As Long As She's Smiling...

“You know... there's more than enough room for two in here...” Abby bit timidly on her lip as I felt my jaw hit the floor.

Is she… did that… did she… ugh... “A... are you sure?” I could hardly form words as I started at her form; the bubbles just reaching up to cover her…

“Don't worry...” She grinned, causing my breath to catch in my throat. “I won't look...” My laugh borderd on hysterics as she turned away from me, gently covering her eyes with her hand.

I untied my bathroom and it fell gently open. I shrugged myself out of it and tossed it over onto the towel rack. I slid over the side of the tub and into the warm water; Abby opened her eyes and gave me a brief smile before she laid back against the ceramic. Ohgod-ohgod-ohgod...
I slid towards her, pulling her feet up onto my lap. I took one in my hands, gently rubbing my thumbs along the bottom. She let out a moan, causing a grin to spread across my face, as I increased the pressure.
I slowly moved my hands upwards, unable to stay away from her any longer. My hands lightly traced the outline of her legs, then her thighs; getting closer and closer.
Finally pulling her into my lap; I felt her brush against me, causing me to exhale loudly. I looked up into her eyes, trying to keep my gaze up as I caught sight of her naked chest in my peripheral vision. I felt my face heat up as my hand moved towards her left breast, gently brushing the remnants of bubbles away from her nipple.
Abby tipped her head back slightly as a moan escaped her lips. Don't screw this up... please god, don't screw this up... Coaxing her face back down to me I hastily pulled her into a intense kiss; trying to control myself.

Her tongue moved in to meet mine just as I pulled away; the sensation on her mouth about to drain the last of my willpower. I didn’t want this to happen fast, I didn’t want go to quickly or rush anything. I loved the feeling of her ontop of me; I wanted nothing more than the spend the rest of the night like this, caressing her… exploring her…
I brought my knee up, pushing her closer towards me as I traced my tongue down her neck and onto her collarbone.
Oh no... I thought silently, as both of my hands moved on their own accord, grabbing onto her breasts before my mouth followed. I pulled one of her nipples into my mouth as I stifled a moan; instead sighing as I allowed my teeth to gently clasp against her.
She gasped and I pulled away slightly; crap, bad Marc… what did I do?
I looked up into her face, expecting to find her angry or freaked out, but instead she was smiling down at me. I closed my eyes as her hands ran through my hair, allowing me to move my lips back against her.
She began to move away, pulling my face to hers and kissing me, hard. I kissed her back, passion causing my lips to move rapidly on top of hers. Again she moved away, this time pursing her lips and moving them down over my neck… collarbone…
I was doing my best to be behaved but I was approaching my limit, I needed to have her. I brought my hands down around her thighs and began to pull her against me. I need her so bad…

“Flower? Abbs?? Where the hell are you guys?!” My eyes grew wide as Abby‘s head banged into my chin. No. No... nononononononono!

“You think they're in there, Max?” Jordan’s voice drifted outside the door and I turned around quickly, reaching for the towels.

“I know they are!” Max yelled back, pulling the door open - seconds after we covered up.

“MAX!” I spat, trying to control the rage in my voice. “Get the hell out of here!” Abby pushed her face into my chest, I knew she was mortified. Way to go Max… if anyone can ruin a moment…

“C'mon, Flower. PAR-TAY!” Max started to do a dance in the doorway. “Hi Abbs.” He added as an afterthought. “Put some clothes on... and come downstairs. The guys are here!” He turned and left, leaving the bathroom door open. You can’t kill him… people would be mad… he’s your friend… you shouldn’t kill him… I tried to reason with myself, but all ideas were pointing at the fact that I needed to kill Max… ugh! How could he do this to me?


“Jesus… I feel like we walked in on a séance… what the hell were you guys doing?” I stared incredulity at Jordan as I headed down the stairs, Abby in tow. The room that I had spent so long trying to prepare, now really did resemble something from a ghost story.
The candles were still burning, everywhere; but the presence of so many people had sucked the romance and sensuality right out of the air. I sighed as we reached the bottom, Abby staying behind me, nuzzling into my back as I headed into the kitchen.

“Are you ok Marc?” She asked quietly as bent down to grab a beer from the fridge.

I shook my head. “Remind me again why it would be a bad idea to kill Max?” I turned around to face her, finding her laughing at me quietly.

“It’s not so bad… they can’t stay here all night, right?” Exhaling loudly, I pulled her back against me; wishing instantly that I hadn’t. Her clean, soapy scent started to assault me again as the warmth of her body brought back all the memories from upstairs.

“Let’s hope not…” I groaned, kissing the top of her head.


“I’m not moving, you get it!” I yelled at Max. I was sitting on the couch with Abby in my lap, laughing as Jordan, TK, Geno and Sidney shouted back and forth at each other; playing NHL on my Xbox.

“Fine!” Max groaned, reaching out his hand to pick up the phone. “Flower residence… hey… yah… alright. What are you wearing right now? … it is not! Why… how old are you now? … oh well, forget it I said then.” Max pulled the phone away from his face, “Flower, your sister’s on the phone.”

Abby started to laugh as I shook my head. She moved off me, allowing me to get up; I crossed the room and took the phone from Max.

“Hey Mary, what’s up?”

“Marc! I need your help!”

My blood pressure started rising immediately; hearing Mary in distress was something I wasn’t able to cope with. “Why? What’s going on?”

“Vero! It’s Vero! She-”

“She’s not my problem anymore Mary.” I said sternly, earning a sob from my sister.

“Oh well, I guess you don’t care that she’s dating Pierre now… PIERRE!”

My breath caught in my throat and I glanced around the room, wondering if anyone had noticed the sheer look of terror that had crossed my face. “Alright, I’ll give her a call tomorr-”

“No… now… please, Marc!”

“Alright, bye.” I hung up and looked at Abby; oblivious on the couch. I didn’t want to do this… everything was so perfect, I didn’t want to do something that might screw it up; but I had to. I couldn’t stand here and do nothing. If anything happened to Vero… I knew I’d blame myself.

I dialed in her number, positive that everyone in the room knew what I was doing; I could feel my face heating up. Luckily it was her that answered the phone - so I didn’t need to say her name out loud. “What in God’s name are you thinking?”

“What are you talking about Marc-Andre?”

“Pierre?… really? Have you lost your mind?!”

She didn’t answer for a minute. “Jealous?” There was sarcasm in her voice, but there was also something else; hope?

“No. Just wonder at what point you decided to date the biggest asshole in the world-”

“Marc! It’s been years since you’ve talked to him. People change-”

“Not women-beating assholes. They don’t change. You don’t think I haven’t seen this before? I know him, I know him better than you… I’ve seen what he’s capable of.”

She sighed, apparently out of patience with my rant. “He’s been nothing but nice to me Marc… he’s been a good friend.”

“Please… think about this. He’s always a nice guy until he beats someone senseless. Did you forget about Olivia? Remember in grade ten, when he broke her nose?”

“She fell Marc, and I’m done of this conversation.” I snorted in response.

“Fine. Don’t come crying to me when this goes south.” I spat, slamming down the receiver.

I turned back around to face the room; Abby was watching me, concern on her face. I gave her a weak grin and headed back over to her. “Everything ok?”

“Yah… just some… boy trouble.” I pulled her back onto my lap and pressed my face into the crook of her neck. She nodded slowly, letting out a contented sigh as she relaxed against me.



When I woke up, I was alone in bed. Abby had fallen asleep on the couch, before the guys had left; so I had carried her up here. Now, I wasn’t sure where she was.
I sighed and looked at the clock - still a while left before I need to get up. I rolled over and listened to the quiet house, realizing it wasn’t so quiet.
I crawled out of bed, tip-toeing into the hallway, before I recognized the voices. Abby was talking to Kris. Wicked! Kris is out of the hospital…
A giant grin spread across my face as I headed down the stairs; stopping once again, as I heard my name mentioned.

“How did that go?” Kris was asking.

“Alright… 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, I figured he was using it as a way to get her back.” Kris chuckled slightly as she finished. I could picture him shaking his head.

“You know better now I’m sure? He’s got it pretty bad for you…”

Abby sighed. “I know… I mean… I guess. God Kris, it’s just too unbelievable. Why would he want me? It doesn’t make sense. Sometimes I think he just feels sorry for me-”

“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 heard Abby sigh again as a chair scraped across the floor. “I got to get going… tell Flower I stopped by.”

“I will…” I got up quickly and headed back up the stairs, not wanting to be caught eavesdropping. “Oh Kris! One more thing… I was 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?”

I cocked my head to the side as I heard Kris agree; what is she talking about?

“He said… Abby est mon monde entier maintenant… or something like that… do you know what that means?”

I started to chuckle at the same time as Kris. “Yah… he said this to Vero? It means.. Abby is my whole world now…” I heard Abby inhale sharply as Kris headed for the door. He turned to say goodbye again; catching sight of me at the top or the banister. He gave me a wink, before closing the door behind me.
Abby came around the corner, jumping at the sight of me.

“Eavesdropping much?” She blushed slightly as she came up the stairs towards me.

“Nosy much?” I countered as she reached me, pulling her against my chest. I wasn't sure what to say; I felt awkward. Was that too much? Should I be worried that she knows what I think about her now? “So… I have to go to practice but then… we’ll head out for New York?” She nodded against me. “Alright, Braeden is meeting us here?” Again she nodded as I pulled her up the stairs.

The plan was for Braeden, Abby and I to drive to New York together. They would come watch my game against the Rangers and then we’d go to her parent’s house for Thanksgiving; a thought that terrified me.
Abby didn’t have the best relationship with her parents, I really hoped that they didn’t disown her because of me… They're just parents, I reminded myself, it can't be that nerve-wrecking.



“Watch out Maxime…” I called as I backhanded him across the helmet with my blocker.

“Damn Flower! What’s that about?”

“It’s about last night, you dick!” A look of comprehension crossed his face as he started to grin at me.

“Oh yah… well it's your fault! Why would you give me a key if you're just gonna be having sex all over the place?!” My jaw dropped and I started to dispute him; but he was already gone.
I laughed as Sidney caught my eye grinning; two seconds later he was knocking Max into the boards - as we had planned.

“Oh come on! What’s up with everyone today?! National hate on Talbot day or something?” I grinned to myself as I watched him getting back on his feet; he had no idea what I had in store for him this practice…


The bags were packed and ready at the back door; and Max still wouldn’t get off the couch. “Oh! It hurts…” He groaned, trying to get Abby’s attention.

“Max… seriously. Get out. We need to leave, Braeden’s going to be here any minute.” In response, Max let out another groan, earning a chuckle from Abby as she came into the living room.

“Alright Max, what’s wrong?”

“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 team’s punching bag!” Abby looked from Max to me, trying to discern if he was telling the truth.

“I told them about Max’s little barge in last night… apparently Sidney, Bill and Gonch decided he needed to be taught some manners…” She turned a slight shade of pink as she let out a chuckle.

“Well… serves you right.” She said, wrapping her arm around my waist.

Max sighed elaborately, “et tu, Abby?”




“Alright well… I’ll see you after the game, ok babe?” I drew Abby towards me and kissed her loving on the lips before letting her follow Brae down the hall.
I had initially been afraid about the drive up. After all, hours in a car with my girlfriend’s brother, had bad written all over it. Surprisingly though, it went great. Abby had told me that Braeden was a huge Ranger’s fan growing up; turns out she was right. Bribing Braeden with great seats was enough to make him forget about all the time I had screwed things up with his sister, and welcome me in with open arms. Now, if only I knew what was wrong with Abby? She had been distant and a bit testy since we left Pittsburgh; I need to put her pretty smile back on her face...

“Hey Marc!” I turned back down the way Abby and Brae had just left. “You gonna show Abby how you can spin like a ballerina?”

“What’s he talking about?” Abby asked loudly, turning around to face Braeden.

I shook my head and tried to keep the grin off my face. “I’ll see you guys after!”



We were winning; 4-1, with only 2 minutes left in the game. I turned to my left to see Abby and Braeden laughing together. Geno had just gotten into a fight and the refs were busy trying to sort it out. I sighed, and looked back at Abby.
This time, her and her brother were watching me; the latter twirling his finger in a vertical circle. I sighed and started to laugh; might as well…

I took two strides away from the net and twirled; caught off guard by the reaction. Of course my team was going to laugh, but the audience erupted into cheers. I shook my head and skated back; looking up in time see Abby laughing along with Brae. I blame youtube... I laughed at myself as I looked back up at Abby. I was going to get jazzed on for that in the locker-room, but who cares... as long as she's smiling?



“Some game man! That save in the last period… wow!” I laughed as Braeden jabbered in the back about the game; turning slightly to look at Abby. She was shaking her head and smiling slightly.

I noticed she was focused on nothing in particular, as her eyes zoned out. She had seemed animated all day; I had a feel it had to do with this weekend. Are you parents really that bad, babe? I thought silently as I turned my eyes back to the road.

I giant house loomed out of the darkness, expanding across my vision. Holy shit! “This is your house?” I asked softly, trying to conceal my awe. This place makes Mario’s house look like a bungalow… and my house look like a shed...

“Home sweet home!” Brae chimed from the backseat, causing me to chuckle in disbelief as I pulled my Rover up the drive.

As soon as the car was in park, Brae jumped out and hurried up the steps, pulling the door open and walking through.

I looked over at Abby. The look on her face told me that this was the last place she wanted to be. “You alright babe?” She nodded slowly, turning to face me. “Hey…” I grabbed her hand and pulled it to my mouth, kissing it gently. “It’s gonna be ok… promise.” She gave me a weak smile and opened the car door.
I followed her up the steps, stopping just outside the front door. “I think your door is worth more than my life…” I laughed as I took the massive, decorative frame in; if the rest of her house is like this…

I watched Abby try to compose herself as she reached for the handle. She retracted her hand back quickly as the door was pulled open. “You must be Marc! I’ve heard so much about you!”
A woman grabbed me and pulled me down for a hug. I stared at Abby, confused and afraid… she looked more worried than I did.

“You must be Abby’s mother… it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.” She laughed and ushered me inside. I was surprised, she seemed overtly friendly, but hadn’t even acknowledged Abby yet.

“So Marc, tell us everything!” I gulped as I entered the front entry; it looked like the lobby of an upscale hotel. “Oh Aberleigh… just because you’ve got a boyfriend doesn’t mean you should let yourself go like that! What have you been eating?”
I stopped dead in my tracks and turned around to face Abby. She looked small and childlike as she stood underneath the intense glare of her mother. She’s tiny… what in god’s name is she talking about? Abby, upon seeing me stare, gave me a small smile. I reached for her hand and she took it; as together we began the trek through her house.
This weekend might be more nerve-wrecking than I thought.

Something

Aberleigh-

I stared at the doors of the Holiday Inn as Marc pulled me towards the receptionist desk.

“What are we doing here?” He didn't respond. He wanted me to forgive him, but he wouldn't give me a plain, straight answer?

“Hi, I'm wondering what room Vero Larosse is in?” I barely heard his question as I watched the girl behind the counter fawn at him. You have got to be kidding me. I bit back a growl of impatience and jealousy as the question sunk into my mind. Nuh uh... No way! I am not going up there.

“215, Mr. Fleury,” the girl behind the counter sighed, batting her lashes even harder. It wouldn't take that much time to pluck put each one of those eyelashes out. I dug my heels into the floor fruitlessly as Marc began to drag me towards the elevators.

“Marc, why are you doing this to me?” I cried desperately, I didn't want to be here. Why couldn't he dump me in private! Why must everything be a scene! “Why would you take me here?” I tried to pull my hand out of his grip as we got closer to the room... 209... 211... 213... “Marc, no... NO!” I hissed as he slammed his hand against 215. I could hear the two voices inside instantly stop talking. Oh god.... I tried to take a step behind Marc to hide from Vero's icy glare as she answered the door. I watched her smile widely seeing Marc. I knew it... I turned to leave, trying again to pull my hand away, no use. Marc pulled me out next to him, causing her smile to drop instant. Great... Now I'm cat food. I watched shocked as she went to slam the door on his face. Can't she see she's won? I was even more shocked we he stopped the door easily with his hand. Wow... He sure was strong... I gulped silently as the temperature seemed to increase slightly. He pulled me into the room with him after Vero and offered the bed closest to the door for me to sit. I watched as Amanda nervously glanced between the three of us.

“Alright so...” Marc stared at Amanda before she finally buckled under his glare and left quietly. “We need to figure something out here... and we need to do it now.” I heard him talk as I studied the carpet. I didn't even want to be here, let alone discussing anything with anyone. “Vero... I'm sorry that you're miserable, but this isn't my fault. You left... but that's over and done now. I've moved on with my life and you need to do the same. I love you... you were my best friend for the longest time, but I'm not in love with you anymore.” What? I jerked my face up to see his as he spoke, his gaze strictly set on her. Did I hear that right? Was my mind playing tricks on me? Please don't be tricks! “We aren't together, and we won't ever be together... you need to accept that.” Oh... my... god... I shifted my gaze back to the floor as he started to turn to me. I wasn't quite ready to forgive him... yet. “Abby, I'm sorry that you got brought into this... I'm sorry that I didn't tell you the truth, and that I hurt you like that... I can't stand here and tell you how I'm going to make this right, but if you stick around I'll put everything into finding a way.” My heart gushed... Wide open flood gates of heaven, gushed. Don't stop talking...

“I'm not going to sit here and listen to-” She started before Marc stepped right on it.

“Yes you are.” I turned to him shocked. I had never heard him raise his voice before. It was kind of hot... “I don't deserve this Vero... I don't deserve to have you continuously fucking around with my life. I didn't do anything to you... when we were together I gave you everything. You left and that was your decision. So here's what's going to happen.” He turned to look at us both, I bit my lip to keep a smile from forming on my lips, finally he settled on her. “You can either be in my life, as a friend, or not at all. I'm gonna spend a very long time trying to convince Abby to stay with me;” If he continued like this... it wouldn't take much. “And if it works... you will not ever say anything mean or hurtful to her again; and you will not just show up anymore... that's not your house anymore.” I couldn't see her reaction, I was too riveted to Marc. They spoke gently to each other in French, meaning I understood very little. Damn high school Spanish! I did catch one thing... My breath caught as Vero spoke two of the very few words I understood in French.

“Je t’adore…” I turned my glance from him to her as he said something else. I cringed lightly as I met her gaze, as she looked up at me. I turned back to Marc as he took my hand again and pulled me up off the bad, smiling.

“You're going to be ok, Vero, you know that right?” He whispered gently before leading me back out of the door; and the hotel.

I watched out of my window, refusing to look at him, knowing as soon as I did I'd forgive him completely. I just needed to go back to my library and be mad at him again. It was lonely... but at least I knew I could get over that. I watched as my street passed us.

“Marc...” I finally turned to face him as we drove. “Shouldn't you be taking me home?” He grinned like a small boy; it honestly took everything in me to keep from grinning back. I was still mad at him. I think.

“Remember... I'm supposed to be making this up to you...”

“I never said that I was going to take you back.” I stated scornfully, more mad at myself as a blush engulfed my cheeks. I wanted to be mad, damn it! I moved back to stare out my window, desperately trying not to think about what he said in the hotel. What did he say to her...? I'd have to ask Kris later... Abby est mon monde entier maintenant. I sighed as we stopped in the driveway and I reluctantly got out of the SUV. I crossed my arms as Marc tried the door, pulled out his keys and chuckled.

“Well, shit...”

“What?” I really didn't see the humor of standing outside at the end of October; it was cold out here. He turned to me looking sheepish.

“I’m locked out…” I laughed softly as he held up his keys in disbelief.

“Marc, your key is right there, I can see it.” He pulled out his phone, quickly dialing numbers.

“No, I had the locks changed today… Max is the only one with the key now.” Max? Wait… He changed the locks? I bit the corner of my lip gently, he had to do this too me… “Hey man! Yah, I need a key to my house…” I could hear Max laugh on the other side of the phone. At least someone was being entertained. I watched as he took a seat on the steps. I guess Max is going to be a bit. I sighed gently as I sat next to him, far enough away that we weren’t in anyway touching. I felt myself being slid over to him and I sighed knowing I couldn’t fight against my heart. I smiled softly and to myself as I placed my head on his shoulder.

I was half asleep by the time Max finally arrived with the keys. I stood slowly brushing off the back of my jeans as I stood slowly; walking into the house behind the boys. I turned to say goodbye to Max as he handed me a key. Me? I looked up at Marc who just stared at Max. Did he want me to have one?

“What makes you think that I’m going to trust you with a key to my house?” Wait! Max has a key? That could mean trouble…

“I never said you were… just letting you know I have one now!” He laughed jogging down the stairs and towards his car. “You guys have fun tonight, I’m jealous… make-up sex is the best!” Oh god… I cringed, turning away from them to hide my blush, and headed slowly into the house.
I walked like a zombie up towards his bedroom; something was different, drastically different… I stopped abruptly in the hallway as I noticed. The pictures were gone! All of them. “Redecorating?”

“Umm… yah… I was actually thinking of redoing the house…” I turned to look at him, shocked. “Interested in helping out? I kind of suck at style, and matching… and… shopping in general…” I laughed softly at him collapsing on his bed. He told me he’d be back, causing me to nod. I didn’t catch the full sentence; I was too busy staring at the almost empty wall. Only three pictures remained. One of his family with the cup, one of the team, and one of Marylene, just on her own.

“It’s so blank now…” I whispered hearing him come back into the room.

“We’ll just have to fill them up again…” He whispered. I felt my resolve to be mad at him dissolve as tears flowed easily from my eyes. Why did this guy have to be so damned perfect? “Abbs…” He sighed and I felt the bed shift with his weight as he made his way to me. “I’m so sorry… I’m so sorry that I-“ I pressed my lips frantically to his, I didn’t want to hear it. I wasn’t mad. I was… I didn’t know what I was… I just felt as I wrapped my hands on the back of his neck pulling him closer to me.

He moved us gently so he was lying on top of me. All of my senses felt heightened, the touch of his hands on my sides were sending wild shivers up and down my spine, the taste of his lips couldn’t compare to the sweetest chocolate. My heart raced out of control as he lifted his body off of mine, both of us painfully aware of the other person. I sighed staring at the ceiling trying to regulate my heart and breath.

Almost as soon as I had collected myself again, he rolled over and began gently kissing along my jaw. Not fair! I’m still supposed to be mad. I think…. I turned my face towards him, forcing him to stop.

“What do we do now?” It seemed almost cruel asking that in light of everything that had happened in the last few hours. My own gaze softened as I saw the light in his, like I was the only thing he could see.

“Maintenant je tombe amoureux de vous…” He whispered huskily, if I was standing my legs probably would have given out. I loved how words sounded in his first language, so soft… I just wished I knew what it meant…

“What does that mean?” I whispered, my voice catching in my throat.

“I’ll show you,” he whispered leaning down to kiss me again. I turned my face away from him last minute to catch the yawn that escaped my lips, unwanted.

“I’m sorry…” I whispered curling into him, still fully dressed. “Can I take a rain cheque?” He nodded, as his grin slowly returned.

“Only if you promise to let me take you out for lunch tomorrow,” he whispered into my hair, lifting me gently to place me under the covers.

“Anything…” I whispered letting my eyes drift closed as he pulled me closer to him.



The next morning I opened my eyes slowly smelling… roses? I glanced around the room to see vase upon vase filled to the brim with beautiful, blood red, roses. I giggled lightly at the carpet of rose pedals I gently stepped on as I got out of bed. I followed the trail down into the kitchen where another heavenly smell was being emitted. I bit my lip against the smile forming at the sight before me. Marc was standing at the stove in a t-shirt, gym shorts and an apron. He looked so domesticated. I snuck up behind him slowly before snaking my arms around his waist and pressing my cheek onto his back.

“Smells, yummy...” I whispered softly, breathing in his smell.

“You're supposed to be in bed still.” He chuckled softly as he spun to face me in my arms.

“Couldn't sleep anymore.” I shrugged staring up at him, “the roses are gorgeous.” He shrugged as I stood on my tip toes and kissed the underside of his jaw. “Thank you.” I whispered before letting him go and tying my hair into a knot. Before I knew it he had me spun back into his arms and his lips found mine hungrily. I squealed in shock but quickly let myself go to the sensations he was creating with just his kiss.

“Good morning...” He whispered grinning as he kissed my forehead and let me go slowly.

“Good morning...” I breathed lightly, slowly sitting at the raised island to watch him cook. “What are you making?”

“It's a surprise, nosy...” He grinned over his shoulder, hiding the stove from me. I laughed at him as I waited patiently for him to finish cooking. Minutes later he slid a plate of paper thin pancakes filled with... I sniffed the air lightly.. Bananas... mmm... And covered in heavy cream. I sighed gently at them, thinking of how many calories this would be. The cream was going to kill me. “They're crepes..” He smiled brightly, waiting for me to try it. I smiled uneasily and took a small bite of one. It... was... phenomenal! I moaned softly before quickly taking a bigger forkful. “Abby... Slow down, you're going to make yourself sick.” I swung my head to meet his eyes in shock. What did he say? I swallowed my mouthful slowly.

“Pardon?” I half choked out.

“If you eat like that.. You're going to be sick.. Just slow down a bit. There's lots.” He smiled as I resumed eating at a slower pace. “So... I have to leave for practice right away, but I was thinking... I'll drop you off at home... You can let Braeden know I didn't kill you, or you didn't kill me... and maybe.. you might... pack a bag? I'll pick you up after practice for lunch?” He moved from one speed to another so quickly in that small amount that it was like watching someone playing with the fast forward and slow motion buttons on the remote. I laughed softly at him.

“I think I could handle that.” I grinned eating the last two bites of the crepes and basically licking the cream of my plate.

“I'm glad you like crepes, Abby.” He smiled taking my plate and putting it in the dishwasher along with his. “Maman makes them every morning. But it's fresh creme.” I giggled at the sound of the words out of his mouth. But almost a week of those? Oh my... It's ok... Do what you have to do...



I waved at him as he drove off after dropping me off at the house. I quickly checked the garage to ensure Braeden wasn't home before running up to my master bathroom. Before I did anything I quickly stepped onto the bathroom scale. 105... Up 3 lbs... I sighed and took a deep breath before leaning over my toilet.



I sat on my front steps in a simple high-waisted pencil skirt with a pale pink blouse and my heavy Inuit parka. It seemed to get colder and colder around here. My smile grew as I saw his familiar Range Rover pulling up down my street. I shivered involuntarily as I moved into the heat of the car.

“Cold?” He questioned rubbing my arm through the coat.

“Winter comes earlier every year.” I smiled softly over at him.

“Well, you're in for a treat then.” He grinned mischievously. What was he up to? I relaxed slowly as his hand moved up to my neck massaging it gently.

“Mmmm.” I sighed, letting my mind run through what I had packed again. Everyday clothes... Game clothes... that little black thing Danielle insisted I buy myself over Christmas last year. It might finally get so action. I sighed glancing over at Marc as he removed his hand from my neck and took my hand gently, kissing the back of it.

He motioned for me to wait in the SUV as he ran around it, opening my door and lifting me down easily.

“Ready?” He whispered into my hair, wrapping my arm in with his. I giggled lightly, nodding as I allowed him to lead me into the house. I was completely blown away at the sight he had created in his front room. There was roses every where! And in every colour. And candles scattered around the room, and even up every other stair, casting a beautiful muted light throughout.

“Oh Marc...” I breathed soaking it all in as he took my coat and my bag before leading me upstairs slowly. He opened the door to the guest bedroom and pulled me gently inside. “What are you-” I was silenced by the finger he gently placed on my lips.

“I'm cashing in that rain cheque.” He grinned. “Open the box, put everything on, and I'll come and get you when I'm ready...” I raised an eyebrow at him warily, but my worries were quickly washed away as he pecked my lips before disappearing. I turned to the large box, giggling at the scribbled note on top.

Somewhere in her smile she knows,
That I don't need no other lover.
Something in her style that shows me.
I don't want to leave her now...

I'm sure you'll look “wonderful tonight” in this.
-Marc

I laughed softly at his mixed band metaphor. But also realizing the reference was two songs written by two men for one woman. Lucky woman. I slowly lifted the lid to find a beautiful black silk kimono style short robe and... A blindfold? I chuckled as I did as I was instructed and slipped out of my clothes and into the robe. He obviously bought the robe more for himself as it barely came to the middle of my thighs, causing me to blush slightly. He knocked gently before stepping into the room, in his own robe.

“C'mon, Abby. Put on the blindfold..” He whined slightly, sliding the blindfold over my eyes and plunging my world into darkness. He took my hand and led me slowly across the hall and into... Where was I? The room echoed slightly... and the smell was divine... like honeysuckle and roses, with a little bit of orange blossom. He slowly lifted my blind fold to reveal his bathroom covered with candles, leading up to a gigantic tub filled with bubbles and flower petals.

“Oh Marc... It's gorgeous!” I sighed as he took the top of the robe in his hands.

“I won't peak... I promise...” He whispered causing me to laugh as I slowly slid the robe off, I turned to see if he was peaking just before I slid into the bubbles, true to his word he held the robe up past his face.

“You can look now, Marc...” I sighed blissfully as he lowered my robe, placing it on the hanger behind the door. “You know...” I glanced around me before turning back towards him. “There's more than enough room for two in here...” I bit the corner of my lip as his jaw dropped in shock.

“A... are you sure?” He stumbled over his words as I nodded.

“Don't worry...” A sultry smile played on my lips. “I won't look...” He chuckled softly as I covered my eyes with my hand and turned my head. True to my word, I didn't look until I felt his leg slide up next to mine and he too gave a contented sigh. I opened my eyes briefly to smile at him before lying back against the ceramic. I moaned softly as he took my foot in his hands rubbing it softly. This was heaven. He worked a few minutes each foot before slowly working up my legs, pulling me closer and closer to him. By the time he had reached my thighs I was straddling him in the tub, my top half now completely out of the water, being covered only by a few bubbles. He looked me in the eyes hesitantly before slowly brushing the bubbles of my left breast. I sighed gently against the sensation before leaning into to capture his lips in a searing kiss.

I pulled myself even close to him as mouth quickly moved from mine trailing down my neck and finding the weakest spot on my collarbone. I could help but moan against him and allow him to lean me back against his raised knees as his tongue trailed from my collarbone to circle my left nipple. I gasped slightly as he it took my nipple between his teeth. He paused looking up at me, worried. I smiled softly, running my hand through his gorgeous hair. I couldn't think, let alone talk. I moaned gently as he began to suck on my nipple, rolling the other between his thumb and forefinger. I pulled him away from my chest to steal his mouth in another kiss. This time it was me who stole away first, trailing my one hot kisses down his neck, over his adam's apple and settling for a moment on his collarbone.

“Flower? Abbs?? Where the hell are you guys?!” Max's voice pierced through my ear before he came into view. My head jerked up hitting Marc directly on the chin as we both panicked hearing the door knob turning slowly.

“You think they're in there, Max?” Jordan's voice cut through the air. Shit! Where they ALL here?

“I know they are!” Max exclaimed, pushing the door open just in time for Marc to grab us both a towel off of the rack.

“MAX!” He screamed at his friend. “Get the hell out of here!” I turned beat red as I buried my head into Marc's chest.

“C'mon, Flower. PAR-TAY!” Max cried dancing in the door way. “Hi Abbs.” I waved slightly from behind Marc, feeling too mortified to talk. “Put some clothes on... and come downstairs. The guys are here!” Max instructed as he turned to leave. Leaving, in his wake, the door wide open.

Marc stepped out of the tub gently and offered his hand to help me out, which I took gratefully.
“I guess we should get dressed...” He sighed into my wet hair as he hugged me tightly against him.

“Do we have a choice?” I asking, clinging to him just as tightly.

“I don't think we do...” He chuckled, it reverberating through me as I sighed and pulled away from him.

“See you downstairs?” I smiled as he kissed me softly.

“Not unless I see you first.” I laughed pulling away, smiling at him lovingly.

“You're such a dork, Marc-Andre.”

Blank Walls

“Ready...?” Abby asked as she stood up. She was my rock tonight; the anchor that was holding me into place, as the rest of the world spun out of control. I took one last look around the waiting room before I sighed softly and reached out for her hand. I followed her down the hallway, towards Kris’s room…
We passed two people who hugged us both; I couldn’t pay attention enough to even realize who they were - my mind was focused on the door ahead of me.
I paused outside of the room, only entering when Abby began to tug slightly on my hand.

I took one look at Kris, broken and battered, before I had to look away. He looked so young, so innocent, as he slept in the hospital bad; why did this happen to you buddy? I remembered what Max had said - drunk driver - and I felt hot tears pouring over my cheeks as Abby pulled me over to the two chairs beside the bed. This isn’t fair…
“Why you, Kris...?” Abby said quietly, as she reached out towards him; moving a piece of hair away from his face.
I watched Kris for a moment longer before my strength waned, and I began to sob uncontrollably; dropping my face into my hands. Abby’s arms came around me almost instantly and I turned into her, clutching onto her as I came undone.


The plane ride back to Pittsburgh, was the longest flight of my life. Normally I loved our road trips to Canada; but that feeling had been shifting as of late. I hated being away from Abby, for any length of time; and that, mixed with what had happened to Kris - made my need to get back all the stronger.
We had won our game against Toronto, but it was a subdued victory, one that no one truly celebrated. We were a team without a heart.


“Hey! Look who’s awake!” I shouted loudly - earning a look of disdain from a nearby nurse - as I followed Max into Kris’s room.

“Hey guys! Grats on the win…” He smiled weakly as he tried to sit up. Max held out his hand, signally for Kris to stay put.

“Would have been a lot better if you were there; they treating you alright in this place?” Max asked as he glanced around the room; an assortment of flowers, balloons and cards, covered every surface.

“Well enough… hey listen Marc, there might be a problem…” My eyes shot back to Kris as I took a step forward, looking around uselessly as I tried to discern a way to help him. “Not me!” He said quickly, holding out a hand. “Vero showed up here this morning, she was being pretty awful to Aberleigh… anyway… they had a talk in the cafeteria I guess, and… Abby didn’t come back…” He gave me an apologetic look as I exhaled loudly. I looked at the door and then back at Kris. “Don’t worry about it, I’ll catch up with you later… go fix this.” We smiled at each other as I turned and headed out the door.



A full day. We had been back for a full day, and I couldn’t get a hold of Abby at all. It was at the point where he brother was even starting to sound sorry for me.
“I’m sorry… she’s still in her room, she says she doesn’t want to talk to any of you guys… I’m sorry.” I thanked him before hanging up the phone. It’s not like I didn’t know that’s how it would go - she wasn’t even talking to Max, why would she talk to me?

I heard the front door click open, and I walked around the corner of the kitchen and out into the foyer; expecting to see Max. It was Vero.
She grinned at me as she closed the distance between us. “Get out.” I sighed, as she came to a halt in front of me. The grin fell off her face as she crossed her arms over her chest, staring at me.

“You need me Marc-Andre. I know you’re going through a hard time, but it’s okay… just let me be here for you.” I glanced behind her at the door. I promised Abby that I would get the lock changed; it had totally slipped my mind.

“What did you say to her?” I asked in a harsh tone, forcing her back a step with my glare.

“I just told her the truth! It’s obvious that you want me more Marc… you slept with me.” Vero was equally cross now, and she moved towards me; coming to stop an inch away.

“Did you tell her that?” When she didn’t answer I hung my head; how could I have forgotten about that?
It was painfully obvious now why Abby wouldn’t return my calls. At least now I knew; it was over. It was over, but I owed her an explanation. “Vero, I’m leaving now… I’m going to talk to Abby. You need to leave.”

She cocked her head and appraised me, confusion on her face. “Well, when you’re ready to talk… I’m at the Holiday Inn.” She walked away slowly, glancing back at me several times; as I stood frozen in place.

The sound of the door closing finally caused me to move, and I dashed off towards the kitchen. I dialed Max’s number into the phone. “Hey max… listen… I need your help!”

“Sure Flower, what’s up?”

“I need you to change the locks… Vero just came again and… I just… I need to prove to Abby that Vero and I are over. Could you come over while the guy does it?”

“Yah for sure… I’m on my way. You talk to her yet?”

I let out a disgruntled groan, “Not yet, I’m going over there now.”

“Good for you man. Hey, if she still won’t talk to you… you could probably get Kris to guilt her into it.”


I sat downstairs with Braeden for a long time, too long. Long enough that he was now trying to help me with Abby. “Alright…” I said after a few minutes of silence, “I’m going up.” I stood up and headed towards the stairs, Braeden followed me, watching from the bottom. “What?” I asked as I turned around and saw him grimacing. “Ok, it can’t be that bad… right?”
He wagged his eyebrows at me and shook his head sadly. Waving at me like he’d never see me again.

“Aberleigh.” I said clearly as I stood outside the door. It had been so long since I’d called her by that name, but right now, it felt like the most prudent thing to do.
I waited a minute for a response; none came. “Aberleigh… I know it’s over. I didn’t come here to try and convince you to change your mind or anything… I just, I just need to explain things to you. Please?” I sighed as I waited. The room on the other side of the door was almost silent; almost, except for the soft muffled sobs I could hear every now and then. “Aberleigh… please.”
I reached out and turned the handle on the door. It seemed futile, but to my surprise the knob turned, and the door clicked open.

I exhaled loudly as I pushed the door open. This wasn’t the room I was expecting; it wasn’t a bed room, but an office of sorts.
Aberleigh was sitting in a lounge chair, a picture in her hands. I crossed the room, timidly. I had nothing to say so I reached for the phone; dialing the number to Kris’s room.
I handed the phone over to her and she took it, avoiding my gaze as she began to mumble into the receiver.
I turned my back to her and paced around the far side of the room; trying to block out what she was saying and give her some privacy.
After a few minutes she raised her voice a tad, signalling that her conversation with Kris was over. "UGH! why can't you Penguins mind your own business! Fine! I'll talk to him!" She sounded angry as she hung up the phone, but at least she was saying something. “What do you want to explain Marc-Andre?”

I sighed as I took the seat next to her. I had spent so long trying to figure out how to get her to talk to me, that I hadn’t actually put any thought into what I was going to say if she did. “I don’t even know where to start…” I sighed honestly as I looked over at her. I could see pain and betrayal rimming her eyes; I wanted nothing more than to reach out and hold her, but I knew I couldn’t. “I’m sorry Abby… I’m sorry that I did that to you, I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you…” I shook my head and looked down, trying to think of a way to show how sorry I was.

“I want to believe you Marc, I do… but why wouldn’t you go back with her? I mean, she’s beautiful, she’s perfect, and you already have a history together… it just makes sense, it’s easiest…”

“But it’s not what I want Abby. I want you.” She sighed and started to shake her head; tears finally falling from her swollen eyes. “It’s true… Abby, you’re beautiful and you and I can make a history together…” I couldn’t hold off anymore, I got up and pulled her into my arms. She didn’t fight, but she didn’t hug me back. It didn’t matter; it was now or never. “Abby... I can't promise you that this is going to get easier. I can't even promise you that she's not going to come back around, or that we won't have to see her again.... but I can honestly say that I don't want to be with her... I'm not in love with her, Abby.
All I can promise you, is what I’m going to do from now on; and what I'm going to do is not let her come between us anymore…"

She let out a sob as I felt her lean into me more. “Yah... and how do you plan on doing that? She's done a good job so far, Marc..."

“Can you trust me enough, to come with me?” She pulled away and looked up at me, questions flashing behind her eyes. I allowed her a moment of inner turmoil before she nodded, allowing me to pull her behind me.



“What are we doing here?” She asked as I ushered her through the front doors and up to the receptionist.

“Hi, I’m wondering what room Vero Larosse is in?” I knew that under normal circumstances the front desk would never give out information like this; but the girl behind the desk batted her lashes at me, and I knew she knew who I was.

“Marc, why are you doing this to me? Why would you take me here?” I ignored Abby as I followed the hallway down to room 215. “Marc no… no!”

I slammed my hand against the door, hard. I could hear Vero talking to another woman, before getting up and making her way across the room. She pulled the door open, giving me a huge smile before realizing that Abby was beside me. Her face fell and she started to close the door, but I stopped her, holding it open with me hand.
Vero walked back into the room and I motioned for Abby to follow. Vero had plunked herself down on the far bed, beside TK’s girlfriend - Crap, why can’t I remember her name?

“Alright so…” I glanced over at the girl on the bed and she looked at Vero. She looked back at me and got up slowly, excusing herself before leaving the room; I watched the door close behind her before I continued. “We need to figure something out here… and we need to do it now.”
I looked at Vero and Abby, they were both sitting with their arms folding, looking in opposite directions. “Vero… I’m sorry that you’re miserable, but this isn’t my fault. You left…but that’s over and done now. I’ve moved on with my life and you need to do that same. I love you… you were my best friend for the longest time, but I’m not in love with you anymore. We aren’t together, and we won’t even be together… you need to accept that.
Abby, I’m sorry that you got brought into this… I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you the truth, and that I hurt you like that… I can’t stand here and tell you how I’m going to make this right, but if you stick around I’ll put everything into finding a way.”

“I’m not going to sit here and listen to-”

“Yes you are.” I shot at Vero, I could feel myself getting heated. “I don’t deserve this Vero… I don’t deserve to have you continuously fucking around with my life. I didn’t do anything to you… when we were together I gave you everything. You left and that was your decision. So here’s what’s going to happen.” I looked at both girls and saw that I had their attention; I assumed it was the fact that I was starting to curse - I normally didn’t. “You can either be in my life, as a friend, or not at all. I’m gonna spend a very long time trying to convince Abby to stay with me; and if it works… you will not ever say anything mean or hurtful to her again; and you will not just show up anymore… that‘s not your house anymore.” I stared at her as she squirmed around uncomfortably, finally looking up at me.

“Marc-Andre, est-que nous pourrions être ensemble? Encore… please?”

“Non…” I said it softly, I could see the pain that I had caused Vero etched all over her face as she watched me.

“Je t’adore…” I nodded my head, I knew she still loved me, but there was nothing I could do about that anymore.

I knew it was going to hurt her, but I had to make her understand. “Abby est mon monde entier.” Vero looked away from me, over at Abby; then she nodded slowly.

“Je suis desole.” I nodded again, smiling at her as I walked towards Abby, pulling her up beside me.

“You’re going to be ok Vero, you know that right?” She gave me a weak smile as we headed to the door.


We were halfway to my house before she realized where we were. “Marc… shouldn’t you be taking me home?” I shook my head and gave her a grin. I watched as she fought against her mouth; trying to keep the frown on her face.

“Remember… I’m suppose to be making this up to you…”

“I never said that I was going to take you back.” The smile fell off my face as I glanced over at her. Her cheeks were full of colour and I knew she was messing with me; mostly. I sighed and continued to drive towards my house.

She followed me up the walkway as I headed towards the door. I tried the doorknob, but it was locked; Max must have left… I pulled out my key and then I realized; I didn’t have a key to my house. “Well, shit…”

“What?”

“I’m locked out…”

She started to laugh, “Marc, your key is right there, I can see it.”

I shook my head as I pulled out my phone. “No, I had the locks changed today… Max is the only one with the key now.” I waited for him to answer. “Hey man! Yah, I need a key to my house…”

“Oh… shit. I’ll be there in a few.” I sighed and hung up, taking a seat on the step. Abby sat down next to me, a few inches away.
I knew I was pushing my luck, but I reached out and pulled her towards me anyway; feeling victorious as she laid her head down on my shoulder.


Max arrived after twenty minutes, laughing as he let me into my house. I held out my hand for the keys and he handed one to me, one to Abby and dangled the one on his key-chain at me. “What makes you think that I’m going to trust you with a key to my house?”

“I never said you were…just letting you know that I have one now!” He laughed as he ran back towards the car. “You guys have fun tonight, I’m jealous… make-up sex is the best!” I groaned as I turned and followed Abby into the house.

She was clearly exhausted; and I could tell she had a lot on her mind. These were the only reasons I was able to lead her to my bedroom and convince her to stay the night.
As soon as I hit the hallway I realized that something was missing. Apparently Max had redecorated too; removing every picture of Vero from my house - leaving virtually none. I looked behind me at Abby, who was looking around; obviously she had noticed too. “Redecorating?”

“Umm… yah. I was actually thinking of redoing the house… interested in helping out? I kind of suck at style, and matching… and… shopping in general…” She let out a quiet chuckle as she flopped down on my bed.

“I’ll be right back…” She nodded as I left the room, pulling my cell phone out as I did so. “Good time redecorating?” I asked Max as soon as he answered.

He let out a huge laugh before saying anything. “Yah, Jordie and I took ‘em all down… there’s like 4 boxes in the downstairs hallway. Jordan says ‘don’t take as many pictures of this girlfriend… it’s just plain creepy‘…. Seriously though, I just didn‘t want Abbs to have to look at them anymore…”

“No, I get that. Thanks man…” I sighed as I hung up.

I walked back into my room to find Abby staring at the almost empty wall. “It’s so blank now…” I followed her gaze and nodded. It was pretty empty.

“We’ll just have to fill them up again…” I said softly, watching for her reaction. She looked over at me, and I could see the tears falling liberally. “Abbs…” I moaned as I crossed the room and crawled onto the bed beside her. “I’m so sorry… I’m so sorry that I-” She cut me off with her lips.

Her hands wrapped around the back of my neck as I repositioned myself on top of her. We left of where we had started the night of the banquet. My breathing was heavy and I could hardly stop myself from pulling her clothes of; piece by piece.
Maybe it was my own punishment; but I pulled myself off of her, falling onto my back as I tried to catch my breath and keep my pants on.

After my body had cooled off a bit I pulled myself back up to her, kissing her jaw line gently. “What do we do now?” She asked suddenly, turning until she was eye to eye with me.

“Maintenant je tombe amoureux de vous…” I said in a husky whisper.

She cocked her head to the side as she appraised my grin. I knew that she couldn’t understand me, and I was thankful for that. “What does that mean?”

“I’ll show you…” I sighed softly, as I brought my lips down to her again.

Shame on Me

Aberleigh-

“You're sure you want to go this thing?” Braeden questioned me as I curled my naturally straight hair with my flat iron. “I thought you hated these people.”

“No...” I laughed taking my grandmother's antique pearl hair pins and pinning back my thick strands. “I hate the messes they get into and the work that results from that. But I never hate them.” I glanced at the mirror quickly; make-up was done the best it was going to get, hair was up. Now for the dress. Braeden followed me into my room, turning his back as I slipped off my robe and slipped on the red dress Marc bought me. It fit like a glove, with no problems... Except me.. And how my stomach paunched out, and how my butt was way too big. How on Earth could one person make a dress this gorgeous that ugly?

“You're sure you want to go with him?” Braeden asked wearily. “What if something happens?” I shook my head at him as I motioned for him to do up the top of my zipper.

“What could happen, Brae?” I shooed him downstairs as someone knocked on the door. “Be nice!” I yelled down to him. The last thing I needed was Braeden screwing this up for me. I turned back to my closet searching for my heels I had planned on wearing. There they are.. I snatched them off the floor and headed downstairs with them in my hand. I stopped at the bottom of the stairs and Braeden came over to hold me up as I put on my shoes. I smiled up at him, slipping them on easily, bringing my total height to a giant 5'6”. Ahh, heels. A vertically challenged woman's best friend. “Don't wait up, Brae. Actually... Go out. Meet a girl.” I whispered in his ear before kissing his cheek. “Bye.. Love you.”

“Love you too,” he whispered back as I wiped my brick red lipstick off of his cheek. “Be safe.”

“You too.” I winked before turning towards Marc for the first time. He was dressed in a plain black suit, which I've seen him in before, but tonight... he was... magnetizing. I felt him stare at me as I walked closer to him. Oh crap... I knew it! I look horrible! No time to change now...

“Ready to go?” He nodded after exhaling loudly. Maybe Braeden was right... Maybe I shouldn't go.. He must be so embarrassed of me. I took his hand hesitantly, and he gave mine a quick reassuring squeeze. Maybe tonight wouldn't be so bad...



It was bad... It was worse than I imagined it would be, which was bad to begin with. The only thing that made it bearable was being there with him. The cameras when we first got there were overwhelming. I'd always gotten there before the cameras in the past, never having to experience this. I smiled up at him as he held my hand tightly, and let me hold onto his arm with my free hand, trying desperately to hide myself from the cameras.

I stayed close to Marc and the guys all night, having no one else really to talk to. I was in this strange limbo. I wasn't working the event, Sara taking over for me for the evening, but I didn't belong with the girlfriends. I really didn't belong with the girlfriends, I sighed as they sent yet another wave of glares my way.

I sat between Max and Kris as Marc went up for his speech, glad I had other people to be around.

Finally Marc took my hand gently and led me out of the ballroom. I smiled gratefully at him as we headed towards his house. Once there I quickly made my way to the couch, collapsing on it and kicking off my heels.

“That wasn't so bad...” I sighed pulling the pins out of my hair, relieving some of the pressure on my scalp. I look over at him as he nodded slowly with a strained expression on his face. “Marc, are you ok? You've been really quiet...” He laughed gently. Honestly it was the laugh that freaked me out. Was he ok? He pulled off his jacket and tie before tossing them on a chair away from me.

“Would you believe me if I said, I can't function with you in that dress?” I knew it! I glanced down quickly seeing my stomach roll protruding. Gross. I pulled a pillow in front of me to hide it. Biting my cheek to keep from crying. And I had gotten my hopes up too...

“That bad?” I spoke under my breath picking at the pillow's fabric, staring at it.

“I've been trying to keep my mind busy so I wouldn't pull it off you actually...” I continued to stare and pick at the pillow as I felt him sit next to me on the couch. He was just trying to make me feel better. He gently pulled the pillow out of my hands and tossed it away from us, causing me to look up at his eyes. My breath caught at the passion I saw in them. My breath released in a happy sigh as he pulled me gently to him, capturing my lips with his own soft pillows. I squealed lightly into the kiss as he wrapped his free arm around me and pulled me forcefully onto his lap. I straddled him the best I could in the confines of my dress; sighing as his hand trailed up the backs of my legs, ending on my thighs. He pulled away from my lips as I groaned in protest before he attacked my neck and collarbone. Oh God! I moaned moving my head away from where he was causing all sorts of sensations I hadn't felt in years.

I felt my heart race as he pulled away slowly. Don't stop! My body screamed as it raged out of control. I sighed softly trying to get my breathing under control as he spun me around so I was sitting on his lap, my face nuzzled into his neck. I was sure he could hear my heart pound out of control as my breathing slowly returned to normal. I could feel him under me as we both tried to distract ourselves from what just happened. Did I want more to happen? I knew I did... But was I ready now? I took a deep breath, breathing in his scent, more musky than usual; that was turning me on more than anything.

I smiled gently as he kissed the top of my head.

“I'm gonna go hop in the shower alright?” He questioned, I nodded against him, not moving, not wanting to move. “I have gym shorts and shirts in my room so... help yourself to anything.” He gently placed me next to him on the couch. “I'll be right back.” He smiled at me before heading upstairs. I sat on the couch for a moment longer. I knew I wanted him. It was obvious he wanted me. But maybe tonight wasn't it. I wanted it to be perfect with guy and I always found sex too soon was never a good thing.

I slowly climbed the stairs to the room I found myself in just days before. I smiled as I saw a drawer left open for me, shorts and t-shirts neatly folded in it. I tried on a pair of shorts over my dress and watched it fall to the floor instantly. Just a shirt it is... I struggled for a moment to grab the top of my zipper, before being able to unzip myself and pull off the dress carefully and laying it on a chair in the corner of the room. I pulled a shirt over my head, sighing gratefully as it grazed my thighs about midway.

I wandered out of the room to find the other bathroom, quickly washing my face before climbing into his plush bed. Oh how I loved his bed. I turned his TV on and began to flip through the channels as he finally came back into the room, draped in only a towel. I held my breath as I watched him more than the TV in front of me. He truly was gorgeous. I glanced towards the phone as it rang next to me, looking back over at him he nodded gently. I picked it up slowly, I'd never answered a boyfriend's phone before.

“Hello?” I didn't hear anything for a few seconds thinking it might be a prank call, a choked sigh finally broke through the silence before a voice followed.

“Abbs...” Max? Why I was Max calling? “Kris...” His voice caught in his throat. “Abbs...” He cleared his throat loudly before continuing. “There... there was an accident.” I dropped the remote and covered my mouth with my hand as my jaw dropped in shock. No... NO! Not Kris... He was becoming a close friend on the team. The only one I felt truly comfortable around, minus Marc. “We... We were driving home.. And... Abbs, it's bad...” He sighed softly.

“Where is he, Max?” I finally managed to squeak out. I shook my head slightly slipping easily into business Aberleigh. I needed to be her if I was going to get this team through this.

“Allegheny Gen.” He sighed before I could hear sobbing break through his thick walls. I jumped off the bed and started gathering up everything I brought with me. None of this was going to work for going to a hospital.

“We're on our way, Max.” I assured him nodding swiftly. “Just hold on.” I hung up the phone swiftly and ran into Marc's bathroom to slide my dress on again, I could go in a t-shirt with no pants. I emerged after a minute and turned to Marc slowly. “Can you zip me?” I asked nervously.

“Abby, what's going on?” I shook my head feeling business Aberleigh slip. “Aberleigh...” He sighed taking two large steps and pulling me into a fierce hug. I broke down on his chest, sobs racking my body. “What's wrong? What did Max say?” He whispered into my hair, rubbing my back gently.

“Kris was in an accident...” I whispered against him. I felt him stiffen so I was sure he heard.

“Is he...?” He let the question trail off as he glance down at me unsure as to what to say.

“I don't know... Max said it was bad. We have to go...” He nodded searching around for a shirt. He grabbed a random one out of the drawer before grabbing my hand and half running down the stairs. I pulled him to a stop at the bottom of the stairs and studied him quietly. “Marc... Maybe you should let me drive.” He had a panicked look in his eyes, like he needed to be there five seconds ago. He shot me a look I couldn't decipher. “We can't do anyone any good if we're in an accident as well.” I soothed, business me was back, I knew I'd stay like this until the problem was over. He stood there for a moment as his face turned contemplative.

“You're right...” He sighed hand me the keys as I slipped on my heels and we hurried out of the door.

Once I had parked the SUV in the parking of Allegheny Hospital we both jumped out and basically ran inside. Marc headed directly for the front desk and asked where his friend was. The nurse having recognized him gave us directions to the ICU and his room number. Marc turned to me, a pained expression on his face, I held my hand out to him. He took it tightly and we walked slowly towards the elevator and into the frenzy that is an ICU unit.

I found Max, TK, Jordan and Sidney sitting in the waiting room. Sidney was pacing the length of the room back and forth, back and forth. Jordan sat perfectly still in one of the small chairs. Under any other circumstances I probably would have chuckled at the sight of such a large man on such a small chair. TK was sitting next to Max. Max... My eyes finally trailed to him, his leg bouncing nervously, I could only see part of his face as he stared straight ahead his hands in fists at his mouth, almost like he was praying. I let go of Marc's hand with a gently squeeze before sitting next to Jordan, directly across from Max.

I looked up at him and my breath caught in my throat. The left side of his face was a mess. A black eye, slowly swelling, and deep red scratches led down his cheek and to his mouth. His left arm was badly bruised and I could see that his left pant leg was pretty ripped up.

“Max...” I asked gently causing him to focus on me. “I need to know what happened...” He sighed gently as I felt Marc sit on the other side of me placing a hand on my knee.

“I was drunk.. So I gave Kris the keys. Kid's like a walking designated driver...” Jordan chuckled next to me, causing a small smile to play on my own lips, not taking my eyes off of Max. “It was pretty quiet.. We left later than a lot of people...” He shrugged, I could see his tears well up in his eyes, but I could also see him struggle with not letting them fall. “There was someone driving drunk... He... He ran a red light...” I heard Marc inhale sharply and squeeze my knee tighter. I turned to look at him and saw the anger and pain seethe out of his eyes.

“Can we go and see him?” I asked gently. Jordan nodded slowly.

“He's in the third door on the right.” He sighed. “Heather and Amanda should be coming back right away.” I nodded and looked over at Marc-Andre.

“Ready...?” He sighed and stood slowly with me as he took my hand again, allowing me to lead him down the hallway. We passed Heather and Amanda in the hall and they both paused to hug both of us. Amazing how bad situations brought people together. Marc paused slightly outside of his room before I lead us both in.

Kris looked so small on the hospital bed. His face battered and covered in dried blood, his left arm in a cast against his side. I took on of the two seats next to his bed. “Why you, Kris...?” I asked the silent room, moving a piece of blood covered hair off of his forehead. He looked so peaceful. Above the scrapes and bruises he looked like a small boy curled in for a nap. I felt Marc sob next to me. As I turned to look at him my heart broke. I pulled him easily into a tight embrace letting him pour out all of his emotions.



Two days later I found myself sitting on the small uncomfortable chair in Kris' room. The boys were in Toronto for a short road trip, and I promised them all I would stay with Kris, in case something happened. He was doing better. Slowly... He was awake more and they had moved him from ICU to just a regular acute care unit. I got work done as he slept and played cards or just talked when he was awake. I looked up from my binder to see him wide awake staring at the door.

“What's wrong, Kris?” My forehead furrowed in concern as I too moved my gaze to the door. There she was again looking gorgeous in just a plain t-shirt and skinny jeans. I looked down at my grubby jeans and Marc's t-shirt and felt out of place.

“What are you doing here?” She spat at me not waiting for my answer before flipping into French and moving to Kris' side. I stood slowly moving to get out of their way.

“Vero, be nice. She's a good girl.” Kris sighed as I shook my head.

“It's ok, Kris... I'll just go get something to eat.” I smiled slightly at him before leaving the room and making my way down to the cafeteria. I just couldn't be in the same room as her right now.

I found a quiet table in a corner and opened my binder in front of me. The press release for Kris was wrapped last night and now I had moved onto the minor hockey league Christmas Camp. The boys always loved this one and I have a great team of kids lined up too. I was so lost in my work I didn't even hear the chair across from me as she sat in it.

“I think we need to talk.” Her soft voice pulled me out of my thoughts and I glanced up at her.

“About?” I sighed closing my binder. I had a funny feeling I wasn't really going to like this conversation.

“The only thing we remotely have in common.” She sneered as she looked me up and down. “Well... for now.”

“Look, Vero...” I started sighing deeply. “I get that you were with Marc but that was a long time ago. We're happy together.”

“If you're so happy together why did he call me a week ago?” I stopped everything I was doing at stared up at her shocked. He called her? “Mmmhmm... Wanted to talk, or so the message said. When Amanda told me about poor Kris, I knew I had to come back. I figured Marc and I would get in our talk.” I shook my head sadly as she grinned victoriously. I couldn't compete with that. I closed my binder gathering everything up to make a quick escape. I didn't... I couldn't... I bit down on my lip to keep from crying. Damn him! Damn him for doing this to me twice! I scraped my chair back to leave before she spoke again. I had made about five steps from the table before she blurted the most awful thing I had ever had to hear. “He did tell you we slept together didn't he?” I turned to look at her slowly. “That day... The day I came over.... Best sex we ever had.” She smiled softly as I turned on my heel and took off as fast as I could out of the hospital doors.



I sat up in my small spare room that I had converted into a library, curled in an overstuffed armchair, staring at a picture Mr. Lemieux had giving me from the banquet. It was of me and Marc, it must have been taken while neither of us noticed. But it was my favourite picture... ever. We had our head bent towards each other, foreheads touching. The connection almost ooze out of the print. We looked like we belonged together.

“Aberleigh...” Braeden's voice came through the door softly. “Please... Come out of there... He's still here...” I sighed as I slid out of my chair and opened the door a crack.

“Tell him I'm not listening anymore.” I sighed moving to close the door again, he stopped me easily. “Braeden... Let the door go. I'm not seeing Max. I'm not seeing Marc, or Sid, or TK, or Jordan or Mario. I quit. I don't have to see them anymore. I go and see Kris when the boys are out of town. I don't want to see them. I'm done.”

“You don't mean that, Abby...” He sighed down at me.

“What's that phrase, Braeden?” He looked at me confused, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” He sighed as he allowed me to close the door on him. I could hear him put his fist and forehead on the door before speaking again.

“I still think you should talk to him, Aberleigh. Marc, I mean.” I stared at the door shocked. Really? Braeden wanted me to talk to Marc? “He's a good guy, Abby. And I think he really likes you.” I held my breath until I could hear footsteps on the stairs and the low rumblings of the two men in the living room.

Now what?

The Only Thing That Works Better Than A Cold Shower...

“Flower’s New Rose

Mere days since Penguins' goaltender, Marc-Andre Fleury's long time girlfriend, Veronique Larosse, left he's been spotted around town with a new woman.
“Who knows what she's really after.” A source close to the Penguins stated. “We all know it's not Marc-Andre.”

“Ouch!” I said as I threw the article back down on the table, “Glad to know that a ‘source close to the Penguins’ doesn’t think I can get a girlfriend by my own merits.”

“This is ri-god-damn-diculous!” Cooke spewed from beside me. “Bull! What kind of gold-digger dates a goalie…?”

“Where do you even come up with those?” I sighed, “and what do you mean…? Goalies are awesome!” I glanced around the table; everyone was avoiding my gaze. “Oh, come on! I’m the only person at this table that plays the whole damn game!”

Jordan started to laugh, “Dude you stay in the same foot of ice… spinning like a ballerina” I let out a disgruntled groan as they erupted into laugher; they’d never let me live that down…

The phone rang, giving me an excuse to leave the table. I picked up the receiver, hoping to hear Abby’s voice.

“Marc-Andre! How could you?!” A woman scolded through the phone.

I let out a sigh and turned my back to the boys. “Hi Mom.”

“A girlfriend!? A girlfriend, already? How could you not tell your mother!?”

“Listen, listen! I just made it official the other day, alright? I was going to tell you… I’ve just been busy… I’m sorry.”

I heard her exhale loudly. “Well, your sister is very upset that she had to find out on the internet… I hope we get to meet her. Christmas?”

I gulped audibly, Christmas? “Mom… it‘s a little early for that…” I groaned and put my hand over my face, there’s no point arguing with her, I said silently. “I’ll ask her today, ok?”

“That’s what I want to hear… Marylene wants to talk to you.” I groaned as I heard her calling my little sister. I glanced over at the clock; it was almost noon.

I put my hand over the receiver, “Guys, I gotta go after this… I’m meeting Abby for lunch so… either get out not or lock up before you leave.” Staalsy, Cooke and TK looked at each other; nodding as they heading into my living room - turning on the Xbox.

“Marc!” She squealed loudly into the phone. “We need to talk…” She sounded serious, I tried not to laugh; I could only imagine what this was. “You need to get back together with Vero… I was going to be a bridesmaid!”

That’s not what I was expecting at all. “Umm… Marylene, that’s not going to happen. I have a girlfriend now, and Vero… she’s got someone too.”

“What? What are you talking about?!” She snapped, sounding angry and confused. “Vero doesn’t have a boyfriend…”

“Yes she does, she probably just doesn’t want to-”

“No. She doesn’t Marc. I see her everyday, she’s been hiding in her house since she got home. She’s miserable.”

“But… that’s not… she-” She told me that she had a boyfriend… that’s why she had come over...

Mary answered my question for me. “She told you that she had a boyfriend because she walked in on your new girlfriend… she was trying to hide how upset she was.”

“Look Mary, I gotta get going… I’ll give you a call later, alright?”

“Fine. Bye.”

She hung up, completely put out. Of course I was the bad guy in this situation. Vero had been like the sister Mary never got to have; they use to do everything together back home, and when we left for Pittsburgh - they talked almost everyday.
It didn’t matter that she had left me, or that she was the one who lied about having a boyfriend.

So what now? I was confused, a little annoyed, surprised. It still didn’t make sense to me that Vero would show up here and then lie about having a boyfriend; even if she saw Abby. Why?
If she wanted me back and was trying to make me jealous… it was almost ironic. The main reason I felt different about her, was thinking that she belonged to someone else. I wonder if I would have chased after her if I had of known the truth…
I stopped that thought right in it’s tracks… either way it doesn’t matter. I smiled as I thought of Abby; how things had turned out - for the best, I was honestly starting to believe.

Still, I wanted to know. I checked the clock; still lots of time, and grabbed the phone again. “Hey Vero, it’s Marc. I was just talking to Marylene and she said that you don’t have a boyfriend… I… I don’t care or anything, I just wanted to know... if you’re you ok?” I let out a sigh, trying to figure out what to say. “Look, just give me a call…”



I heard Abby, before I could see her. “Marc, my mother's not giving...” I walked through her office door, to find her staring out the window. “Marc, you don't have to say yes, but will you please save me from my family and come home with me for Thanksgiving?” She let out a sigh, sounding worried.

“What if I want to say yes?” I chuckled as she jumped in her seat. She turned around and flashed me that grin, the one that I loved so much. Her eyes left my face and fell upon the paper bag and bouquet of roses in my hands; raising her eyebrows. “The last flower didn't really work out. I thought I'd try again.” I beamed as I watched another smile break out over her perfect lips. She got up quickly and swept across the room towards me, tip-toeing up to give me a kiss.
I let out a sigh as I chucked my purchases onto her desk; lifting her off the ground once my hands were free. Kissing her is probably the best way to spend a day… I thought as let my tongue drag over her cherry flavoured lips. Deciding that was my new course of action, I pulled her closer to me; feeling my body respond accordingly.
“Seriously you guys… get a room…” Max quipped from the door; I didn’t bother acknowledging him. “Geesh! My poor virgin eyes…“ He sighed after another minute, causing me to finally break away.

I turned around to see him grinning; I let out a snort; “Right, because we might do something to corrupt poor little Maxime.” He shrugged in response, his smile growing. “So, are you here for a reason?”

“Nope, just coming up to say hi… good thing too… I’d hate to think of what would have happened if I got here any later. Someone has to watch out for this girls virtue.” He nodded at Abby, causing her to blush.

“Ok… I’m sorry to eavesdrop, but did Max Talbot just say he’s watching out for someone’s virtue?” Mario appeared behind Max, looking sceptical.

“Oh ouch! What, you think I’m not like that?” He asked, feigning hurt. Mario shrugged and continued down the hallway, Max following suit. I listened to them laugh together until they were too far away to hear anymore.
I turned my attention back to Abby.

“Is he always like that? Appearing everywhere?” She sat back down at her desk, giving me a flirtatious grin.

“No actually… apparently it’s a new habit that he’s picked up. Let’s hope it doesn’t last.” I licked my lips and bent down to kiss her again. Her stomach let out a growl and I backed off, laughing slightly. “One interruption after another…” I sighed, grabbing the brown bag and pulling out some Chinese food.

I dug in, realizing just how hungry I was. “So what’s this about Thanksgiving?”

“Oh…” Abby said, poking at her food with a chop stick. “My mom saw… that article about us.” I laughed, needing no further explanation.

“Sounds like my Mom… who’s hoping to meet you… during Christmas?” I grimaced as I waited for her reaction. She let out a small laugh.

“Looks like our parents are already into this relationship.” I nodding in agreement and relief. We sat in silence as we ate; or as I ate and Abby played with her food. Wow, she’s really nervous about this… or maybe it was the article. I thought to myself as I watched her.

“Hey Abby, you’re not upset about… the article are you?”

“What?” She looked up at me. “Oh… no! Are you?”

I shrugged. “I wish you didn’t have to deal with it but… I’m not upset no… How could I be upset when my girlfriend‘s a fox?”

She started to laugh and shake her head, “A fox, am I?” I nodded enthusiastically, causing her to laugh some more.

Might as well… at least she’s in a good mood. “Umm… so I know that you’re really busy getting ready for this banquet but… do you think you’ll have time to go to it?” I bit my lip as she looked up at me.

“Oh… I really don’t know…” I gave her my best puppy-dog-face. “Marc, I’m not sure that that’s a good idea?”

“Why not.” I finished off my lunch, tossing it into the garbage.

She sighed and threw her’s in too; still full. “I don’t think the other girlfriends like me too much…” She looked down at her lap, like she was ashamed by this.

“Well… I don’t know about that, I haven’t heard anything. Besides, I don’t like them very much!” I saw a smile dance at the corner of her lip, so I pressed on. “You’ll be with me anyway… please babe.” She looked up at me, surprised. Ugh, ’babe’… oops. To my surprise she smiled.

“I guess I could go… for a bit.” I grinned and pulled her face towards me, kissing her gently; for once, extremely excited about a formal function.
Then again, I’d get excited over anything if I got to take Abby with me…



I knocked on the door, terrified. I already knew that her brother hated me because of what had happened before; in his eyes I was the guy that made his sister cry.
I thought about Marylene and sighed, If roles were reversed; I’d hate me too.

The tall, tanned guy - that I had seen once before, at the rink - pulled the door open and shot me a dirty look. “Hi… I’m Marc-Andre. We spoke on the phone before…”
He nodded curtly before moving aside, to let me in.

Abby was just coming down the stairs when I looked up; feeling my jaw drop. She looked beautiful - no, not beautiful; stunning, magnificent, perfect. She came to a stop at the foot of the stairs and I couldn’t stop my eyes from roaming down her body.
The shape of the red dress as it caressed ever part of her, caused me to bit on my lip.
Her hair was pulled back and curled; hanging loosely down her back. It took all my willpower not to reach out and wrap my fingers in it. I pulled my eyes back up towards her face and those lips.
God, I want to kiss her… I swallowed and tried to find something nice to say, but I couldn’t remember what words were.

She turned slightly to say something to her brother and I found my eyes wandering back down.
If her brother wasn’t here… I sighed, feeling my blood rush south. I need to get that dress off her, hold her, touch her, taste her-. As she turned back and began to move towards me again, I exhaled loudly.

“Ready to go?” She asked, shyly; probably worried about the fact that I was frothing at the mouth. I nodded, still too caught up in her to try and throw a coherent sentence out.
She reached out for my hand and I lead her to my SUV; not caring at all the her brother was shooting dagger at me with his eyes.


I was pretty sure that I was the luckiest man in the world. Ex-that… 100% sure. I could tell that Aberleigh was slightly uncomfortable with the attention and cameras on here; after-all she spent all her time behind them, trying to make people like me look good.
She clutched onto my arm like she was clinging on to life itself; which I didn’t mind. Especially not after seeing all the looks she was getting from the male population of the room - my team-mates included.

Finally pulling myself together enough to look away from Abby for more than a second; I saw what she meant about the girlfriends. Normally, I didn’t have to associate with them. At events like this, Vero would go over and sit with them, leaving me free to hang with the guys.
As Abby wasn’t comfortable with them, she stayed with me; and I could feel their judgemental glares across the room.

I said my part at the mic, chatted with the guys and posed for some pictures; deciding that we had stayed long enough. Aberleigh was putting on a brave front for me, but I could tell she was ready to leave; any time I caught sight of her, I was ready to leave too.


“Well, that wasn’t so bad…” Abby sighed as she flopped down on my couch; kicking off her heels. I nodded slowly, watching her as she undid the clips at the back of her head; allowing her hair to fall free. “Marc, is everything ok? You’ve been really quiet.”

I started to laugh as I undid my tie and jacket; discarding both. “Would you believe me if I said, I can’t function with you in that dress?” She looked down at her body, pulling a pillow across her stomach.

“That bad?” She mumbled, not meeting my gaze.

“I’ve been trying to keep my mind busy so I wouldn’t pull it off you actually…” I walked towards her slowly, taking a seat beside her on the couch. She looked up at me as I pulled the pillow out of her arms; tossing it on the floor. I reached out and wrapped my hand around the back of her neck. I pulled her to me gently, indulging in the feeling of her lips as they tenderly brushed mine.
I wrapped my loose arm around her, pulling her to me more forcefully; her leg working its way across my lap; until she was startling me.
I moaned as I ran my hands up her legs; sculpting my palm against every part as I reached her thigh.
I pulled my face away from her lips and started moving down her throat, and past her collarbone.

I took a deep breath and pulled back; feeling my blood pounding through every part of my body. I had to stop now; if it went any further, I knew I wouldn’t be able to.
I scooped her around until she was sitting on my lap; her face nuzzled into my neck. I kissed the top of her head and held her to me.

I hope she understood. She was sitting on my lap, so I knew she could obviously feel that I was ready for the next step; but we had never discussed that, and I didn’t want to do something wrong.
I looked down at her again; a direct view of cleavage below me - cold shower it is…

“I’m gonna go hop in the shower alright?” I felt her nod against me. “I have gym short and shirts in my room so… help yourself to anything. I’ll be right back.” I moved her onto the couch and headed upstairs.


The cold shower didn’t do as much as I had hoped, and I was still painfully aware of her presence in the next room when I climbed out.
She was curled up on my bed in a shirt; flipping through the channels. The phone rang beside her and I nodded for her to answer, while I fished for some clothes.

“Hello?” She asked as I found the sweatpants I was looking for. When she said nothing else I turned around to see what was happening; the look on her face caused my heart to skip a beat; finishing what the cold shower couldn't.
I pulled on the sweats, underneath my towel before I crawled onto the bed.

“Babe, what’s wrong?” I asked softly, as I came up beside her. She continued to stare at me as her hand reached up to cover her mouth.

What do You do with Perfection?

Aberleigh-

“Listen, Abby, that's not the only reason I brought you down here...” I held my breath and tensed, waiting for his crushing blow. He didn't want to see me again. I'm sure of it. I knew he was too good to be true. Braeden's going to laugh so hard at this. He's always wanted to be right. “I was uh...” I could barely will myself to look at him. Just spit it out! Break my heart already! “Ok, I guess... I want to do thinks right by you... and I know it might seem soon but; I was wondering if we could make things official...?” I let go of the breath I was holding. Was he joking?

“Like... be your girlfriend?” I was.... um... lost. That was the last thing I expected to come out of his mouth. But it's a good thing. I thought as a smile slowly began to play on my lips. I caught his eye before nodding enthusiastically at him. I squealed in shock as he instantly dropped my hands and pulled me into an intensely passionate kiss.

“Aw! Flower's got a girlfriend!” My eyes snapped open as Max's voice destroyed my happy place. Oh God... He did not just hear that... I peeked around Marc who was staring at the entire team in shock. Oh God! “Sorry man, it was too perfect to pass up.” I felt Marc sigh as he looked down at me. I wanted to crawl under the nearest rock.

“Sorry, I didn't know-” He whispered, his eyes leaving mine again to look at the new figure that entered. “Mario?!” Shit! What else could go wrong today?!

“What I hate being out of the loop.” He chuckled as I buried my face into Marc's chest, wishing I could just disappear. This was not going to be good. “Alright guys, clear out... we've got a game to win. You too loverboy. Miss Michaels, I know there's some paper work I need you to finish. But if you'd like, feel free to bring it to the Owner's box; Marc seems to play better when you're watching.”

“Oh my God...” I moaned against him. This was not happening. My life was not happening right now. I looked up at Marc as he apologized, sort of... “It's fine, it's not your fault... I just wish- well, I wish that had been more private.” I sighed gently and tried to smile up at him which he returned, tightening his hold on me.

“When you're friends with Max, nothing's private. I have to get going but... I'll see you out there hopefully...” He glanced down at me with the anticipation of a five year old on his first day of school blazing in his eyes. I grinned and nodded, stealing one last kiss before turning back to my office.

Sitting in the Owner's box was much more productive to my work than sitting in the stands. However I still didn't feel comfortable. I glanced around me during a stoppage of play to see Mr and Mrs Lemieux off to one sigh, their heads bowed close to the other whispering softly. Every once in a while I could feel them look over at me, before turning back to the ice.

I sighed loudly moving words around, and changing sentences. Fixing errors and writing reports, that's my world. With the banquet coming up in less than three weeks it was imparative that all of this was done by the middle of next week. And there was a year's worth of work left.

“Good game, non?” I jumped as a deep, soft voice settled in next to me. I glanced to my left as saw Kris, out with a mild ankle sprain, take an empty seat.

“I'm not sure...” I answered honestly. “I've been a bit busy tonight...” We chuckled lightly as I motioned towards my binder.

“He's standing on his head for you tonight.” He motioned down towards the net as Marc turned his face towards the box, causing my breath to catch in my throat.

“I don't know what you're talking about, Kris.” I brushed off the comment as I went back to my papers. Papers are so much safer than feelings.

“He hasn't done that for anyone since juniors.” I finally closed my binder, if he wanted to talk Marc, I'd bite. He wasn't going to let me work anyways.

“And then he played for her...” I smiled awkwardly at him. “I get it Kris... I'm the other woman. It doesn't make it any easier...” He sighed and watched the game for a moment, in silence.

“No... You don't. The girls don't like you because they don't like new comers.”

“They like Dani.” I countered, as Kris raised his finger to stop me.

“They think Dani is temporary. Max doesn't tend to keep women long.” He shrugged lightly. “You're a good woman, Aberleigh. But they're not used to someone like you. Vero didn't work. She did things with the ladies association. That's it. It kept her busy... But what I'm saying is, they aren't used to having someone place their career above the game.” He nodded back down to Marc as he took a drink. “Besides... He likes you. Who cares?” I stared at the man beside me for a moment before enveloping him in a hug.

“You're a good man, Kris Letang.” I whispered to him. “Thank you.” He blushed softly before letting me go back to my mountains of work, watching the game in silence next to me.

I rushed down to the press room directly after the game; half to supervise, half to be near Marc. I stood in the corner of the room, studied a few pages in the dreaded binder I hoped to wrap up tonight, and glanced at the fifty others that needed to be started tonight. I glanced up at the table and caught Marc looking at me, not paying any attention to what was going on. That's when I heard the question.

“Marc-Andre, what are you crediting your great performance to tonight?” The blood rushed from my face as my brow furrowed in concern. Marc turned back shortly after with a quick 'what?' Ooh... I needed to talk to him about that... I grimaced and bit the inside of my cheek gently as the reporter repeated the question.

“Ummm... just having great people around me.” I blushed deeply as he turned back to me. Don't notice, don't notice! I breathed a sigh of relief as they turned their attention over to Sidney.

“So... home?” Marc questioned as he led me slowly down the hallway. Home? When did we jump to home? “I mean... my house...” He tried to cover the flub up easily. I smiled brightly and opened my mouth to agree before I was very rudely interrupted.

“Oh no!” Max's voice flooded my ear as he successfully broke Marc and I away from each by placing us on either side of him. “Out tonight buddy... We're going to Diesel. We're taking your car too... Hey Geno! Jordan! Let's go!” I laughed under my breath at Marc-Andre's soft grunt and spotted Dani a little further up. I stole away from Max and ran up to her quickly.

“Did you want to take my car, Dani? I know Max is looking for a DD and this way I can drive you home after as well.” I whispered trying to reason Max out to her. “Besides... I'm sure Kris would ride with you.” I watched over her shoulder as Kris approached slowly. “Need a ride, Kris? Danielle has an extra seat...” She glared at me before taking my keys and sliding into the driver's side. Kris smiled shyly before climbing into the other side.

“Playing matchmaker?” Marc-Andre's voice, combined with his breath on the back of my neck, caused me to involuntarily shiver. “Isn't she with Max?” I turned and looked at him with a raised brow. As if to say Ok, then why is Max in your car. “Okay okay... I give... Max is an ass.” He laughed escorting me back to the SUV.

I smiled gently to myself as we pulled up to Diesel just in time to see Kris lead Dani into the club. His hand protectively placed on the small of her back. Sweet success!

Marc wrapped his arm around my shoulder as we walked in together, Max literally bouncing behind us.

The club was packed, but that's often the best way, as we climbed the stairs to the VIP section. Marc pulled me to a couch before plopping down.

“Do you want a drink?” He spoke directly in my ear to be heard without yelling.

“Just a water,” I responded, smiling easily at him. Danielle and Kris came up and sat on the couch next to ours, drinks in hand.

“Aren't you starving?” She yelled over at me. I clenched my stomach to ensure no growl would escape. Of course I was hungry. I had an apple for lunch at two. But I was strong. It was a controlled feeling.

“Nah... I'm fine.” I grinned waving her worried look away as Marc came back with my water and his own beer. I sat comfortably under his arm as he spoke with Sidney and Kris about the game, and the up coming one against Philly on Friday. I never understood the rivalry that developed between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. I mean... really? Is it that serious? I chuckled softly to myself and shook my head.

“What's funny?” Marc looked over at me.

“You boys... Hockey, hockey, hockey. Relax. Hockey isn't right here. Leave your jobs at the rink.” All three of them stared at me shocked. “I mean... Look at me. I have tonnes to do for the banquet but I purposely left the work in the car. Because a bar is a no work zone. Right, Danielle?” No work zones were certain areas Danielle came up with to make sure I put the red pen down at times.

“Yup,” She grinned as Kris turned to watch her. “Bars, spas, hair dressers, and restaurants.” We laughed with each other softly as All I See by Kylie Minogue started to ooze through the speakers. Danielle laughed out right, knowing my feelings to this song, as I turned to Marc-Andre slowly.

“Dance with me…” I whispered into his ear feeling him stiffen slightly, whether it was because of me or the fear of dancing, I didn’t care. I wasn’t taking no for an answer. “Please...?” I breathed at him as he nodded slowly. yes!

I jumped up off the couch and held out my hand which he reluctantly took and stood next to me. I danced down the stairs as we made our way to the crowded dance floor. Finally finding a good dance spot I began to dance against him slowly.

“Boy you knock me out…” I sung softly along with the song as I turned around in his arms to face him. “My baby. Doesn’t matter what’s going on or who’s around us all I see is you.” He grinned pulling me even closer to him, turning our dance into nothing more than a simple grind. But honestly… with this guy… I was ok with that.

I became lost in thoughts and time as he lowered his mouth to my own. No brain! Don’t shut down… I still… ah fuck it. I sighed giving in completely to the sensation of the kiss, giving up completely on dancing. Like always our kiss was rudely interrupted as Max danced a skanky blond woman up to us.

“Nice, Flower… way to make every single man in the room jealous.” I furrowed my brow at him as the blond giggled. Max raised her arm to allow her to spin under it, causing her shirt to rise. Was that… A Penguins’ logo? TATTOO?? Oh Max… I looked up at Marc to gage his reaction to Max and the blond. He blushed deeply, looking down at me.

“I guess I’m a pretty lucky guy…” He shrugged causing my own blush to creep onto my cheeks.

“What a pair!” Max guffawed as he twirled his girl away from us.

“Want to head back upstairs?” He whispered at me and I nodded mutely; my brain was barely functioning. I didn’t want to think about how much work it would take to form audible words. He took my hand gently and led me up the stairs, past the couch that Kris, Dani, and Sid took up and into our own private space. “I thought we could use a little privacy.” He smiled as I sat on the couch and pulled him down with me before pulling him into another kiss.

We spent pretty much the rest of the night there, together in our own little world. It was comfortable, quiet… perfect.

“Marc…” Sid’s voice broke into our reverie as we spoke softly to each other about everything… and nothing all at the same time. “We’re taking off. C’mon, man.”

“I should probably go home too. Make sure Danielle makes it home alive.” I smiled sadly as I glanced over at her as she giggled hysterically at something Kris had just said. Oh god… she was drunk.

“Will I get to see you tomorrow?” He asked nuzzling into my neck. I giggled softly.

“If you come and find me. I have to get this work done. I still have two or three hours tonight to do.” I shrugged slightly in apology, he nodded in understanding.

“I’ll bring lunch. Your office… one-ish?” I laughed as I glanced towards him. He looked so serious.

“One-ish it is.” We gathered everyone up and headed out of the bar. I helped Danielle to my car slowly so she wouldn’t go tumbling to the ground.

The next morning I sat comfortably at my desk going through the daily papers. Oh the joys of my jobs. Dirt searching... I opened one of the trashier locals and almost died as plastered on page two was a large picture of Marc and me “dancing” from last night.

“Flower's New Rose.” I read the headline out loud. Scared to start reading the article, I moved my attention to the picture. It was a great picture of Marc, his face tilted down towards mine, his eyes shining brightly as his arms, his gorgeous arms, held me tightly. I groaned at my picture. My hair was lying flat over my shoulders, my skin looked horrible and my goodness, I was huge! I took a quick look at the bagel I bought for breakfast and tossed it in the garbage. No more carbs.

I took a deep breath before starting to read the article.

Mere days since Penguins' goaltender, Marc-Andre Fleury's long time girlfriend, Veronique Larosse, left he's been spotted around town with a new woman.
“Who knows what she's really after.” A source close to the Penguins stated. “We all know it's not Marc-Andre.”

Oh God... I was going to be sick. I... just... throw it out! I can't.... I have to respond to it. As a senior Public Relations representative I have to respond. I groaned unable, or unwilling, to continue reading. I quickly answered my cell phone as it began to ring. “Hello?”

“Second page ain't bad, Sis.” Braeden... great.

“Gee thanks, Brae. That was my whole plan. To get my face plastered all over the papers.”

“Well, it worked!” Ass. “Anyways, you should probably prepare him to meet Mum. She just called here. Thanksgiving's coming up soon.”

“Thanks...” I sighed, barely hanging up with him before it rang again. “Hi, Mum.”

“Aberleigh Kay Michaels.” My mother's voice flooded my head. “How could you not tell me?!”

“Mum, I haven't spoken to you since Easter. Besides, we officially started dating yesterday. And I'm swamped here. I haven't had time.” I sighed as she gave a watery moan like sound.

“Fine.” She cried. “I guess I'll just have to wait until November.” Uhoh... Here it comes. “You are bringing him to Thanksgiving aren't you?”

“Mum!” I whined. “Can I ask him first? Maybe the team's doing something.”

“Ask him, Aberleigh. But I expect you both there.” She stated her tone holding a certain amount of finality in it. I moved to assure her I would ask, but the line was dead. Crap.

I fretted around the office all morning. Getting little to nothing done. How was going to ask him to come home with me for Thanksgiving? I mean... we've been dating for one day. One day!

“Marc, my mother's not giving...” I sighed deeply. That won't work. “Marc, you don't have to say yes, but will you please save me from my family and come home with me for Thanksgiving?” I asked the window.

“What if I want to say yes?” I jumped as I heard his voice behind me. I spun around quickly to find him grinning at me from the doorway with a bag of take out in one hand and roses in the other. I quirked a quick eyebrow at him. “The last flowers didn't really work out. I thought I'd try again.” I smile crept across my lips as I quickly strode to him, kissing him gently. I swear, this guy is perfect!