two of us surrounded by a heart. Kiss cam? With my brother??? Oh good Lord! I shrieked as he grabbed my face licking it.
“Braeden you jackass!” I laughed hysterically, before turning my attention back to the ice, and Marc. Who was now watching us intently. I smiled brightly and waved as I saw him shake his head slowly. Ok then... Don't wave... My eyes widened as I watched him skate a short ways away from the net and spin 360degrees. I looked at Braeden in complete shock before cracking up along with him, while the crowd cheered loudly. What the hell was that?
I blocked out my brother's blabber as we headed the hour upstate after the game. Turn around, Marc... Just turn around... Say we got lost, and some how ended up in Ontario... I slightly prayed as I sighed into the dark, starry sky. I closed my eyes tightly as I knew my parents house would be coming into focus. The last thing I wanted to do is see my prison before I was stuck there.
“This is your house?” I barely heard Marc as I felt Braeden lean forward in his seat.
“Home sweet home!” He chirped, hoping out as soon as the car stopped.
“You alright, babe?” My eyes shot open as I turned to face Marc, nodding slowly. “Hey...” He took my hand in his before kissing it gently, causing a small smile to grace my face. “It's gonna be ok... I promise...” He was so cute... Promising me a good weekend. I sighed deeply giving him the best smile I could muster under the circumstances. Oh if he only knew... We both climbed out of the car together and headed towards the house. I took deep regulated breaths as I walked up the steps to the door. I heard Marc say something but I couldn't concentrate on the words. I reached for the door knob, jumping back as I heard it being swung open from the inside.
“You must be Marc!” My mother's voice flooded the air around me. Was I this bad... that I had to deal with her straight off? “I've heard so much about you!” My eyes widened in shock as I watched my mother pull my boyfriend into a tight embrace.
“You must be Abby's mother...” Marc spoke softly, “it's a pleasure to finally meet you.” She tittered softly. Here comes socialite mother... She took Marc's arm and began to lead him inside.
“So Marc... tell us everything...” I sighed deeply walking in behind them waiting for her scornful eyes to find me. “Oh Aberleigh...” She sighed disappointedly. She found me... “Just because you have a boyfriend doesn't mean you should let yourself go like that! What have you been eating?” I knew she'd notice! I can't believe I let her see me like this... I shrunk slightly under her glare. I felt Marc staring at me and I offered him a small, sheepish smile as he took my hand, looking at me in concern. Please... Please god... Let this weekend go relatively ok. I sighed as my mother prattled on in front of us.
“Princess!” A deep male voice called out to my left. I stopped dead in my tracks, dropped Marc's hand, and turned quickly.
“Daddy!” I squealed running full force into his arms. I felt like I was 9 again, safely wrapped in his arms as he rested his cheek on the top of my head.
“How's work, Princess?” He pulled me away from him as I bit my lip gently.
“I quit, Daddy...” He frowned, disappointed. “But... I'm thinking of starting my own company. A small PR firm... Specializing in anything but sports.” He chuckled looking over at Marc, who was still standing in the middle of the hallway. “Oh, Daddy...” I smiled pulling him back over to Marc.
“This is my boyfriend. Marc-Andre Fleury. Marc... This is my father, James Michaels.” Marc held his hand out for my dad and they shook hands heartily.
“So, Marc... What do you do for a living?” I rolled my eyes at my dad, knowing full well he knew what Marc did. I slid my arms through the arms of my two favourite men in the world continuing on the silent tour of our house.
“I play hockey for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sir...” I turned my face up to my dad's as he nodded thoughtfully. It didn't matter what you did to Daddy... as long as you can keep his baby safe and happy.
“And your parents?” I sent a shocked look towards Marc. We'd never talked about what our parents did... Oh god Daddy... Please don't wreck this for me!
“Well, sir... my father is a carpenter and my mother's a teacher.” Marc spoke proudly of his parents, causing me to lean over and kiss his shoulder gently, rolling my eyes as Daddy harrumphed.
“Daddy... I want to take Marc to meet Lucy and Emma.” He nodded as I tip-toed up to kiss his cheek gently before taking Marc's hand and pulling him out of harms way.
“You have sisters to?” Marc questioned as I pulled him through two large double doors. I glance back at him looking confused. Sisters?
“No... Just Braeden..” I sniffed the air as I crossed into the kitchen to find Lucy at the small table polishing silver and Emma... My dear sweet, Emma, pulling freshly baked oatmeal cookies.
“Miss Aberleigh!” Lucy called, setting her silver down and racing to envelope me in a tight hug.
“Oh, LUCY!” I cried into her shoulder. Emma shoo'd her away quickly as she took her turn to fold me into her arms. I breathed in the small black woman's scent. Always like butter cream and brown sugar. I finally pulled away from them turning back to the abandoned Marc. “Marc... This is Lucy, our head maid, and Emma... our cook.” I smiled as he nodded politely at them. Lucy simply shook her head grinning from ear to ear as she pulled him into a giant hug.
“It's good to finally meet a man that puts that kind of smile on Miss Aberleigh's face.” I blushed deeply as she let go of him so Emma could take her turn.
After mere minutes in the kitchen Emma shoo'd us into the dinning room so dinner could start.
I walked into the large formal room, dreading what would come. Generally I'd hide from dinner and spend my time with Emma and Lucy before heading up to the library with Daddy, today... no such luck.
I took my seat to Daddy's right, Marc next to me, Mum at the other end of the table and Braeden on mum's right. Before Lucy could turn to bring us our meals my mother turned to her, holding up her perfectly manicured hand.
“Oh, Lucy, please be sure to bring the plate I set aside for Aberleigh. Thank you.” My eyes welled with tears, willing them desperately not to fall. I quickly pinched Marc's arms as he looked like he was going to say something. He turned to me abruptly as I shook my head at him.
Lucy brought everyone's plates out, the three boys' plates heaped full of delicious smelling food, my mother's with one slice of beef and a salad. Mine? A salad. A small salad. I sighed deeply pushing my lettuce around my plate. As if I had an appetite after that...
My eyes snapped open at the sound of the doorbell piercing through the house. I stole a quick glance at Marc, sleeping soundly next to me. My breath caught at how gorgeous he looked. Like he doesn't have a single care in the world. I kissed his forehead gently; the doorbell rang again, pulling me from the room and down the stairs to pull the door open... and revealed...
“Kris!” I yelled throwing the door open wider, pulling him into a tight hug before ushering him into the house. “When were you released?”
“Just this morning... I had Sid drop me off here. He said he'd come and pick me up on his way to practice.” He chuckled pointing at me with his cane as I motioned for him to sit at the table with me. “I might not be able to play. But I want to be back in the arena.”
“That's awesome!” I smiled brightly patting his hand gently.
“So... you and Marc are good now?” I blushed softly before shrugging. “C'mon, Abby. You can't hide anything very well... You talked?” I nodded studying my fingernails intently. “And...?”
“And... Marc dragged me to Vero's hotel room to 'talk' to us.” I sighed softly as his eyes doubled in size.
“How did that go?” I shook my head laughing gently. These boys were worse than women.
“Alright...” I shrugged. “I mean... I thought he was breaking up with me at first... I couldn't figure out why he was going to do it in front of her...” Kris chuckled at me shaking his head. “I figured he was using it as a way to get her back..” I glanced back down studying my hands.
“You know better now, I'm sure. He's got it pretty bad for you...” I sighed resting my chin in my hands.
“I know... I mean... I guess...” Kris raised a questioning eye brow at me. “God, Kris, it's just too unbelievable. Why would he want me? It doesn't make sense. Sometimes...” I sighed... returning to picking at my fingernails, “I think he just feels sorry for me...” This time it was Kris who reached out and took my hand.
“Abby, you know that's not true. Marc's in love with you, trust me. He might not have said it yet, but he doesn't have to. As far as Flower's concerned, the sun rises and sets on you.” I sighed deeply, and unconvinced. If I haven't run him off yet... My family, I'm sure, will. Kris glanced down at his watch before pushing his chair away from the table. “I've got to get going... Tell Flower I stopped by.” I smiled brightly rising next to him.
“I will.” We started walking back to the door as I remembered what I had wanted to ask him from before. “Oh Kris! One more thing... I've been meaning to ask you this. That day at the hotel with Vero; Marc said something about me, I was wondering if you could translate it for me?” He stopped slowly, nodding his head in confusion. “He said Abby est mon monde entier maintenant... or something like that...” I mumbled as he chuckled at me. “Do you know what that means?”
“Yah.. he said that to Vero?” I nodded as he shook his head. Was it that horrible? “It means...” I released a deep breath in preparation. “Abby is my whole world now...” I almost chocked on my own breath at his revelation. Seriously? He... he said that? I gave him a hug in goodbye and thanks as Sid honked his horn from the driveway. Lost in my thoughts, I turned to head up the stairs and almost ran head first into Marc.
“Eavesdropping much?” I blushed as he wrapped his arms around me.
“Nosy much?” He grinned as I buried my face into his chest, inhaling his scent. This was my happy place. All my thoughts drained letting me feel the full force of the love I felt for him. Holy cupid, Batman! I loved him! “So... I have to go to practice, but then we'll head out for New York?” I nodded gently, not moving. “Alright... Braeden's meeting us here?” Again, I nodded as he walked us the rest of the way up the stairs to grab his gear. “Or... I could skip practice...” I looked up at him to see a gleam in his eyes.
“Marc...” I sighed, smiling brightly, “as much as I would love for you to stay home... Coach Bylsma would kill me. Go to practice.” I let him go slowly as he went to get his bag before coming back for a goodbye kiss. “Go... before I change my mind!” He laughed as I waved goodbye to him from the stairs.
A few hours later I had been home and packed my things, and brought my bag back to the house, placing it at the doorway. I was standing in the kitchen, cooking, as I heard the front door crash open and Max groaning as he flopped onto the couch. Marc ignored his friend as he came straight into the kitchen.
“Mmmm.. What are you making?” He whispered into my hair as he wrapped his arms around me.
“Chicken rotini marinara.” I smiled as he nibbled gently on my neck. “There's enough for Max too...” I chuckled as Max's head sudden appeared around the corner.
“Did someone mention food?” He grinned sitting himself at the table, causing both Marc and I to grin at each other, as he made his own way to another chair. I dished two heaping platefuls, setting them on the table in front of the boys.
“Not hungry, Abbs?” Max asked around the food he was shoveling into his mouth.
“I ate earlier...” I shrugged watching them as I leaned against the counter. My mother would be so proud...
I took the plates to wash them and the boys went into the living room. I could hear Max groan loudly and Marc trying to get him to leave as his own bag hit the ground next to mine. After yet another groan I finally caved heading into the living room.
“Alright, Max... What's wrong?” He stared at me from under his arm.
“Do you have any idea what your boyfriend did to me today!? Slapped in the face by a blocker, slap shots to the stomach, tripped! I became the teams punching bag!” Shocked I turned to Marc. He did that? He met my gaze with a satisfied look on his face.
“I told them about Max's little barge in last night... apparently Sidney, Bill and Gonch decided he needed to be taught some manners...” I blushed softly, nervously laughing at him.
“Well...” my smiled grew slowly, “serves you right.”
“Et tu, Abby?” Max sighed emphatically.
“Yes, Max... Now get out.” I laughed as he groaned loudly. “You'll get no sympathy here.” Marc laughed with me as Max exaggerated his limp out the door just as Braeden came through.
“What's his problem?” Brae asked, jerking his thumb back at Max.
“Nothing a little TLC wouldn't cure...” Marc shrugged easily, heading towards the door with a couple of bags. Braeden gave me a look of confusion as I too shrugged and move to follow Marc out with the rest of our bags.
The trip to New York went better than I expected. Braeden and Marc were getting along famously. Chatting easily back and forth about hockey, how it felt to win the cup last season, and tonight's game. I felt bad taking up the front seat as I stared silently out of the window. It was better for me to stay silent. Every time I spoke, I just snapped at one of them.
Once we were finally in the locker room Marc and I found ourselves trapped in a tight embrace, neither letting go any time soon.
“Alright well... I'll see you after the game, ok babe?” I smiled into his kiss, never wanting to leave this position. I finally reluctantly let go of Marc before following my brother down the hall.
“Hey Marc!” Braeden yelled back at him. What the hell was he doing? “You gonna show Abby how you can spin like a ballerina?”
“What's he talking about?” I called back loudly as Marc chuckled and shook his head.
The game was entertaining. I forgot how much I loved watching Marc play live. It was so much better then sitting in my office. Or living room now I suppose. With 2 minutes left in the game Braeden nudged me swiftly and pointed up at the Jumbo-Tron. I glanced up quickly to see the two of us surrounded by a heart. Kiss cam? With my brother??? Oh good Lord! I shrieked as he grabbed my face licking it.
“Braeden you jackass!” I laughed hysterically, before turning my attention back to the ice, and Marc. Who was now watching us intently. I smiled brightly and waved as I saw him shake his head slowly. Ok then... Don't wave... My eyes widened as I watched him skate a short ways away from the net and spin 360degrees. I looked at Braeden in complete shock before cracking up along with him, while the crowd cheered loudly. What the hell was that?
I blocked out my brother's blabber as we headed the hour upstate after the game. Turn around, Marc... Just turn around... Say we got lost, and some how ended up in Ontario... I slightly prayed as I sighed into the dark, starry sky. I closed my eyes tightly as I knew my parents house would be coming into focus. The last thing I wanted to do is see my prison before I was stuck there.
“This is your house?” I barely heard Marc as I felt Braeden lean forward in his seat.
“Home sweet home!” He chirped, hoping out as soon as the car stopped.
“You alright, babe?” My eyes shot open as I turned to face Marc, nodding slowly. “Hey...” He took my hand in his before kissing it gently, causing a small smile to grace my face. “It's gonna be ok... I promise...” He was so cute... Promising me a good weekend. I sighed deeply giving him the best smile I could muster under the circumstances. Oh if he only knew... We both climbed out of the car together and headed towards the house. I took deep regulated breaths as I walked up the steps to the door. I heard Marc say something but I couldn't concentrate on the words. I reached for the door knob, jumping back as I heard it being swung open from the inside.
“You must be Marc!” My mother's voice flooded the air around me. Was I this bad... that I had to deal with her straight off? “I've heard so much about you!” My eyes widened in shock as I watched my mother pull my boyfriend into a tight embrace.
“You must be Abby's mother...” Marc spoke softly, “it's a pleasure to finally meet you.” She tittered softly. Here comes socialite mother... She took Marc's arm and began to lead him inside.
“So Marc... tell us everything...” I sighed deeply walking in behind them waiting for her scornful eyes to find me. “Oh Aberleigh...” She sighed disappointedly. She found me... “Just because you have a boyfriend doesn't mean you should let yourself go like that! What have you been eating?” I knew she'd notice! I can't believe I let her see me like this... I shrunk slightly under her glare. I felt Marc staring at me and I offered him a small, sheepish smile as he took my hand, looking at me in concern. Please... Please god... Let this weekend go relatively ok. I sighed as my mother prattled on in front of us.
“Princess!” A deep male voice called out to my left. I stopped dead in my tracks, dropped Marc's hand, and turned quickly.
“Daddy!” I squealed running full force into his arms. I felt like I was 9 again, safely wrapped in his arms as he rested his cheek on the top of my head.
“How's work, Princess?” He pulled me away from him as I bit my lip gently.
“I quit, Daddy...” He frowned, disappointed. “But... I'm thinking of starting my own company. A small PR firm... Specializing in anything but sports.” He chuckled looking over at Marc, who was still standing in the middle of the hallway. “Oh, Daddy...” I smiled pulling him back over to Marc.
“This is my boyfriend. Marc-Andre Fleury. Marc... This is my father, James Michaels.” Marc held his hand out for my dad and they shook hands heartily.
“So, Marc... What do you do for a living?” I rolled my eyes at my dad, knowing full well he knew what Marc did. I slid my arms through the arms of my two favourite men in the world continuing on the silent tour of our house.
“I play hockey for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sir...” I turned my face up to my dad's as he nodded thoughtfully. It didn't matter what you did to Daddy... as long as you can keep his baby safe and happy.
“And your parents?” I sent a shocked look towards Marc. We'd never talked about what our parents did... Oh god Daddy... Please don't wreck this for me!
“Well, sir... my father is a carpenter and my mother's a teacher.” Marc spoke proudly of his parents, causing me to lean over and kiss his shoulder gently, rolling my eyes as Daddy harrumphed.
“Daddy... I want to take Marc to meet Lucy and Emma.” He nodded as I tip-toed up to kiss his cheek gently before taking Marc's hand and pulling him out of harms way.
“You have sisters to?” Marc questioned as I pulled him through two large double doors. I glance back at him looking confused. Sisters?
“No... Just Braeden..” I sniffed the air as I crossed into the kitchen to find Lucy at the small table polishing silver and Emma... My dear sweet, Emma, pulling freshly baked oatmeal cookies.
“Miss Aberleigh!” Lucy called, setting her silver down and racing to envelope me in a tight hug.
“Oh, LUCY!” I cried into her shoulder. Emma shoo'd her away quickly as she took her turn to fold me into her arms. I breathed in the small black woman's scent. Always like butter cream and brown sugar. I finally pulled away from them turning back to the abandoned Marc. “Marc... This is Lucy, our head maid, and Emma... our cook.” I smiled as he nodded politely at them. Lucy simply shook her head grinning from ear to ear as she pulled him into a giant hug.
“It's good to finally meet a man that puts that kind of smile on Miss Aberleigh's face.” I blushed deeply as she let go of him so Emma could take her turn.
After mere minutes in the kitchen Emma shoo'd us into the dinning room so dinner could start.
I walked into the large formal room, dreading what would come. Generally I'd hide from dinner and spend my time with Emma and Lucy before heading up to the library with Daddy, today... no such luck.
I took my seat to Daddy's right, Marc next to me, Mum at the other end of the table and Braeden on mum's right. Before Lucy could turn to bring us our meals my mother turned to her, holding up her perfectly manicured hand.
“Oh, Lucy, please be sure to bring the plate I set aside for Aberleigh. Thank you.” My eyes welled with tears, willing them desperately not to fall. I quickly pinched Marc's arms as he looked like he was going to say something. He turned to me abruptly as I shook my head at him.
Lucy brought everyone's plates out, the three boys' plates heaped full of delicious smelling food, my mother's with one slice of beef and a salad. Mine? A salad. A small salad. I sighed deeply pushing my lettuce around my plate. As if I had an appetite after that...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
