Aberleigh-
I escaped the arena easily enough once I got back to my office. As soon as I got home I changed into my flannel pajamas and curled up in front of my fireplace with a book. I was six pages in when my phone rang; I sighed when I saw Danielle's number.
"What kind of trouble are you in now, Danielle?" I laughed as I heard the loud thump of bass in the background.
"No trouble. Yet. Come out!" She whined into my phone.
"Dani, tonight's my night. I want to just sit by the fire and read. Relax." I laughed as she relayed this to whoever was behind her.
"Ok, Abbs. Be careful though. You're going to turn into an old bat soon." I rolled my eyes as I hung up and picked up my book again. The Time Traveller's Wife. It was an interesting concept. I mean, for the guy, you just disappear in time with no control. For Claire, who I felt I related too, you knew this man since you were six. You knew you would marry him since you were six. And as you got older, you knew he'd leave... But that didn't make it any easier.
I was so involved in my book that I actually jumped when the phone rang again. I glanced down at the caller ID. Private number? Dani's the only one who called this number, and her's isn't blocked. Work would call my cell or just email me. Who the....
"Hello?" I asked tentatively finally hitting the one button before it went to voice mail.
"Hey... Hi, Aberleigh... It's Marc-Andre. Fleury." Marc-Andre? Why was he calling? How did he get my number?
"Oh! Hi, Marc..." letting my sentence hang as what's wrong ran through my head.
"I got your number from Max. Sorry..." Of course! Max. That manipulative little snipe! After everything I said to him he couldn't help but... I took a deep breath, calming myself down from my anger at Max. It was kind of cute how much he cared about Marc. It actually made me laugh gently.
"Don't apologize. What do you need?"
"I just thought I'd see... How you were..." Oh... my... god.... He called just to see how I was??? Okay, Abbs... Calm down. You're panicking!
"I'm good thanks. Are you sure every thing's okay?" I listened to him sigh, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
"Yah, look I'm sorry about this... but I was wonder... Do you think you'd come to watch my game tomorrow?" He said the words so fast I had to slow them down in my head. Did he just ask me to a game? Professional, Aberleigh. You're a professional.
"Of course, Marc. I'm always at the home games; I need to be there in case something happens..."
"No, I know... I meant, would you watch it? Like, in the stands?" WHAT? Could I get fired for that? Would it cross the line? I hesitated thinking through everything that could and would go wrong. "I could get you some more tickets, if you wanted to take Dani with you... right behind the net!" Behind the net? Isn't that where... Oh God... He wants me to sit with the girlfriends? Why did I have a strange feel Max had everything to do with this.
"Was this Max's idea?"
"What? No-. This was my idea... Why?" Great. Now I've offended him. I sighed deeply.
"Oh! Never mind... I thought." Damnit Max, now you're messing with my head. "sure Marc. Sure, I'd love to watch your game..."
"Great! Okay, great! Ummm... you wanna get something to eat first?" I ran through my day in my head. Taking the game off, I'd need to squeeze another two hours of work into my already crazy day. I smiled as I heard him inhale sharply and hold his breath.
"Well, I actually can't..." And really shouldn't. "I'm going to have to work all day if I want to take the game off." Plus you're a player and I work for the team. "But, maybe after?" Oh god.... I hung my head as I just heard my own words. What am I saying??
"Yah, of course. I guess I'll see you tomorrow then... night."
"Good night, Marc." I sighed. I stood up from the floor and extinguished the fire before noticing a giant smile on my face. Oh god....
Danielle glared at the binder in my hands as we took our seats in the middle of the girlfriends. I could tell not a single one of them was happy I was sitting in her seat. But, that wasn't my choice. I sighed deeply and opened the binder, hoping to get a little bit more done on the skates and plates release. It was coming up fast. Shoot! I forgot to talk to advertising. I made a quick note to do that early tomorrow and continued to go through my information. I felt someone staring at me, causing me to look at and into the eyes of Marc-Andre. I smiled deeply and gave him a small wave before turning back to my work. Danielle giggled and so did some of the other girls... Oh crap... This was going to be a long game.
The game was good. Marc was good. He was playing with passion again. One of the girls, Heather, I think, she introduced her self as Jordan's girlfriend, said it had everything to do with me. But I don't really believe that. Marc did it. Not me.
Danielle and I chatted easily as we headed out to the parking lot to wait for Marc. I looked over at her again and saw the same gigantic grin on her face.
"Dani, what's going on? You're planning something." I eyed her suspiciously and caught a lone figure heading towards us slowly. Suddenly another one came running past the first. Max?
"Ready, babe?" He cooed at Dani, kissing her cheek and opening the passenger side door of her car. The car she insisted on us car pooling in this morning. No way. She nodded and grinned sliding in, as Max rounded the car to the drivers side.
"Have fun, Abbs." She grinned through the window.
"Danielle, you can not leave me here! Not by myself. Dani!" I panicked as they drove off. Shit... Now what?
I turned just as Marc was arriving.
"Where'd they go?" He asked still staring off at where the car used to be.
"To hell I hope. That was my only mode of transportation." I sighed, smoothing down my simple tulip skirt.
"Well, I'm just over here. We can go to the diner and get some food. If you're hungry." We chuckled as my stomach growled. "I just that's a yes?" I sucked in a deep breath, before loudly expelling it and nodding. Following him to his giant Range Rover.
I smiled as he opened the door for me before throwing his hockey bag in the trunk and sliding into the driver's side.
"So, did you enjoy the game?" He asked nervously.
"It was good... First time I've ever sat in the stands." I looked over at him and smiled. "Thank you." He nodded obviously embarrassed as he drove easily to the small diner near the rink. The silence that fell over us was the best silence I've ever experienced. It wasn't uncomfortable or awkward. It was like sitting next to a person you have known all your life.
We got to the diner and were whisked away to a table in the back. It was nicely secluded but still so you could see the whole restaurant. Conversation started to flow easily as we got into the basic questions of each others lives. How many siblings, where did you grow up? How'd you get into hockey? Why PR?
It turned out we had a lot more in common then both of us thought. Like, we both had one younger sibling. Me, a brother; him, a sister. We both came from small towns. Mine in upstate New York; his Quebec. We were interrupted once as the waitress came and took our orders. I laughed as he ordered a cheese burger with fries and a chocolate shake.
"Aren't you supposed to eat healthily?" I grinned having ordered a simple salad, dressing on the side.
"Shouldn't you be eating more?" He countered.
"Nope. My salad is just fine thank you." I panicked inwardly. I hated eating in front of guys in general. But in the middle of a diet was even worse. Oh well. Five more pounds.
We fell back into a comfortable silence as we both began to watch the people in the restaurant. Dinner flew by quickly and easily and I soon found myself sitting nervously in the passenger seat of Marc's SUV. Why was I so insanely nervous?
"I had a lot of fun tonight, Marc." I smiled over at him.
"Me too." He returned my smile. At that exact moment I just reacted, I leaned over and gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek. Regretting it as soon as it had happened I muttered an apology and slid out of the vehicle, running up my steps. I am such an idiot.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Redemption
I saw Aberleigh handle the reporters with so much class and sophistication; I was sure I had looked like an incompetent ass in comparison. She wrapped off the press-conference and ushered me off the stage; back towards the hallways, back towards safety.
She took off in the direction of her office and I watched her go. Suddenly I was trotting after her; not really sure why. I caught up to her and reached out, touching her arm gingerly. She stopped walking and turned; looking surprised to see me.
"Thank you," I said, unsure of what else to say - hoping she understood that I wasn’t just talking about the press-conference.
"Anytime, Marc-Andre. Anytime." She said with warmth in her voice, smiling at me genuinely. I nodded and turned towards the dressing-room; wondering if, for the first time I had one light of solace to turn to.
“What’s that smile all about Flower?” I heard someone yell as I pushed the door open. Realizing that I was grinning like an idiot, I rearranged my face into a look of apology, as I stared down at my feet.
“I’m really sorry you guys… I know that I’m playing like shit but… I’ll be better tomorrow, I promise.” I looked up to see everyone smiling at me; some with happiness, others with pity.
“No worries Flower, you can make it up against the Leafs tomorrow.” I nodded my head, thankful that I had such a great group of guys around me. “I still think you should come out tonight though…” Max continued, punching me on the shoulder.
I shook my head sheepishly, “Just calling it a night man…” To my surprise he nodded; not arguing at all. Ok… that’s not good, I sighed as I watched Max finishing getting dressed, smiling from ear to ear.
I decided it would be best if I left before something happened; Max was the type of guy that usually found a way to get what he wanted… making this a dangerous situation.
I grabbed my bag and headed for the door, relief flooding through me as I pushed it open; without being stopped. I took an apprehensive step into the hallway, “Oh hey, Flower!” I knew it… I turned around to see Max’s smiling face again. “Here.” He held out a piece of paper to me.
I turned around and looked at it, this is it, a piece of paper? “Ummm…?” I shot him a questioning glance, looking for some kind of explanation.
“I snuck into Mario’s office and got her number for you… can you believe he didn’t trust me enough to give it to me?” Everyone was watching us now; clearly confused about the exchange.
I felt eyes on me, wondering who Max was talking about. “You know, Aberleigh…”
I felt my face fill with colour as Staalsy walked towards Max, “You mean the hot PR girl?” Max nodded in acknowledgement, still holding the number out towards me. I shook my head and turned back around, heading towards the hallway.
“Max, that’s uncalled for…” I heard Sid start in on him as I headed home.
What’s he trying to prove? Just cause I didn’t sleep with her the other night he has to keep trying? He’s such an idiot some times I mean… sure she’s really, really beautiful but there’s so much more to her than that… I let out a sigh and dropped my bag on the floor. I was halfway up the hallway but I knew I’d be mad if I didn’t. I turned back around and jogged towards the locker-room.
Throwing the door open I walked past a confused looking Sidney and a grinning Geno. “Give it to me.” I said bluntly, causing Max to smile.
“Give what to you?“ He quipped back, obviously enjoying his new found game.
I let out an exasperated sigh and he pulled the number out of his pocket. I grabbed it from him and headed back out the door; hearing the room erupt with cheers and hollers as I made my way back down the hallway.
Sitting on the floor of my room, my back resting against the bed; I looked around the floor at the hundreds of pictures that surrounded me. Every new picture I found caused a sharp new stab of pain to rip through my chest. “Why did you have to leave me, babe?” I sighed as I lifted up a picture of Vero on a beach in Daytona. “I would have given you anything you wanted… I can’t believe I fucked this up so bad.” The only thing that ever mattered, the most important thing in my life and I fucked it up. What is wrong with me?
I was hazardous, broke, useless without her. I smiled for the first time since I had left the rink, as I picked up the piece of paper beside me.
I didn’t want to do it, I didn’t want to call her up and bother her with my problems; but I need someone.
I need a person to talk to; that wasn’t going to make me feel small, or pathetic. I needed a friend, I needed her.
I dialled the numbers timidly; afraid of what she’d say about me crossing this line. It rang three times before she answered. “Hello?”
“Hey…” I cleared my throat, “Hi Aberleigh… it’s Marc-Andre. Fleury.” I stumbled over my words, cursing myself for calling.
“Oh! Hi, Marc…”
“I got your number from Max, sorry…”
She let out a small laugh, “Don’t apologise, what do you need?”
To not be alone. “I just thought I’d see… how you were…” And she official thinks I’m crazy…
“I’m good thanks. Are you sure everything’s ok?”
I let out a sigh, “yah, look I’m sorry about this… but, I was wondering… Do you think you’d come watch my game tomorrow?” I blurted the last part out quickly, without thinking.
“Of course Marc. I’m always at the home games; I need to be on in case something happens…”
“No, I know… I meant, would you watch it? Like, in the stands?” When she didn’t reply I pressed on, “I could you get you some more tickets, if you wanted to take Dani with you… right behind the net!” I added as an after thought.
“Was this Max’s idea?” The reference to Max caught me off guard.
“What? No-. This was my idea… why?” I asked, obvious confusion in my voice.
“Oh! Never mind… I thought..." She let out a sigh, "sure Marc. Sure, I’d love to watch your game...”
I felt a smile break out over my face, “Great! Ok, great! Ummm… you wanna get something to eat first?” What the hell did I just say… The blood ran out of my face and I inhaled sharply… too much Marc… way too much.
Why did I even ask that?
“Well I actually can’t. I’m gonna have to work all day if I want to take the game off but, maybe after?”
“Yah, of course. I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then… night.”
“Good night, Marc.” She sighed, but I could hear the smile in her voice.
I skated around in front of the net, scrapping my skates into the crease; getting the ice ready. I leaned back on the net once I was satisfied, and took a peek behind me.
Aberleigh was there, next to Dani, a binder opened up on her lap; I had to smile at that. She was sitting up with the girlfriends; the only one not giggling or carrying on. She had this incredible air about her, so professional all the time… there was something extremely charming about her.
As if reading my mind she looked up from her work and gave me a small wave. I could hardly contain my smile as I nodded back.
The game was great. We won 5-1; best of all, I felt ok. Not incredible, but ok; which was a big improvement from where I had been. It was the difference between playing for a pay-check and playing with a purpose. It wasn’t the same as playing for Vero; doing anything you could to make the love of your life happy, but it was nice to have someone there for me.
Before leaving the ice I turned around to see Aberleigh, a friendly smile across her face as she gave me the thumbs up; at least I had made her job easier tonight, I thought happily as I filled towards the dressing room.
“And look whose back!” Max chirped happily as I made my way into the dressing room.
“Good game man,” “Good game, Flower.” Came from all corners of the room.
“See the pretty little thing sitting in Vero’s seat?” Max said smugly, nudging Kennedy in the ribs. I felt my face fall, I let out a sigh and started to undress, trying to keep my mind away from the darkness. I’d give anything for Vero to be here right now…
I showered quickly and took the back way out of the dressing room, taking great care to avoid the lounge; the lounge Vero always waited for me in.
I headed down the hallway towards the parking lot - where I was meant to meet Aberleigh and Dani.
“Good to have you back, Marc.” Mario called as he passed me, on the way down from the box. I nodded in response.
Not back, no… never back, I turned the corner and saw the two girls waiting for me, but on the mend maybe… I thought silently as I headed towards my new friend.
She took off in the direction of her office and I watched her go. Suddenly I was trotting after her; not really sure why. I caught up to her and reached out, touching her arm gingerly. She stopped walking and turned; looking surprised to see me.
"Thank you," I said, unsure of what else to say - hoping she understood that I wasn’t just talking about the press-conference.
"Anytime, Marc-Andre. Anytime." She said with warmth in her voice, smiling at me genuinely. I nodded and turned towards the dressing-room; wondering if, for the first time I had one light of solace to turn to.
“What’s that smile all about Flower?” I heard someone yell as I pushed the door open. Realizing that I was grinning like an idiot, I rearranged my face into a look of apology, as I stared down at my feet.
“I’m really sorry you guys… I know that I’m playing like shit but… I’ll be better tomorrow, I promise.” I looked up to see everyone smiling at me; some with happiness, others with pity.
“No worries Flower, you can make it up against the Leafs tomorrow.” I nodded my head, thankful that I had such a great group of guys around me. “I still think you should come out tonight though…” Max continued, punching me on the shoulder.
I shook my head sheepishly, “Just calling it a night man…” To my surprise he nodded; not arguing at all. Ok… that’s not good, I sighed as I watched Max finishing getting dressed, smiling from ear to ear.
I decided it would be best if I left before something happened; Max was the type of guy that usually found a way to get what he wanted… making this a dangerous situation.
I grabbed my bag and headed for the door, relief flooding through me as I pushed it open; without being stopped. I took an apprehensive step into the hallway, “Oh hey, Flower!” I knew it… I turned around to see Max’s smiling face again. “Here.” He held out a piece of paper to me.
I turned around and looked at it, this is it, a piece of paper? “Ummm…?” I shot him a questioning glance, looking for some kind of explanation.
“I snuck into Mario’s office and got her number for you… can you believe he didn’t trust me enough to give it to me?” Everyone was watching us now; clearly confused about the exchange.
I felt eyes on me, wondering who Max was talking about. “You know, Aberleigh…”
I felt my face fill with colour as Staalsy walked towards Max, “You mean the hot PR girl?” Max nodded in acknowledgement, still holding the number out towards me. I shook my head and turned back around, heading towards the hallway.
“Max, that’s uncalled for…” I heard Sid start in on him as I headed home.
What’s he trying to prove? Just cause I didn’t sleep with her the other night he has to keep trying? He’s such an idiot some times I mean… sure she’s really, really beautiful but there’s so much more to her than that… I let out a sigh and dropped my bag on the floor. I was halfway up the hallway but I knew I’d be mad if I didn’t. I turned back around and jogged towards the locker-room.
Throwing the door open I walked past a confused looking Sidney and a grinning Geno. “Give it to me.” I said bluntly, causing Max to smile.
“Give what to you?“ He quipped back, obviously enjoying his new found game.
I let out an exasperated sigh and he pulled the number out of his pocket. I grabbed it from him and headed back out the door; hearing the room erupt with cheers and hollers as I made my way back down the hallway.
Sitting on the floor of my room, my back resting against the bed; I looked around the floor at the hundreds of pictures that surrounded me. Every new picture I found caused a sharp new stab of pain to rip through my chest. “Why did you have to leave me, babe?” I sighed as I lifted up a picture of Vero on a beach in Daytona. “I would have given you anything you wanted… I can’t believe I fucked this up so bad.” The only thing that ever mattered, the most important thing in my life and I fucked it up. What is wrong with me?
I was hazardous, broke, useless without her. I smiled for the first time since I had left the rink, as I picked up the piece of paper beside me.
I didn’t want to do it, I didn’t want to call her up and bother her with my problems; but I need someone.
I need a person to talk to; that wasn’t going to make me feel small, or pathetic. I needed a friend, I needed her.
I dialled the numbers timidly; afraid of what she’d say about me crossing this line. It rang three times before she answered. “Hello?”
“Hey…” I cleared my throat, “Hi Aberleigh… it’s Marc-Andre. Fleury.” I stumbled over my words, cursing myself for calling.
“Oh! Hi, Marc…”
“I got your number from Max, sorry…”
She let out a small laugh, “Don’t apologise, what do you need?”
To not be alone. “I just thought I’d see… how you were…” And she official thinks I’m crazy…
“I’m good thanks. Are you sure everything’s ok?”
I let out a sigh, “yah, look I’m sorry about this… but, I was wondering… Do you think you’d come watch my game tomorrow?” I blurted the last part out quickly, without thinking.
“Of course Marc. I’m always at the home games; I need to be on in case something happens…”
“No, I know… I meant, would you watch it? Like, in the stands?” When she didn’t reply I pressed on, “I could you get you some more tickets, if you wanted to take Dani with you… right behind the net!” I added as an after thought.
“Was this Max’s idea?” The reference to Max caught me off guard.
“What? No-. This was my idea… why?” I asked, obvious confusion in my voice.
“Oh! Never mind… I thought..." She let out a sigh, "sure Marc. Sure, I’d love to watch your game...”
I felt a smile break out over my face, “Great! Ok, great! Ummm… you wanna get something to eat first?” What the hell did I just say… The blood ran out of my face and I inhaled sharply… too much Marc… way too much.
Why did I even ask that?
“Well I actually can’t. I’m gonna have to work all day if I want to take the game off but, maybe after?”
“Yah, of course. I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then… night.”
“Good night, Marc.” She sighed, but I could hear the smile in her voice.
I skated around in front of the net, scrapping my skates into the crease; getting the ice ready. I leaned back on the net once I was satisfied, and took a peek behind me.
Aberleigh was there, next to Dani, a binder opened up on her lap; I had to smile at that. She was sitting up with the girlfriends; the only one not giggling or carrying on. She had this incredible air about her, so professional all the time… there was something extremely charming about her.
As if reading my mind she looked up from her work and gave me a small wave. I could hardly contain my smile as I nodded back.
The game was great. We won 5-1; best of all, I felt ok. Not incredible, but ok; which was a big improvement from where I had been. It was the difference between playing for a pay-check and playing with a purpose. It wasn’t the same as playing for Vero; doing anything you could to make the love of your life happy, but it was nice to have someone there for me.
Before leaving the ice I turned around to see Aberleigh, a friendly smile across her face as she gave me the thumbs up; at least I had made her job easier tonight, I thought happily as I filled towards the dressing room.
“And look whose back!” Max chirped happily as I made my way into the dressing room.
“Good game man,” “Good game, Flower.” Came from all corners of the room.
“See the pretty little thing sitting in Vero’s seat?” Max said smugly, nudging Kennedy in the ribs. I felt my face fall, I let out a sigh and started to undress, trying to keep my mind away from the darkness. I’d give anything for Vero to be here right now…
I showered quickly and took the back way out of the dressing room, taking great care to avoid the lounge; the lounge Vero always waited for me in.
I headed down the hallway towards the parking lot - where I was meant to meet Aberleigh and Dani.
“Good to have you back, Marc.” Mario called as he passed me, on the way down from the box. I nodded in response.
Not back, no… never back, I turned the corner and saw the two girls waiting for me, but on the mend maybe… I thought silently as I headed towards my new friend.
Monday, September 7, 2009
What am I doing?
I sat in my office listening to the game on the radio. I didn't have any major catastrophes to contend with, just tying up loose ends here and there. It was the end of the second period and the commentators were getting anxious.
"Those Penguins are going to have to come with a great excuse to keep Fleury. I'm still saying, once a goalie goes south.... Bye bye Stanley."
Stupid commentators. What did they know? I grumbled to my self, switching off the radio and grabbing my notes off my desk before heading towards Mr. Lemieux's office, hoping that he was there to discuss the situation. As I walked up I saw Marc-Andre turning to leave. Even better.
"Mr. Fleury!" I yelled at him, finally seeing him turn towards me, a half-look of recognition on his face.
"Umm.. hey.. again.." He stammered looking everywhere but me. He couldn't remember my name. Usually that'd piss me off, but the guy just lost the love of his life. It was forgivable. Once.
"Aberleigh, Aberleigh Michaels." I smiled handing him my name so he didn't have to search for it.
"Yah, of course. We met the other night." I nodded briskly and motioned for him to follow me as I headed back towards my office.
"Sorry about taking off like that, I had to get Dani home." I gave a quick explanation about my disappearance as we came close to our destination. I didn't hear the exact words he said, but I did hear confusion in his voice about what I was talking about. "Oh, we were supposed to go eat.." I cursed myself as I could feel the heat of a blush rise to my cheeks. Why was I blushing? Sure, he was cute... Woah, Abbs... Back that thought right out of here. I shook my head gently to clear it.
"No worries, I had to leave too." He softly responded, I turned to smile over my shoulder at him. Serves Max right, trying to play matchmaker. I motioned for him to sit as we entered my office and I took my seat in front of my computer.
"Alright, so... We need to make a statement about... your... um.." I looked up at him apologetically. How do I put this diplomatically.....
"The shitty way I've been playing, you mean?" He finished for me, chuckling. He was obviously amused by my embarrassment. I moved my attention back to my computer and checked my email. Anything to take my attention away from this adorable man in front of me.
"Basically, you need to make a statement to the press. They've been waiting for once since..." Again, trouble with the diplomacy here! "the incident... and now Mario feels that after the past two games... we can't put it off any longer." I sighed as I watched him cringe over the situation he was now in. I watched him closely as he asked me what I wanted him to say. The poor man was very obviously still in a lot of pain. This woman must have meant the world to him. How could anyone compete with that? "Marc-Andre, I know this is difficult for you, but I promis it will get easier once you make this speech. The media will back off, and you... you can go back to healing." I stopped and watched him again. He looked so small. Even in my uncomfortable office chairs. I delicately reached over and gave his hand a pat, just to say hey.. I get it. It's ok to hurt. I retracted it just as quickly as he flinched against my touch. I bit back a sigh before moving to my computer and started to type. What else could I do?
I heard his voice catch in his thoart and he cleared it before he uttered a barely audible apology. I nodded briskly, business Aberleigh was back. Who needed a wounded puppy anyways?
I finished typing and hit print before crossing the room to get the print out. Sitting back down, I slid the sheet of paper towards him on my desk.
"If there's anything in there you're not ok with, I can change it. Just read it over and let me know." Now I waited. For a reaction, for a sign that there was no way he could do this. That he needed someone to pick him up off the ground. I sighed softly as his face ran through all of the emotions of grief.
"That's fine..." He announced. I could hear the tears rising in his voice. I smiled sadly and rose from my desk to give him a little privacy and me a lot of air. I moved out side of my office and slid against the now closed door, where I could hear Marc-Andres's sobs as they probably rocked his body.
I sighed agains the simple, clean smell that came off of him, at the wounded look in his eyes. At the pain that seemed to stay there. Oh God... I was in a whole heap of trouble.
I sat there for what felt like hours, but really was just over fifteen minutes. I sat there until a figure started down the hallway. Max. Crap.
"Mario sent me up looking for Flower." He announced as I scrambled to my feet.
"He needed some time." I whispered, not trusting my voice to be any louder. I cursed myself under my breath as my cheeks warmed again.
"Yah?" He asked studying me closely.
"Yah... He's having a rough time with this." I smiled sheepishly before opening my office door, finding Marc-Andre wiping the tears away. "Are you ready, Marc-Andre?" He nodded tentatively and stood smiling sadly as I motioned for him to come with me.
Max stayed pace with me as I tried desparately to push any thoughts of a certain goaltender out of my head. Marc-Andre followed a short distance behind.
We reached the conference room and I stopped the boys before stepping up to the podium.
"In light of today's occurance, Marc-Andre Fleury would like to address the press. We ask that no questions be asked at this point, those will be dealt with at a later time." I nodded and stepped off the podium, before incouraging Marc-Andre up there. I stood back and studied him as he nervously cleared his thoart, clutching onto the speech like it was a life saver.
"You like him don't you?" A voice cooed in my ear. I turned quickly to see Max grinning at me.
"No!" I hissed. "I feel bad for him. I mean... Look.. He looks so lost up there. Like a little kid, who's mum took off with out him." I sighed as Max chuckled and Marc-Andre stumbled over my words, trying to keep it together.
"I can't believe it! You really, truly like him! Oh god, this is too easy!"
"Max, leave it alone!" I warned turning on him. "The last this he needs right now is you playing cupid. Let him recover. In peace!" I turned back to see Marc-Andre finish off the release, and the hounds zeroed in. He stopped and looked over at me for direction. I easily stepped up next to him, trying not to breathe in the delicious clean smell and address the crowd.
"Thank you, all. We will present at time for questions at a later date. Goodnight." I smiled and ushered Marc-Andre off the stage. As soon as we were out of the room I moved to head back to my office so I could go home and clear my head of him. I was stopped by a light touch on my arm. I turned slowly expecting Max, but finding Marc-Andre standing there.
"Thank you," he whispered softly. I smiled genuinely.
"Anytime, Marc-Andre. Anytime." He nodded and headed towards the dressing room, leaving me standing there, watching after him. What ever was I going to do....
"Those Penguins are going to have to come with a great excuse to keep Fleury. I'm still saying, once a goalie goes south.... Bye bye Stanley."
Stupid commentators. What did they know? I grumbled to my self, switching off the radio and grabbing my notes off my desk before heading towards Mr. Lemieux's office, hoping that he was there to discuss the situation. As I walked up I saw Marc-Andre turning to leave. Even better.
"Mr. Fleury!" I yelled at him, finally seeing him turn towards me, a half-look of recognition on his face.
"Umm.. hey.. again.." He stammered looking everywhere but me. He couldn't remember my name. Usually that'd piss me off, but the guy just lost the love of his life. It was forgivable. Once.
"Aberleigh, Aberleigh Michaels." I smiled handing him my name so he didn't have to search for it.
"Yah, of course. We met the other night." I nodded briskly and motioned for him to follow me as I headed back towards my office.
"Sorry about taking off like that, I had to get Dani home." I gave a quick explanation about my disappearance as we came close to our destination. I didn't hear the exact words he said, but I did hear confusion in his voice about what I was talking about. "Oh, we were supposed to go eat.." I cursed myself as I could feel the heat of a blush rise to my cheeks. Why was I blushing? Sure, he was cute... Woah, Abbs... Back that thought right out of here. I shook my head gently to clear it.
"No worries, I had to leave too." He softly responded, I turned to smile over my shoulder at him. Serves Max right, trying to play matchmaker. I motioned for him to sit as we entered my office and I took my seat in front of my computer.
"Alright, so... We need to make a statement about... your... um.." I looked up at him apologetically. How do I put this diplomatically.....
"The shitty way I've been playing, you mean?" He finished for me, chuckling. He was obviously amused by my embarrassment. I moved my attention back to my computer and checked my email. Anything to take my attention away from this adorable man in front of me.
"Basically, you need to make a statement to the press. They've been waiting for once since..." Again, trouble with the diplomacy here! "the incident... and now Mario feels that after the past two games... we can't put it off any longer." I sighed as I watched him cringe over the situation he was now in. I watched him closely as he asked me what I wanted him to say. The poor man was very obviously still in a lot of pain. This woman must have meant the world to him. How could anyone compete with that? "Marc-Andre, I know this is difficult for you, but I promis it will get easier once you make this speech. The media will back off, and you... you can go back to healing." I stopped and watched him again. He looked so small. Even in my uncomfortable office chairs. I delicately reached over and gave his hand a pat, just to say hey.. I get it. It's ok to hurt. I retracted it just as quickly as he flinched against my touch. I bit back a sigh before moving to my computer and started to type. What else could I do?
I heard his voice catch in his thoart and he cleared it before he uttered a barely audible apology. I nodded briskly, business Aberleigh was back. Who needed a wounded puppy anyways?
I finished typing and hit print before crossing the room to get the print out. Sitting back down, I slid the sheet of paper towards him on my desk.
"If there's anything in there you're not ok with, I can change it. Just read it over and let me know." Now I waited. For a reaction, for a sign that there was no way he could do this. That he needed someone to pick him up off the ground. I sighed softly as his face ran through all of the emotions of grief.
"That's fine..." He announced. I could hear the tears rising in his voice. I smiled sadly and rose from my desk to give him a little privacy and me a lot of air. I moved out side of my office and slid against the now closed door, where I could hear Marc-Andres's sobs as they probably rocked his body.
I sighed agains the simple, clean smell that came off of him, at the wounded look in his eyes. At the pain that seemed to stay there. Oh God... I was in a whole heap of trouble.
I sat there for what felt like hours, but really was just over fifteen minutes. I sat there until a figure started down the hallway. Max. Crap.
"Mario sent me up looking for Flower." He announced as I scrambled to my feet.
"He needed some time." I whispered, not trusting my voice to be any louder. I cursed myself under my breath as my cheeks warmed again.
"Yah?" He asked studying me closely.
"Yah... He's having a rough time with this." I smiled sheepishly before opening my office door, finding Marc-Andre wiping the tears away. "Are you ready, Marc-Andre?" He nodded tentatively and stood smiling sadly as I motioned for him to come with me.
Max stayed pace with me as I tried desparately to push any thoughts of a certain goaltender out of my head. Marc-Andre followed a short distance behind.
We reached the conference room and I stopped the boys before stepping up to the podium.
"In light of today's occurance, Marc-Andre Fleury would like to address the press. We ask that no questions be asked at this point, those will be dealt with at a later time." I nodded and stepped off the podium, before incouraging Marc-Andre up there. I stood back and studied him as he nervously cleared his thoart, clutching onto the speech like it was a life saver.
"You like him don't you?" A voice cooed in my ear. I turned quickly to see Max grinning at me.
"No!" I hissed. "I feel bad for him. I mean... Look.. He looks so lost up there. Like a little kid, who's mum took off with out him." I sighed as Max chuckled and Marc-Andre stumbled over my words, trying to keep it together.
"I can't believe it! You really, truly like him! Oh god, this is too easy!"
"Max, leave it alone!" I warned turning on him. "The last this he needs right now is you playing cupid. Let him recover. In peace!" I turned back to see Marc-Andre finish off the release, and the hounds zeroed in. He stopped and looked over at me for direction. I easily stepped up next to him, trying not to breathe in the delicious clean smell and address the crowd.
"Thank you, all. We will present at time for questions at a later date. Goodnight." I smiled and ushered Marc-Andre off the stage. As soon as we were out of the room I moved to head back to my office so I could go home and clear my head of him. I was stopped by a light touch on my arm. I turned slowly expecting Max, but finding Marc-Andre standing there.
"Thank you," he whispered softly. I smiled genuinely.
"Anytime, Marc-Andre. Anytime." He nodded and headed towards the dressing room, leaving me standing there, watching after him. What ever was I going to do....
Sunday, September 6, 2009
A Woman's Touch
‘And this is Marc-Andre Fleury being pulled out of his second game this week… he has certainly lost his edge here tonight; as the Flyers lead 6-2 coming up to the end of the second period. It'll be interesting to see what the Penguins have to say about this’.
I took one last look up at her seat. The empty seat, before I hobbled off the ice. I saw the boys moving over by the walkway; to tell me not to worry about it, I’ll pick it up next game.
I didn’t want to hear it. I didn’t care. My body felt numb, on the inside and the outside. My heart wasn’t in the game and I couldn’t make my body do what it needed to do.
I was never the best goalie in the world but I wasn’t the worse either; and now here I was, watching the pucks fly by me in slow motion - to miserable to reach out and grab them.
I use to bend over backwards to make the big saves, I use to do it to see her smile and cheer; to make her proud. She didn’t care about me anymore; ironically enough it was getting harder and harder to make myself care about myself now too.
I reached the locker room, before I even realized where I was. I slumped down on the bench and sat, unmoving, in sticky, sweaty gear.
I listened to the sounds of the arena around me; hearing nothing. Seeing nothing; until Mario pulled me back.
“Marc, we need to talk…”
“I know, I’m sorry.” He laughed at me, actually laughed; I assumed it was because I was apologising with no emotion at all… obviously not sorry.
“I don’t want your apology Marc… I want you to tell me what I need to do to help you. You’re miserable, and I’m sorry for that; but you’re not the first person to loose someone that you love…”
I nodded along with him, as his words went in one ear and out the other. I had had this conversation so many times before. Was it so hard for people to realize that this wasn’t some relationship, that I wasn’t just going to get over it…
Vero was my life, my love, my reason for being. Without her I was just a shell; an empty space that had outlived it’s purpose…
“Listen, you’re going to need to give a statement after the game so, go get changed and head up to my office.” He gave me a fatherly pat on the shoulder before he left. I sat there for another minute; before I heard the buzzer going off. I headed into the showers quickly; hoping to avoid my team during their intermission.
My plan worked. I was able to hang around the shower stalls until they went back out onto the ice. I threw on a pair of grey sweats and a pens shirt before heading up to Mario’s office.
When I reached the door it was closed, so I knocked. No answer. I let out a huff before turning around, heading for the box.
“Mr. Fleury!” I heard a lady’s voice calling me. I turned towards it to see a girl speed-walking towards me in high heels, a binder clutched in her arms. It was the same girl from the other night; the one Talbot had tried to hook me up with.
“Ummm… hey… again…”
“Aberleigh, Aberleigh Michaels.” She answered for me, saving me the embarrassment of having to ask.
“Yah, of course. We met the other night.” She nodded at me and motioned for me to follow her back the way she came.
“Yah, sorry about taking off like that, I had to get Dani home.” She explained as we rounded a corner.
“What?”
“Oh, we were suppose to go eat…” She paused, blushing slightly; a reaction I didn’t understand.
I shook the thought away and continued after her, “no worries. I had to leave too.” She gave me a smile over her shoulder before leading me through an opened door and taking a seat behind a desk.
“Alright so, we need to make a statement about… your…um.” She looked up sheepishly, giving me an apologetic smile as she searched for the words.
“The shitty way I’ve been playing, you mean?” I chuckled softly as she nodded, obviously embarrassed.
She shifted through some papers and searched on her computer for a bit before talking again. “Basically, you need to make a statement to the press. They’ve been wanting one since… the incident… and now Mario feels that after the past two games, we can’t put it off any longer.” I cringed softly as she skated around Vero, thankful that she was being tactful about it.
“What do I have to say?”
She studied me for a minute, then leaned over the desk towards me. “Marc-Andre, I know this is difficult for you, but I promise it will get easier once you make this speech. The media will back off, and you can go back to healing.” Go back to healing, it was nice that someone understood. I wasn’t sulking or being difficult; I was trying to recover from the most horrific thing I had ever gone through. She reached out and patted my hand - a comforting move - but one that I was unprepared for.
I had had no physical contact with anyone since Vero left, and the unexpected warmth from another person sent a jolt through my system.
She retracted her hand quickly and went back to typing; like nothing had happened.
I watched her as I let out a sigh. “Sor-” I had cleared my throat of emotion before I could finish, “Sorry.”
She nodded, not taking her eyes off the screen.
She printed off a sheet and crossed the room to retrieve it from the printer; handing it to me on the way back. “If there’s anything in there you’re not ok with, I can change it. Just read over it and let me know.”
I looked down at the paper that I now held in my hands.
First off, I just wanted to thank everyone for being here and for allowing me to explain my side of the story.
A few days ago my long-time girlfriend and I, ended our relationship; for reasons that I do not wish the discuss.
Obviously, this time has been very hard for me, and I thank the press and the fans for respecting my privacy.
Clearly, this event has had an impact on my game play; but I am working to correct this.
With the help of the Penguins organization and my incredible team-mates, I look forward to playing up to my normal standards again soon.
Thank you for your dedication and your continued support. We look forward to another successful year here in Pittsburgh.
I looked away from the paper and nodded at her. “That’s fine…” I said through a husky voice, feeling my face warm as my emotions raged out of control again.
I set the paper back down on the desk with shaky hands drew in some deep breaths.
Aware that I was about to cry, Aberleigh excused herself from the room and walked past me, closing the door behind me.
Once again I found myself silently thanking her for understanding what I needed; as I dropped my head into my hands, and began to cry.
I took one last look up at her seat. The empty seat, before I hobbled off the ice. I saw the boys moving over by the walkway; to tell me not to worry about it, I’ll pick it up next game.
I didn’t want to hear it. I didn’t care. My body felt numb, on the inside and the outside. My heart wasn’t in the game and I couldn’t make my body do what it needed to do.
I was never the best goalie in the world but I wasn’t the worse either; and now here I was, watching the pucks fly by me in slow motion - to miserable to reach out and grab them.
I use to bend over backwards to make the big saves, I use to do it to see her smile and cheer; to make her proud. She didn’t care about me anymore; ironically enough it was getting harder and harder to make myself care about myself now too.
I reached the locker room, before I even realized where I was. I slumped down on the bench and sat, unmoving, in sticky, sweaty gear.
I listened to the sounds of the arena around me; hearing nothing. Seeing nothing; until Mario pulled me back.
“Marc, we need to talk…”
“I know, I’m sorry.” He laughed at me, actually laughed; I assumed it was because I was apologising with no emotion at all… obviously not sorry.
“I don’t want your apology Marc… I want you to tell me what I need to do to help you. You’re miserable, and I’m sorry for that; but you’re not the first person to loose someone that you love…”
I nodded along with him, as his words went in one ear and out the other. I had had this conversation so many times before. Was it so hard for people to realize that this wasn’t some relationship, that I wasn’t just going to get over it…
Vero was my life, my love, my reason for being. Without her I was just a shell; an empty space that had outlived it’s purpose…
“Listen, you’re going to need to give a statement after the game so, go get changed and head up to my office.” He gave me a fatherly pat on the shoulder before he left. I sat there for another minute; before I heard the buzzer going off. I headed into the showers quickly; hoping to avoid my team during their intermission.
My plan worked. I was able to hang around the shower stalls until they went back out onto the ice. I threw on a pair of grey sweats and a pens shirt before heading up to Mario’s office.
When I reached the door it was closed, so I knocked. No answer. I let out a huff before turning around, heading for the box.
“Mr. Fleury!” I heard a lady’s voice calling me. I turned towards it to see a girl speed-walking towards me in high heels, a binder clutched in her arms. It was the same girl from the other night; the one Talbot had tried to hook me up with.
“Ummm… hey… again…”
“Aberleigh, Aberleigh Michaels.” She answered for me, saving me the embarrassment of having to ask.
“Yah, of course. We met the other night.” She nodded at me and motioned for me to follow her back the way she came.
“Yah, sorry about taking off like that, I had to get Dani home.” She explained as we rounded a corner.
“What?”
“Oh, we were suppose to go eat…” She paused, blushing slightly; a reaction I didn’t understand.
I shook the thought away and continued after her, “no worries. I had to leave too.” She gave me a smile over her shoulder before leading me through an opened door and taking a seat behind a desk.
“Alright so, we need to make a statement about… your…um.” She looked up sheepishly, giving me an apologetic smile as she searched for the words.
“The shitty way I’ve been playing, you mean?” I chuckled softly as she nodded, obviously embarrassed.
She shifted through some papers and searched on her computer for a bit before talking again. “Basically, you need to make a statement to the press. They’ve been wanting one since… the incident… and now Mario feels that after the past two games, we can’t put it off any longer.” I cringed softly as she skated around Vero, thankful that she was being tactful about it.
“What do I have to say?”
She studied me for a minute, then leaned over the desk towards me. “Marc-Andre, I know this is difficult for you, but I promise it will get easier once you make this speech. The media will back off, and you can go back to healing.” Go back to healing, it was nice that someone understood. I wasn’t sulking or being difficult; I was trying to recover from the most horrific thing I had ever gone through. She reached out and patted my hand - a comforting move - but one that I was unprepared for.
I had had no physical contact with anyone since Vero left, and the unexpected warmth from another person sent a jolt through my system.
She retracted her hand quickly and went back to typing; like nothing had happened.
I watched her as I let out a sigh. “Sor-” I had cleared my throat of emotion before I could finish, “Sorry.”
She nodded, not taking her eyes off the screen.
She printed off a sheet and crossed the room to retrieve it from the printer; handing it to me on the way back. “If there’s anything in there you’re not ok with, I can change it. Just read over it and let me know.”
I looked down at the paper that I now held in my hands.
First off, I just wanted to thank everyone for being here and for allowing me to explain my side of the story.
A few days ago my long-time girlfriend and I, ended our relationship; for reasons that I do not wish the discuss.
Obviously, this time has been very hard for me, and I thank the press and the fans for respecting my privacy.
Clearly, this event has had an impact on my game play; but I am working to correct this.
With the help of the Penguins organization and my incredible team-mates, I look forward to playing up to my normal standards again soon.
Thank you for your dedication and your continued support. We look forward to another successful year here in Pittsburgh.
I looked away from the paper and nodded at her. “That’s fine…” I said through a husky voice, feeling my face warm as my emotions raged out of control again.
I set the paper back down on the desk with shaky hands drew in some deep breaths.
Aware that I was about to cry, Aberleigh excused herself from the room and walked past me, closing the door behind me.
Once again I found myself silently thanking her for understanding what I needed; as I dropped my head into my hands, and began to cry.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Trouble with a capital T
Aberleigh -
I stood at the bar next to Danielle watching people, as she rambled on and on about her day. My stomach groan in protest again as I sip my Gin and Tonic. That salad I had at my desk two hours ago definitely was no longer in my stomach.
Just ten more pounds, and I'd be able to give this crazy diet crap up.
I sighed as I saw Max and Geno strut through the door. Though I hoped by being here I could stop whatever trouble they got into. Dani squealed as she saw them and instantly switched topics.
"I can't believe the guys are here! Abs, did you see them!?"
"Yes, Dani, I saw. But the last thing I want to do tonight, is work at keeping Maxime Talbot and Evgeni Malkin out of trouble." I sighed turning to look at her directly. "No ideas, Danielle. He's horrible for you!"
"You don't even know him, Aberleigh!" She sighed. I watched as her eyes suddenly saddened. "I can't believe they got him to leave his house! Mary heard he basically glued himself to the couch."
"Mary shouldn't gossip like that, and who on Earth are you talking about." I turned back to the boys and saw a small guy, sitting hunched over on the couch. Oh my, it wasn't just any guy. It was Marc-Andre. "Poor kid..." I sighed as he looked so sad, almost put out as Max paraded a beautiful woman and plopped her down next to him. "Honestly, how obsurd. See, Dani, do you want a guy that doesn't let his own friend mourn?" She smiled and shrugged as we watched Max scold Marc into talking to this girl.
"He's trying to lift his spirits, it's cute."
"Yah, cute." I brought my glass to my lips and found that it was empty. I turned back to the bar and waited impatiently for the bar tender so I could order another. I heard a throat clear behind me just as the bar tender was headed towards me. I ignored the voice again as it tried to get my attention.
"I wouldn't -" I heard Danielle's voice before a hand gripped the top of my arm and spin me around.
"What the hell!" I demanded as I turned to be face to face with Max.
"I need you to come with me." He grinned his hand still gripping my arm.
"I need you to take your hands off me." I seethed trying to wrench free.
"We can do this the hard way, or the easy way."
"Max, I have no interest in-"
"It's not me." He interupted me. "I'm not taking no for an answer, are you coming or not?" I sighed and nodded, resigned to my fate. There goes my drink too. Damnit! He took his hand off my arm, but before I could escape he had slung his arm over my shoulders. I mouthed for Dani to save me, but she just smiled as he carried me off, bitch.
I sighed as he quickly led me to the feet of Marc-Andre, like a cat bringing home a present in the form of a dead bird.
"Flower! Flower! Alright so… you said no random chicks, meet… the non-random chick." His grin grew as I scowled at him. Frist he throws off the press confrence and now he thinks I'll be the lay to help out his friend? Give me a break.
I saw Marc look at me awkwardly as Max plopped me on the couch next to him and motioned to Geno to follow him. We sat in surprisingly comfortable silence for a while, before Marc finally spoke.
"Umm... I'm Marc..." He spoke softly, almost shyly. I almost smiled, through the uncomfortableness.
"Yes, I know who you are. My name’s Aberleigh Micheals, I’m a PR rep for the Penguins… I work for Mr. Lemieux." I cringed slightly at my tone when I heard what I had said. My goodness, what am I a robot or something? I scanned the bar again and saw, NO WAY! Get away from her Maxime Talbot! Damn it! I know Danielle won't go anywhere.
"Crush on, Talbot?" His voice cut through my minds death threat to Max causing me to turn to face him swiftly, shocked.
"What?" My mind ran through what he said, causing me to laugh. "Max? Oh... Oh no! Believe me, not my type at all. The girl he's hitting on is my bestfriend."
"And you're worried." He smiled slightly, the first facial expression he's probably shown.
"Wouldn't you be?" I watched him as he turned his face into a knowing grimace, causing me to laugh gently. "Trust me, I've been covering up for him for a while now... I know what he's capable of and I don't plan on letting him hurt my friend."
"It's a noble plan, although she might have other plans." He laughed softly nodding back towards the troublesome couple. I jerked my head back to see Max successfully leading Danielle towards the door.
"Ugh... no way!" I exclaimed pushing myself up off the couch and moving to follow them.
"I'll come with you. I don't want to be here anyways." I heard him call after me. I paused smiling towards him as we both hurried out the door.
"Dani!" I called after her the moment we were out of the bar. "Dani, come on. We're leaving." I sighed striding towards her.
"We're leaving too Max..." Marc's voice cut through behind me. I turned back and gave him a small smile before staring at the new couple. "We'll go get some food or something man... it's getting late." I watched Max suspiciously as he glanced between me and Marc, I'm sure he was planning something.
"Fine." Max announced, his smile growing. "We can leave and grab some food, but only if she comes with us." He grinned pulling Dani closer as she nodding like at idiot at him. Me? I groaned deeply.
"But I'm her drive-"
"Guess you'll just have to come too then." Max grinned wildly staring at me. "You got a car here?" I sighed and nodded as Max giggled like a child. I pushed Dani away from the boys and towards our car, not even knowing where we were going. Having no intentions of going for dinner.
"Damn it, Dani! What were you thinking?" I demanded when we got back to my little Ford Focus.
"What, Abs? I was having fun!" She hiccuped, climbing into the passenger side. "Try doing that every once in a while." She muttered as I closed my door. I looked over at her as I started the car and saw she had quickly passed out. Thank god.
It'll make it easier to explain to Max why we didn't go out. I had the feeling this wasn't the last time I would hear about tonight.
I stood at the bar next to Danielle watching people, as she rambled on and on about her day. My stomach groan in protest again as I sip my Gin and Tonic. That salad I had at my desk two hours ago definitely was no longer in my stomach.
Just ten more pounds, and I'd be able to give this crazy diet crap up.
I sighed as I saw Max and Geno strut through the door. Though I hoped by being here I could stop whatever trouble they got into. Dani squealed as she saw them and instantly switched topics.
"I can't believe the guys are here! Abs, did you see them!?"
"Yes, Dani, I saw. But the last thing I want to do tonight, is work at keeping Maxime Talbot and Evgeni Malkin out of trouble." I sighed turning to look at her directly. "No ideas, Danielle. He's horrible for you!"
"You don't even know him, Aberleigh!" She sighed. I watched as her eyes suddenly saddened. "I can't believe they got him to leave his house! Mary heard he basically glued himself to the couch."
"Mary shouldn't gossip like that, and who on Earth are you talking about." I turned back to the boys and saw a small guy, sitting hunched over on the couch. Oh my, it wasn't just any guy. It was Marc-Andre. "Poor kid..." I sighed as he looked so sad, almost put out as Max paraded a beautiful woman and plopped her down next to him. "Honestly, how obsurd. See, Dani, do you want a guy that doesn't let his own friend mourn?" She smiled and shrugged as we watched Max scold Marc into talking to this girl.
"He's trying to lift his spirits, it's cute."
"Yah, cute." I brought my glass to my lips and found that it was empty. I turned back to the bar and waited impatiently for the bar tender so I could order another. I heard a throat clear behind me just as the bar tender was headed towards me. I ignored the voice again as it tried to get my attention.
"I wouldn't -" I heard Danielle's voice before a hand gripped the top of my arm and spin me around.
"What the hell!" I demanded as I turned to be face to face with Max.
"I need you to come with me." He grinned his hand still gripping my arm.
"I need you to take your hands off me." I seethed trying to wrench free.
"We can do this the hard way, or the easy way."
"Max, I have no interest in-"
"It's not me." He interupted me. "I'm not taking no for an answer, are you coming or not?" I sighed and nodded, resigned to my fate. There goes my drink too. Damnit! He took his hand off my arm, but before I could escape he had slung his arm over my shoulders. I mouthed for Dani to save me, but she just smiled as he carried me off, bitch.
I sighed as he quickly led me to the feet of Marc-Andre, like a cat bringing home a present in the form of a dead bird.
"Flower! Flower! Alright so… you said no random chicks, meet… the non-random chick." His grin grew as I scowled at him. Frist he throws off the press confrence and now he thinks I'll be the lay to help out his friend? Give me a break.
I saw Marc look at me awkwardly as Max plopped me on the couch next to him and motioned to Geno to follow him. We sat in surprisingly comfortable silence for a while, before Marc finally spoke.
"Umm... I'm Marc..." He spoke softly, almost shyly. I almost smiled, through the uncomfortableness.
"Yes, I know who you are. My name’s Aberleigh Micheals, I’m a PR rep for the Penguins… I work for Mr. Lemieux." I cringed slightly at my tone when I heard what I had said. My goodness, what am I a robot or something? I scanned the bar again and saw, NO WAY! Get away from her Maxime Talbot! Damn it! I know Danielle won't go anywhere.
"Crush on, Talbot?" His voice cut through my minds death threat to Max causing me to turn to face him swiftly, shocked.
"What?" My mind ran through what he said, causing me to laugh. "Max? Oh... Oh no! Believe me, not my type at all. The girl he's hitting on is my bestfriend."
"And you're worried." He smiled slightly, the first facial expression he's probably shown.
"Wouldn't you be?" I watched him as he turned his face into a knowing grimace, causing me to laugh gently. "Trust me, I've been covering up for him for a while now... I know what he's capable of and I don't plan on letting him hurt my friend."
"It's a noble plan, although she might have other plans." He laughed softly nodding back towards the troublesome couple. I jerked my head back to see Max successfully leading Danielle towards the door.
"Ugh... no way!" I exclaimed pushing myself up off the couch and moving to follow them.
"I'll come with you. I don't want to be here anyways." I heard him call after me. I paused smiling towards him as we both hurried out the door.
"Dani!" I called after her the moment we were out of the bar. "Dani, come on. We're leaving." I sighed striding towards her.
"We're leaving too Max..." Marc's voice cut through behind me. I turned back and gave him a small smile before staring at the new couple. "We'll go get some food or something man... it's getting late." I watched Max suspiciously as he glanced between me and Marc, I'm sure he was planning something.
"Fine." Max announced, his smile growing. "We can leave and grab some food, but only if she comes with us." He grinned pulling Dani closer as she nodding like at idiot at him. Me? I groaned deeply.
"But I'm her drive-"
"Guess you'll just have to come too then." Max grinned wildly staring at me. "You got a car here?" I sighed and nodded as Max giggled like a child. I pushed Dani away from the boys and towards our car, not even knowing where we were going. Having no intentions of going for dinner.
"Damn it, Dani! What were you thinking?" I demanded when we got back to my little Ford Focus.
"What, Abs? I was having fun!" She hiccuped, climbing into the passenger side. "Try doing that every once in a while." She muttered as I closed my door. I looked over at her as I started the car and saw she had quickly passed out. Thank god.
It'll make it easier to explain to Max why we didn't go out. I had the feeling this wasn't the last time I would hear about tonight.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Bailing Out
Wedged tightly into the back of Sidney’s Range Rover; between Geno and Staal, I still wasn’t quiet sure how I had allowed this to happen. Of course I remembered Talbo running into my house, freaking out like an idiot and dragging me off the couch; but I still wasn’t quiet sure why I had actually gone along with this.
My entire world had crashed down around me yesterday - Jesus, had it only been yesterday? - and what I needed was to grieve; not party. Sidney was painfully empathetic to my plea; shooting me concerned glances in the rear-view mirror as he drove, and I could tell he didn‘t want me out here anymore than I did. Yet when it came to Max; there was just no winning. To him, there was nothing in the world that some strong liquor and loose women couldn’t fix.
Max had me more worried than the idea of the bar itself. When Max Talbot can’t stop turning around and smiling at you, it normally doesn’t end so well.
I was surprised that Mario wasn’t trying to stop this trip as it was… according to the boys, last night at the Diesel had ended up being fairly eventful; and not at all in the good way. I supposed it had a lot to do with me, and Mario’s concern for my sanity.
As Sidney pulled into the parking lot I couldn’t help but cringe. The first thing I could see was a group of girls in the line-up out front. The girl at the start of the group was wearing a shirt with my numbers; or at least what was left of it. She’d managed to rip it apart and tie it back on in some fashion; only stretched out to cover the vital areas.
I returned my eyes back to Maxime; his grin stretching across his face, threatening to take in his ears. “Gonna be a good night eh?”
I didn’t dignify him with a response, turning my eyes down to the only safe place; my lap. I felt Geno’s deep chuckle beside me as Sidney put the vehicle in park and climbed out. “It good time. Lots of girls. Smile.” Geno grabbed my arm and pulled me out into the night behind him.
“She use to live up the street from me, that’s how we met. She was the prettiest girl in the whole school but she picked me… skinny, shy me…” The girl beside me looked uncomfortable as I rattled on about Vero; but I didn’t care.
Whenever something came up that I needed to talk about I had always gone to Vero, with her gone, I found myself with no one to rant to.
“Ah, excuse us sweetness, I need to talk to my friend here.” I let out an audible sigh as Max shooed the girl away, taking her place beside me. “So, are you blind and crazy now? She was hot Flower… and she totally wanted it!”
“Max, I told you… I don’t want to hook up with some random girl.” He cracked another grin at me, like what I had just said was hilarious. I was about to ask what was so funny when he jumped up and bounded away. I was only alone for a minute before Geno approached.
“You not have good time?” He asked quietly, his deep voice blending in with the nightclubs bass; forcing me to strain my ears in order to hear him. I shrugged my shoulders, letting a huff escape me; as I slouched back onto the couch.
“Why aren’t you out there?” I asked pointing over the VIP’s railing, down into the crowd of scantily clad women.
“I find later. You need friend now.” I smiled in acknowledgement, accepting the glass he held out to me. “I here to listen, when you need.” He said before taking a swig of beer.
“You’re a good man Mr. Malkin.” I grinned, tapping my glass against his bottle. It was true. Sidney was terrified of saying the wrong thing, while Max didn’t think there was anything that needed to be said; Geno was my quiet saviour, offering me his presence without forcing me to talk.
We sat in silence and I had to admit to myself, I was glad I wasn’t at home alone. The club left a lot to be desired but, being in VIP saved me from having to interact with anyone other than my team-mates. That was until Max came back…
“Flower! Flower! Alright so… you said no random chicks, meet… the non-random chick.” He had his arm slung around the shoulders of a young woman, who looked like this was the last place she wanted to be. Max lead her over to the couch and dumped her beside me; signalling for Geno to follow him. Together they left the sitting area, leaving me alone with the girl.
“Umm… I’m Marc…” I figured I might as well talk to her, she looked more uncomfortable than me.
“Yes, I know who you are. My name’s Aberleigh Micheals, I’m a PR rep for the Penguins… I work for Mr. Lemieux.” Even in this setting she sounded professional as she spook. She didn‘t look at me however, keeping her eyes fixed across the room. I followed her stare to see Max laying the charm on thick; his arms around the waist of a skinny brunette.
Mistaking her expression I asked, “Crush on Talbot?”
“What?” For the first time she pulled her eyes away from Max and turned to me. “Max? Oh… oh no! Believe me, not my type at all.” She smiled to herself, finally realizing my assumption, “The girl he’s hitting on… she’s my best friend.”
“And you’re worried.” I finished for her allowing myself to relax.
“You wouldn’t be?” I grimaced at her question, causing her to laugh. “Trust me, I’ve been covering up for him for a while now… I know what he’s capable of and I don’t plan on letting him hurt my friend.”
“It’s a noble plan, although she might have other plans.” I chuckled nodding back at the bar; where Max was successfully leading the girl towards the door.
“Ugh… no way!” She stood up, making to follow after the pair.
“I’ll come with you, I don’t want to be here anyway.” She smiled at me and we hurriedly made our way out the front door.
“Dani!” Aberleigh cried once we were clear of the bar. “Dani, come on, we’re leaving.” She sighed and made her way over to the girl.
“We’re leaving too Max…” I followed behind Aberleigh; glad have a reason to leave the bar. “We’ll go get some food or something man… it’s getting late.”
Max looked back and forth between Aberleigh and I; apparently trying to find some way to continue on with his original plans. “Fine.” He said finally, a smile spreading across his face. “We can leave and grab some food, but only if she comes with us.” Max finished, pleased with himself.
Dani nodded excitedly, smiling up at Max; while Aberleigh let out a groan. “But I’m her drive…”
“Guess you just have to come too then… you got a car here?” Max chuckled, unable to contain his pleasure any longer. Aberleigh nodded letting out a sigh as she ushered Dani towards a black car parked on the other side of the parking lot.
Now free from Dani, Max began elbowing me in the ribs; “Eh? Eh? Told you…”
I sighed and leaned against Sidney’s SUV as Max jogged back into the Diesel to find Staalsy, Sid and Geno. For a while I had actually been glad that I came; now however, I was more than ready to head home. I thought about just plastering on a smile and tagging along but I decided against it. I tried not to think about how I would normally be leaving the bar with Vero at this time, getting ready to head home and curl up together on our bed…
I could feel my emotional strength waning and I decided that I just needed to head home. With one last glance at Diesel, I pushed myself off the SUV and followed the sidewalk out into the night.
My entire world had crashed down around me yesterday - Jesus, had it only been yesterday? - and what I needed was to grieve; not party. Sidney was painfully empathetic to my plea; shooting me concerned glances in the rear-view mirror as he drove, and I could tell he didn‘t want me out here anymore than I did. Yet when it came to Max; there was just no winning. To him, there was nothing in the world that some strong liquor and loose women couldn’t fix.
Max had me more worried than the idea of the bar itself. When Max Talbot can’t stop turning around and smiling at you, it normally doesn’t end so well.
I was surprised that Mario wasn’t trying to stop this trip as it was… according to the boys, last night at the Diesel had ended up being fairly eventful; and not at all in the good way. I supposed it had a lot to do with me, and Mario’s concern for my sanity.
As Sidney pulled into the parking lot I couldn’t help but cringe. The first thing I could see was a group of girls in the line-up out front. The girl at the start of the group was wearing a shirt with my numbers; or at least what was left of it. She’d managed to rip it apart and tie it back on in some fashion; only stretched out to cover the vital areas.
I returned my eyes back to Maxime; his grin stretching across his face, threatening to take in his ears. “Gonna be a good night eh?”
I didn’t dignify him with a response, turning my eyes down to the only safe place; my lap. I felt Geno’s deep chuckle beside me as Sidney put the vehicle in park and climbed out. “It good time. Lots of girls. Smile.” Geno grabbed my arm and pulled me out into the night behind him.
“She use to live up the street from me, that’s how we met. She was the prettiest girl in the whole school but she picked me… skinny, shy me…” The girl beside me looked uncomfortable as I rattled on about Vero; but I didn’t care.
Whenever something came up that I needed to talk about I had always gone to Vero, with her gone, I found myself with no one to rant to.
“Ah, excuse us sweetness, I need to talk to my friend here.” I let out an audible sigh as Max shooed the girl away, taking her place beside me. “So, are you blind and crazy now? She was hot Flower… and she totally wanted it!”
“Max, I told you… I don’t want to hook up with some random girl.” He cracked another grin at me, like what I had just said was hilarious. I was about to ask what was so funny when he jumped up and bounded away. I was only alone for a minute before Geno approached.
“You not have good time?” He asked quietly, his deep voice blending in with the nightclubs bass; forcing me to strain my ears in order to hear him. I shrugged my shoulders, letting a huff escape me; as I slouched back onto the couch.
“Why aren’t you out there?” I asked pointing over the VIP’s railing, down into the crowd of scantily clad women.
“I find later. You need friend now.” I smiled in acknowledgement, accepting the glass he held out to me. “I here to listen, when you need.” He said before taking a swig of beer.
“You’re a good man Mr. Malkin.” I grinned, tapping my glass against his bottle. It was true. Sidney was terrified of saying the wrong thing, while Max didn’t think there was anything that needed to be said; Geno was my quiet saviour, offering me his presence without forcing me to talk.
We sat in silence and I had to admit to myself, I was glad I wasn’t at home alone. The club left a lot to be desired but, being in VIP saved me from having to interact with anyone other than my team-mates. That was until Max came back…
“Flower! Flower! Alright so… you said no random chicks, meet… the non-random chick.” He had his arm slung around the shoulders of a young woman, who looked like this was the last place she wanted to be. Max lead her over to the couch and dumped her beside me; signalling for Geno to follow him. Together they left the sitting area, leaving me alone with the girl.
“Umm… I’m Marc…” I figured I might as well talk to her, she looked more uncomfortable than me.
“Yes, I know who you are. My name’s Aberleigh Micheals, I’m a PR rep for the Penguins… I work for Mr. Lemieux.” Even in this setting she sounded professional as she spook. She didn‘t look at me however, keeping her eyes fixed across the room. I followed her stare to see Max laying the charm on thick; his arms around the waist of a skinny brunette.
Mistaking her expression I asked, “Crush on Talbot?”
“What?” For the first time she pulled her eyes away from Max and turned to me. “Max? Oh… oh no! Believe me, not my type at all.” She smiled to herself, finally realizing my assumption, “The girl he’s hitting on… she’s my best friend.”
“And you’re worried.” I finished for her allowing myself to relax.
“You wouldn’t be?” I grimaced at her question, causing her to laugh. “Trust me, I’ve been covering up for him for a while now… I know what he’s capable of and I don’t plan on letting him hurt my friend.”
“It’s a noble plan, although she might have other plans.” I chuckled nodding back at the bar; where Max was successfully leading the girl towards the door.
“Ugh… no way!” She stood up, making to follow after the pair.
“I’ll come with you, I don’t want to be here anyway.” She smiled at me and we hurriedly made our way out the front door.
“Dani!” Aberleigh cried once we were clear of the bar. “Dani, come on, we’re leaving.” She sighed and made her way over to the girl.
“We’re leaving too Max…” I followed behind Aberleigh; glad have a reason to leave the bar. “We’ll go get some food or something man… it’s getting late.”
Max looked back and forth between Aberleigh and I; apparently trying to find some way to continue on with his original plans. “Fine.” He said finally, a smile spreading across his face. “We can leave and grab some food, but only if she comes with us.” Max finished, pleased with himself.
Dani nodded excitedly, smiling up at Max; while Aberleigh let out a groan. “But I’m her drive…”
“Guess you just have to come too then… you got a car here?” Max chuckled, unable to contain his pleasure any longer. Aberleigh nodded letting out a sigh as she ushered Dani towards a black car parked on the other side of the parking lot.
Now free from Dani, Max began elbowing me in the ribs; “Eh? Eh? Told you…”
I sighed and leaned against Sidney’s SUV as Max jogged back into the Diesel to find Staalsy, Sid and Geno. For a while I had actually been glad that I came; now however, I was more than ready to head home. I thought about just plastering on a smile and tagging along but I decided against it. I tried not to think about how I would normally be leaving the bar with Vero at this time, getting ready to head home and curl up together on our bed…
I could feel my emotional strength waning and I decided that I just needed to head home. With one last glance at Diesel, I pushed myself off the SUV and followed the sidewalk out into the night.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
What am I getting into?
Aberleigh-
I stood in the back corner of the room trying to quickly write a statement to appease the press and the organization and keep the vultures of the legal department off of my back.
FINALLY! Max and Evgeni walked through the room. I determinedly walked up to them and chased them both back into the corner of the room.
"What the hell were you two bozos thinking!?" I whispered incredulously as the press slowly began to filter in.
"It not our fault." Evgeni sighed, I got that they'd probably been through this story already. "They come after us." I shifted my glare to Max as he simply stared into space, seeming upset... worried... but not at all concerned for what was happening right now. I cleared my throat loudly pulling him out of his thoughts, and causing some of the press to look over.
"Care to join me in this conversation, Mr. Talbot?" I seethed. I knew Max was a party animal but this was crossing the line. Too far buddy, it's my party now.
"Hey, I didn't know the girls were dating those goons. They never said anything and no body threw punches. All's good." He grinned, staring at me. Yes, staring. Like, 'hey I've never noticed how hot you actually are' staring at me. I shifted my own gaze and coughed gently to cover my embarressment.
"Well, when you go up there. Keep it simple. Wrong place, wrong time. No one got hurt. Nothing about punches. Got it?!" Max and Evgeni both nodded; Evgeni sheepishly, Max like he just had the best idea in the world. I didn't want to know.
I turned to the podium and saw that Ray had already started talking about Marc and asking for privacy. My heart ached thinking of how hard this actually might be for him. Most of my relationships were short and not very deep. But even those hurt when they end.
After a few minutes of questioning, Ray discreetly left and I pushed both of the boys towards the podium. Evgeni stood back a little bit allowing Max to take lead on the speaking.
"As I'm sure you've all read, last night at Diesel Evgeni and I got ourselves into a bit of a sticky situation." The crowd chuckled, and I rolled my eyes. Next time, never leave without a script. "It was simply a big misunderstanding, and the gentlemen afterwards were very understanding. Alves, if you're watching. I hope you didn't get roped into one of these too!" He grinned at a camera right infront of him. I cringed but decided not to pull it. It was Max, and beside who knows, maybe that will bring us some cross advertising.
"Wow... He didn't just say that did he?" A voice asked beside me. I jumped and looked over to see Dani standing next to me.
"Jesus, Dani! Don't do that!" I took a few deep breaths as she stood there laughing at me. "You gave me a heart attack!"
"No I didn't. Now come on let's go for drinks. There is a table at the bar with our name on it!" I looked up at the podium as Danielle grabbed my arm and began to drag me out. Max nodded that he'd wrap it up. I looked up at the ceiling and prayed. Please God, let me still have a job on Monday.
I stood in the back corner of the room trying to quickly write a statement to appease the press and the organization and keep the vultures of the legal department off of my back.
FINALLY! Max and Evgeni walked through the room. I determinedly walked up to them and chased them both back into the corner of the room.
"What the hell were you two bozos thinking!?" I whispered incredulously as the press slowly began to filter in.
"It not our fault." Evgeni sighed, I got that they'd probably been through this story already. "They come after us." I shifted my glare to Max as he simply stared into space, seeming upset... worried... but not at all concerned for what was happening right now. I cleared my throat loudly pulling him out of his thoughts, and causing some of the press to look over.
"Care to join me in this conversation, Mr. Talbot?" I seethed. I knew Max was a party animal but this was crossing the line. Too far buddy, it's my party now.
"Hey, I didn't know the girls were dating those goons. They never said anything and no body threw punches. All's good." He grinned, staring at me. Yes, staring. Like, 'hey I've never noticed how hot you actually are' staring at me. I shifted my own gaze and coughed gently to cover my embarressment.
"Well, when you go up there. Keep it simple. Wrong place, wrong time. No one got hurt. Nothing about punches. Got it?!" Max and Evgeni both nodded; Evgeni sheepishly, Max like he just had the best idea in the world. I didn't want to know.
I turned to the podium and saw that Ray had already started talking about Marc and asking for privacy. My heart ached thinking of how hard this actually might be for him. Most of my relationships were short and not very deep. But even those hurt when they end.
After a few minutes of questioning, Ray discreetly left and I pushed both of the boys towards the podium. Evgeni stood back a little bit allowing Max to take lead on the speaking.
"As I'm sure you've all read, last night at Diesel Evgeni and I got ourselves into a bit of a sticky situation." The crowd chuckled, and I rolled my eyes. Next time, never leave without a script. "It was simply a big misunderstanding, and the gentlemen afterwards were very understanding. Alves, if you're watching. I hope you didn't get roped into one of these too!" He grinned at a camera right infront of him. I cringed but decided not to pull it. It was Max, and beside who knows, maybe that will bring us some cross advertising.
"Wow... He didn't just say that did he?" A voice asked beside me. I jumped and looked over to see Dani standing next to me.
"Jesus, Dani! Don't do that!" I took a few deep breaths as she stood there laughing at me. "You gave me a heart attack!"
"No I didn't. Now come on let's go for drinks. There is a table at the bar with our name on it!" I looked up at the podium as Danielle grabbed my arm and began to drag me out. Max nodded that he'd wrap it up. I looked up at the ceiling and prayed. Please God, let me still have a job on Monday.
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