#Canadian Fast Food

[masoncarr2244]

[musicalselaw]

who was going to tell me Boston Pizza is Canadian? I feel like my whole life is a lie. I always thought it was an American restaurant that just happened to be in Canada as well like many others. not that it was Canadian and Americans had no clue what it was. Does no one else get to have bugs and cheese? which has been my go to there ever since i was a kid or the mints that are there after?

[oldshowbiz]

The short-lived SCTV Diner operated for exactly one year - September 1981 until September 1982.

[pumpkabitch]

Just got New York Fries and they have new cups! All paper, all compostable. It's really cool!

[notveryshrugemoji]

canadian a&w has a root beer slurpee AND they’ll make it a rootbeer float if you ask.

[jakeperalta]

As a Canadian who was been to a tim hortons in the UK, it was such a surreal experience because it had so many things the tims here doesn’t (like burgers and hot dogs) it was like walking into an alternate universe.

The little donut balls (timbits) were still good in the UK (but like twice the price - four pounds for 10 when they’re like under 2 pounds for 10 if I convert the money and the coffee should only be like a pound there). But I’m glad you liked it!!!

ohh that's weird! i guess they had to compete with the other fast food places here. yeah the timbits were like 55p each :/ since i am now a convert i think next time i go into the office i'll get breakfast because i saw the breakfast deal is £3.49 which is a lot more reasonable!!

[coulsonlives]

If any of y'all ever come to Canada, please do yourself a favour and eat at A&W. Seek it out.

No this is not a joke. I'm 100% serious.

[paddysnuffles]

A&W Debuts Pup Patty Supporting Service Dogs Across Canada

[sofiaalice]

What Makes Fast-Food Successful?

Introduction

Fast-food has become an integral part of modern society. But what exactly makes it so successful? To understand this, we need to delve into the various factors that contribute to the booming fast-food industry. From convenience and affordability to brand recognition and innovation, let's explore the elements that make fast-food a global phenomenon.

Convenience

One of the primary reasons fast-food is so popular is convenience. Fast-food restaurants are strategically located in high-traffic areas such as busy streets, shopping centers, and near workplaces. This makes them easily accessible to people on the go.

Location Accessibility

Fast-food outlets are almost everywhere. Whether you're driving through a city or taking a break on a highway, there's likely a fast-food restaurant nearby. This accessibility plays a crucial role in attracting customers who are looking for a quick meal without the hassle of preparing it themselves.

Quick Service

Time is precious, and fast-food chains capitalize on this by offering speedy service. The concept of 'fast-food' itself hinges on the ability to serve customers within minutes. Drive-thrus, mobile ordering, and efficient kitchen operations ensure that customers receive their meals promptly.

Affordability

Affordability is another key factor in the success of fast-food. These restaurants offer meals at prices that are accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Pricing Strategies

Fast-food chains use various pricing strategies to attract customers. From dollar menus to combo deals, they ensure that there is something for everyone. This makes fast-food an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.

Value Meals and Promotions

Value meals and promotions are a staple in the fast-food industry. Offering bundled meals at a discounted price or introducing limited-time offers keeps customers coming back for more. These promotions not only boost sales but also enhance customer loyalty.

Consistent Quality

Consistency is crucial in maintaining customer trust and loyalty. Fast-food chains achieve this through standardized recipes and stringent quality control measures.

Standardized Recipes

No matter where you are in the world, a burger from a well-known fast-food chain will taste the same. This consistency is achieved through standardized recipes and cooking procedures, ensuring that customers know exactly what to expect with each visit.

Quality Control Mechanisms

To maintain consistent quality, fast-food chains implement rigorous quality control mechanisms. Regular audits, staff training, and adherence to health and safety standards ensure that the food served meets the brand's expectations.

Brand Recognition

A strong brand identity helps fast-food chains stand out in a crowded market. Logos, slogans, and effective advertising play a significant role in this.

Importance of Logos and Slogans

A recognizable logo and catchy slogan can make a huge difference. Think of the golden arches of McDonald's or the "Have it your way" slogan of Burger King. These elements create a lasting impression and make the brand easily identifiable.

Advertising and Marketing Campaigns

From television commercials to social media ads, fast-food chains invest heavily in advertising. Effective marketing campaigns highlight the brand's unique selling points, attract new customers, and retain existing ones.

Menu Variety

Offering a diverse menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, which is essential for attracting and retaining customers.

Diverse Offerings to Cater to Different Tastes

Fast-food chains offer a variety of items to cater to different preferences. From burgers and fries to salads and smoothies, there's something for everyone. This variety ensures that customers can find something they like, no matter their taste or dietary restrictions.

Seasonal and Limited-Time Items

Introducing seasonal and limited-time items keeps the menu exciting and encourages repeat visits. These items create a sense of urgency, prompting customers to try them before they're gone.

Innovation

Innovation is key to staying relevant in the fast-food industry. Technological advancements and new product development are at the forefront of this innovation.

Technological Advancements

From self-service kiosks to mobile apps for ordering and delivery, technology has transformed the fast-food experience. These advancements enhance convenience and streamline operations, making it easier for customers to get their food quickly and efficiently.

New Product Development

Innovation isn't limited to technology; it also extends to the menu. Fast-food chains regularly introduce new items to keep the menu fresh and exciting. These new products cater to evolving customer preferences and keep the brand relevant.

Customer Experience

A positive customer experience is essential for building loyalty and encouraging repeat business.

Service Quality

Friendly and efficient service is a hallmark of successful fast-food chains. Staff training programs ensure that employees are knowledgeable, courteous, and able to provide a pleasant dining experience.

Cleanliness and Ambiance

Cleanliness and a welcoming ambiance are crucial for attracting customers. Fast-food restaurants prioritize maintaining clean and comfortable environments, making them appealing places to dine.

Adaptability

The ability to adapt to changing trends and customer preferences is vital for long-term success in the fast-food industry.

Response to Dietary Trends and Preferences

Fast-food chains are increasingly catering to dietary trends and preferences. Whether it's offering vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, these adaptations ensure that the menu appeals to a broader audience.

Incorporation of Health-Conscious Options

With growing awareness of health and nutrition, many fast-food chains are incorporating healthier options into their menus. Offering salads, fruit, and other nutritious choices caters to health-conscious customers and helps improve the brand's image.

Fast Food Boxes

Custom Fast food boxes in Canada play a crucial role in the overall success of fast-food chains. These boxes are designed not only for practicality but also for branding and marketing purposes. They provide an easy and efficient way to package and transport food, ensuring that it stays fresh and intact until it reaches the customer. Moreover, the design and branding on these boxes serve as mobile advertisements, reinforcing brand recognition and appeal. Innovative packaging solutions, such as eco-friendly materials and creative designs, also enhance the customer experience and align with the growing trend of sustainability, making them an essential component in the fast-food industry.

Global Expansion

Expanding into international markets is a significant growth strategy for fast-food chains.

Strategies for International Markets

Successful global expansion involves adapting to local tastes and preferences. Fast-food chains modify their menus and marketing strategies to suit the cultural and culinary norms of each region they enter.

Localization of Menus

Localization goes beyond just offering regional specialties. It involves understanding local dietary restrictions, preferences, and even food presentation styles. This cultural sensitivity helps fast-food chains resonate with international customers.

Franchising Model

The franchising model has been instrumental in the rapid growth of fast-food chains worldwide.

Benefits for Business Owners

Franchising allows entrepreneurs to own and operate their fast-food outlets while benefiting from the established brand and support system. This model reduces the risk associated with starting a new business and provides a proven framework for success.

Expansion Through Franchises

Franchising enables fast-food chains to expand rapidly without bearing the full financial burden of opening new locations. Franchisees invest their own capital, which fuels the brand's growth and market penetration.

Marketing and Advertising

Effective marketing and advertising are crucial for attracting and retaining customers in the fast-food industry.

Traditional and Digital Advertising

Fast-food chains utilize a mix of traditional and digital advertising to reach a broad audience. Television commercials, billboards, and print ads complement digital campaigns on social media, search engines, and mobile apps.

Social Media Presence

A strong social media presence allows fast-food chains to engage with customers, promote new products, and create buzz around limited-time offers. Social media platforms provide a direct line of communication with customers, fostering loyalty and brand advocacy.

Cultural Influence

Fast-food has become deeply embedded in popular culture, influencing and being influenced by societal trends.

Impact on Popular Culture

Fast-food chains often feature in movies, TV shows, and music, cementing their place in popular culture. This cultural presence enhances brand recognition and makes fast-food a familiar part of daily life.

Integration into Daily Life

For many people, fast-food is more than just a meal; it's a part of their routine. Whether it's a quick breakfast on the way to work or a late-night snack, fast-food fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles.

Supply Chain Efficiency

Efficient supply chain management is essential for maintaining product quality and controlling costs in the fast-food industry.

Sourcing and Logistics

Fast-food chains invest in efficient sourcing and logistics to ensure a steady supply of ingredients. This involves partnering with reliable suppliers and optimizing transportation networks to minimize delays and maintain freshness.

Cost Management

Controlling costs is crucial for maintaining profitability in the competitive fast-food market. Efficient supply chain practices help minimize waste, reduce expenses, and ensure that customers receive high-quality food at affordable prices.

Conclusion

The success of fast-food chains can be attributed to a combination of convenience, affordability, consistent quality, brand recognition, and adaptability. By continuously innovating and responding to customer preferences, fast-food chains have managed to remain relevant and popular across the globe. As they continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how they navigate future challenges and opportunities in the industry.

FAQs

1. Why is fast-food so popular? Fast-food is popular due to its convenience, affordability, and quick service. Its widespread availability and consistent quality also contribute to its appeal.

2. How do fast-food chains maintain consistency? Fast-food chains maintain consistency through standardized recipes, rigorous quality control mechanisms, and regular staff training.

3. What role does technology play in fast-food success? Technology enhances convenience and efficiency in fast-food operations. Innovations like self-service kiosks, mobile ordering, and delivery apps streamline the customer experience.

4. Are fast-food chains adapting to health trends? Yes, many fast-food chains are incorporating health-conscious options into their menus, such as salads, fruit, and low-calorie meals, to cater to changing dietary preferences.

5. What are some successful fast-food marketing strategies? Successful fast-food marketing strategies include traditional and digital advertising, a strong social media presence, effective branding, and engaging promotional campaigns.

[quackle]

you see, i don't look at these two in like a romantic ship sort of way, but i do see them in a coworker ship sort of way. if that makes any sense. destined to work the same job that pays like $10 an hour to pay off a ridiculously high loan while hating each other immensely. but they'll sneak fries from the back and talk shit about customers and kinda vent to one another about their lives or their parents every other day too, because what else can you do there besides your job? duality of coworkership <3

once upon a time, i had a fic idea where chris told nichelle and ripper that they owed the show a million dollars because they both quit in the second season. ripper did not have a million dollars to pay upfront and went to go find a job. then nichelle went to pay her portion with ease (because duh she had the money to do that), but her mom and her agent both agreed that she should actually work an actual entry-level job for the money instead to improve her image to the public eye because it's definitely dwindled after her whole hollywood-star-crisis. and so nichelle was forced to work at some random ass canadian fast food restaurant that just so happened to be the same random ass canadian fast food restaurant ripper just got hired at. and even when they tried to avoid each other, they got stuck working the same shifts because their manager wanted to reel in more customers with that good ol' two-for-one reality tv star rep. and quite literally anything bad that could have happened at this random ass canadian fast food restaurant, happened. but now i'm much too lazy to do write this in fic format. idk. *explodes*

[heroesriseandfall]

No, see, because Dick is the funniest result of being raised by Bruce and Alfred in that he can cook (like Alfred can) but he chooses to eat weird fast food and takeout on purpose (like Bruce does only because he can’t cook).

Thus, we get comics where Dick will cook an actual, quality meal for a hungry sibling but then his apartment is full of pizza boxes in weird flavors and he once ate abandoned popcorn from an empty sports stadium.

I’m also 98% sure that it’s Dick’s fault that Tim’s favorite type of pizza is Canadian bacon and artichoke hearts. But if Tim wants then Dick will hand him a thermos of warm home made soup. Older brother who can meet any of your food needs!

[masoncarr2244]

[teaboot]

whats it like being canadian? im american so i have no idea.

Fewer flags, more French, potatoes taste different, there aren't as many fast food chains, and people seem to laugh at us when we travel overseas for reasons that aren't entirely clear

[christyrdiaz]

Best Fast Food Restaurants Near Me in Toronto

There’s nothing like a delicious, fast food meal. If you live in Toronto, chances are you have a fast food restaurant near you. So whether you're looking for something quick or craving a specific flavor, there's no shortage of delicious options.

Besides, the Canadian fast food market is growing by 4.2% in 2022, meaning more options for you! Also, the fast food restaurant industry in Canada increased faster than the Accommodation and Food Services In Canada sector overall in the past few years.

Read Originally Published Blog: https://eatanceapp.com/blog/top-10-best-fast-food-restaurants-near-me-in-toronto/

[taeiun]

sweet venom.

synopsis: when you pull them by the collar of their shirt to kiss them

who: zb1's middle & maknae line x gn!reader (yujin not included)

categories: fluff, sort of suggestive, hurt / comfort, headcanons + short scenarios

warnings: light swearing, mentions of food in gyuvin's section, not proofread bc im such a slay so please please please lmk if there's more

word count: 1.5k

✧ MATTHEW !

⟡ you do it to shut him up /hj. affectionately. this canadian man is funky and we love and cheer for him because of that. but boy do most canadians have something in common: talking. (as a canadian im allowed to say this)

⟡ in this case, it’s not storytelling or his ad campaigns, it’s about how he loses to you in mario kart for the fifth time in a row. for all i know, he could be cracked at mario kart, but let’s be honest, he would somehow go from second place down to eleventh within a matter of minutes. 

⟡ matthew isn't a sore loser by any means, his whining about losing are mainly all for fun and to tease, but after the fourth game… maybe he does gaf y’know :/ 

⟡ pouty!!! also probably throws the controller, lightly mind you, to the side before taking a deep breath in and letting out a silent scream into his palms as the screen flashes with another loss for him. 

⟡ kiss it better otherwise he’ll never play again (that’s a lie) (he’d do almost anything you’d ask him to) (whipped)

matthew leaned his head back against the couch cushion and pinched his arm to make sure that this was real as his character finally crossed the finish line. in eighth place. you looked over at him encouragingly, made a remark about how this was better than last game, before patting his knee. he threw you a scathing glare, whines bubbled up from his throat, and he leaned his full body weight against you. he didn’t notice that there was a tug on his shirt, the soft cotton balled up in your fist as you pulled, before his lips were on yours, his whines drowned out. it was embarrassing how fast he melted into the contact, eyes closed as he rested a hand overtop of yours, he’d never live it down.

✧ TAERAE !

⟡ a kiss like this with taerae would most likely happen in a slow, sort of slow, heat of the moment thing. but it would be a softer, gentle tug of his shirt. nothing too fast. 

⟡ you both would probably be looking at each other already, coming down from the high of hanging out together before bam! it hits the both of you that “wow. i'm incredibly in love with this person.��� 

⟡ ngl… he’d be a bit too hesitant to do much about it at first. but i mean. that’s why you’re the one gripping his shirt collar and not the other way around-

⟡ he stares at you with wide eyes and a facial expression like :o when his lips are suddenly pressed against yours. but taerae recovers from the shock fairly quickly and leans into it, eyes closed as he kisses back with the tease of a grin on his face. 

⟡ he’ll pull away with the biggest smile and pinch your cheek before going in to kiss you again, being the one to pull you in this time.

water dripped from his thoroughly soaked hair, trailed down his jaw and continued to dampen the fabric of his shirt, leaving no place dry as you both stood outside amidst the rain. he stared at you, breath coming sharp from his mouth as he looked at you in some awe. you laughed and in return, so did he. you cupped his face gently, wiped a thumb under his eye to clear the water, efforts futile. taerae grabbed your hand and tugged, nose bumped against yours, before he greedily took your lips in his once again.

✧ RICKY !

⟡ he’s insufferable istg / j. ok but you not be able to get away with this move properly imo without having some sort of built up tension. as in the type of tension to cut with a knife, the opposite of taerae’s. 

⟡ ricky would be able to see you go in for the kiss from a mile away… he just. knows these things somehow and is prepared. he would have to be distracted enough, emotionally, in order to pull it off. 

⟡ that or you wrestle him and pin him for long enough. i have such a strong urge to grab this guy by the necktie and shake him around a little. affectionately i swear. 

⟡ despite the colder appearance, ricky is emotionally intelligent and he does have his softer moments. the aftermath of a fight would be the main scene i picture this happening in? 

⟡ “do you even want this?” // “what-” // “do you even want us?” // “of course i do.” type of beat do you get me? you feel me? you hear me? set me freeee- erm. 

there was something about the silence, weight undeniable as you and ricky stood opposite of each other. shoulders tensed, he heaved out a sigh and pinched the bridge of his nose as you dug your nails into the palm of your hand in a closed fist. you knew what was coming; the rush of doubts and worry that would spill from his mouth about the relationship and how he constantly felt as if you deserved better, how he was the damage. you marched with a purpose towards him, placed a hand firmly on his waist as he knotted his brows together in mild confusion, before butterflies bursted in his chest. the pressed collar of his shirt would need ironing later, crumpled in your tight grasp, but ricky couldn’t find it in himself to care all too much, not when he cupped the back of your head and pressed you closer.

✧ GYUVIN !

⟡ it would be a “did you eat the last donut in the fridge?” // “yes. what are you going to do about it?” // “get it back of course.” // *starts making out* type of thing. 

⟡ we know this man has the best reactions to things so just. he flounders when you first kiss him out of the blue; like a literal fish out of water despite this not being the first time lol. 

⟡ idk i just feel like this would happen so often?? like i see gyuvin dating someone with similar energy and excitement towards things (not to say he wouldn’t date you otherwise. man falls hard in general) but just imagine doing something dumb and then one of you pulls the other in. 

⟡ “i can’t believe you just did that.” // “yeah well.” // *making out again* this whole thing is just. gyuvin coded imo. maybe im just sleep deprived. 

⟡ when you do it however… he can’t do anything but stare are you with those eyes of his. you already know the ones. shellshocked, flabbergasted, stunned, electrocuted, astonished, etc etc.

you grinned as gyuvin flailed his arms before resting them on your shoulders, slumping into the kiss. it was sweet in a literal sense; you could taste the powdered sugar and jam that stained his mouth from earlier. his face was fully flushed when you pulled apart. you giggled and swiped a thumb at the corner of his lips, collected the last bit of your sweet treat, and brought it to your mouth with a wink before walking away like nothing ever happened.

✧ GUNWOOK !

⟡ omg the scene i have in mind is when you have to leave for a while, talking like a month or more, and won’t be seeing gunwook for the next while. he’s so intent on making things work out for all the time you guys are doing the ldr. 

⟡ runs through a list of everything you’ll need to pack, triple checks everything with you, makes sure you have the right flight booked… you’ll have to pull him aside and reassure him that you’ll be fine and that he doesn’t need to worry about anything; doing all that is kind of a stress reaction. 

⟡ is so jittery leading up to the day where you have to leave :( clears his schedule to the best of his abilities to make sure he has all the time with you. 

⟡ 100% is seeing you off at the airport don’t even think otherwise. “you’ll call me when you land, right?” // “of course.” // “and you’ll update me with stuff you’ve done? And sec pictures of yourself?” // “sweetie-” 

⟡ kiss him to shut up but softer and with more tears bc he will start crying and bury his face into your shoulder. 

gunwook thought he looked horrible, face puffed up and nose runny as he sniffled and wiped away the tears in the corners of his eyes. you thought completely the opposite; there was something about the early morning sun that shone through the windows and highlighted the rosy parts of his cheeks and the small pout he wore on his lips. he opened his mouth, ready to go on another ramble before you delicately pressed your lips against his. the drawstrings of his hoodie were twirled between your fingers as you pulled lightly on the thick material. he smiled into the touch, eyes still rimmed with tinges of red, and held on for one last kiss.

^ . _ . ^ notes: first post on the new blog... apologies for any mistakes im notorious for writing these late at night and giving up when it comes to proofreading TwT.

© taeiun 2023. all rights reserved. do not copy, repost, translate, modify, or claim any of my writing as yours.

[asunsetgrace16]

✧ …𝗛𝗘𝗬 𝗗𝗔𝗗, 𝗙𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗬 𝗦𝗘𝗘𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘⎥𝗖𝗕98

Pairing: Connor Bedard x fem!Crosby!reader

Warnings: swearing

Summary: Connor and Y/N Crosby, Sidney's daughter, are in a secret relationship and are outed when she goes to the All Stars with her dad

Notes: The italics section is the flashback to how Connor and Y/N met. This is my new longest fic, and man I got carried away writing how Y/N and Connor met. Not really proofread, so hope for the best. Requested by anonymous.

masterlist⎥ navigation

Word Count: 2.3k

It’s not exactly unexpected, for Connor Bedard and Y/N Crosby to be dating. His childhood idol, her father. Their lives are interconnected by a web of hockey players, former teammates, and friendships a mile deep. But, the caveat is, no one actually knows they are together. 

Y/N knew her dad would lose his mind when he found out who exactly her boyfriend is. From the time she was old enough to date, the rule was no hockey players, absolutely no teammates, and especially no rookies. Will he find out? Eventually, but not any time soon if Y/N has anything to say about it.

-

“I have tickets to most of the Canadian games, and I want to watch them win gold, in person. I was planning on going to the condo. No Dad, I'm fine. No, you don’t need to have Auntie Taylor come with me. I’m absolutely taking advantage of the fact that we have a place right where the World Juniors are happening. I’m seventeen for God’s sake, and I’ve been fairly independent for years. I’ll be fine.” Y/N says, on the phone with her dad. 

“I know, but you’re still my little girl. I’ll always want to protect you, no matter how old you get.” her dad, Sidney, says.

“I know dad, but this will be good practice for when I’m away at university.” She tells him teasingly.

“Uhhhg, don’t remind me.” he groans, “I trust you not to burn the place down, and try not to go overboard, with anything. The credit card for food and stuff is in the safe, and you have your own for anything else. Call me, if you need anything.”

“Thanks dad, I will.”

“Love you honey.”

Love you too, dad. Bye.”

There, that’s settled, Y/N thinks to herself. She is already in Cole Harbour, staying with her grandparents for Christmas. They already know her plans, and she convinced –not that she needed any convincing– her aunt Taylor to come with her for a girls trip. She flips her laptop open, hits play on Downton Abbey, and finishes her packing. 

“Tay, are you ready yet?” Y/N calls a few hours later. She hefts her suitcase down the stairs, shouldering a backpack.

“Yeah bug, just put my bags in the car. Bring yours out here too.” Taylor replies, “We can be on the road in twenty if we hurry.”

“Make it fifteen.” Y/N challenges with a grin.

The preliminary round of the tournament passes fast. After the shocking Game 1 loss, Canada bounces back and plows through every game afterwards. An exciting quarterfinals win against Slovakia has Canada set to play USA in the semifinals. A match up that always promises an electric game.

After the quarterfinal game, Y/N and Taylor head back to the dressing rooms and player’s entrance for a shortcut to the parking lot. They both have access, thanks to Sid. They talk excitedly about Bedard’s OT winner, a wicked 3-on-1 goal. 

“That was incredible.” Y/N exclaims. She’s no stranger to good hockey, but seeing a player that young, one her own age, to have such amazing talent is unreal to see. 

“Yes it was-” Taylor starts, but is cut off by a man in a suit stalking towards them.

“Hey! You two aren’t allowed back here. Players and staff only. Who do you think you are? Waltzing around here like you own the place? No respect anymore.” He rants before someone grabs him, pulling him away from Y/N and Taylor.

“I am so sorry about Randy. I’m Jim, by the way.” Jim apologizes, “I’m assuming that since you’re back here, you have permission. Is there something I can do to make it up to you? Wait, you’re Crosby’s daughter, aren't you? This makes a lot more sense now.”

“Yes I am, and we have permission. I can’t think of anything, it’s not necessary.” Y/N says. But Jim is determined, knowing who she is now. He offers to introduce the women to the team. They agree, and after Jim explains the situation to Randy, they all head back towards Canada’s dressing room. Talking the whole way, Jim explains that the team has a place rented for the tournament where the boys can hang out and relax. 

“If you’d like to join us, you are more than welcome. I won’t tell them who you are, I’ll let that happen naturally.” Jim says with a wink. “I want to see the look on their faces. It’s too bad your dad couldn't make it. That would really blow their socks off.” The group laughs and waits for Randy to make sure all the guys are decent, and beacons them in with a sheepish look, apologizing once again. The introduction is basic, no announcement or anything. Taylor and Y/N meet the rest of the staff first, quickly becoming engrossed in conversation. 

“So,” the head coach says, “Crosby’s daughter. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“And you.” Y/N replies.

“Coach, did you just say Crosby's daughter? She's here? Holy shit!” one of the players exclaims, joining their little group. “I’m Brandt, nice to meet you. Is your dad here, by chance?” He says, very quickly. The energy rolls right off of him.

“No, he’s not, unfortunately. West Coast road trip.” Y/N says, failing to hide a giggle. 

“Wanna mess with the guys with me?” Brandt asks, a scheming look on his face.

“Always.”

“Ok, I’m going to introduce you around, but not mention your last name. I want to see how long it takes the guys to figure out who you are.”

“Oh I like that.” They grin at each other, and make their way around the room. Before long, the whole team is standing or sitting close together, chatting with Y/N. The adrenaline can still be felt in the dressing room. 

“So how long are you in town for?” Dylan asks, “Hopefully long enough to watch us win gold.”

Y/N and Brandt exchange a look, “I’m planning on it. I don’t have to be back in Pittsburgh until the tenth.”

“Pittsburgh? You came all the way up here, to watch a Canadian team win? That makes no sense.” Logan wonders, looking confused.

“Oh I’m Canadian, I just live in Pittsburg with my dad. I was up visiting my grandparents for Christmas.” Y/N says. It is getting awfully difficult to keep a straight face. 

“Where do your grandparents live?” That comes from Olen.

“Cole Harbour.”

“Does that mean you've met Sidney Crosby?” Ethan asks. 

“Yup, see him all the time.” She bites back a smile. Brandt has to turn around and take a deep, shuddering breath so he doesn’t give them away. Connor sees him out of the corner of his eye. 

“Wait, you’re Y/N Crosby!” Connor says, standing up just as Y/N and Brandt burst out laughing. The rest of the boys look shocked as the two struggle to stop laughing. Connor grins, chuckling as Y/N wipes honest-to-goodness tears from her eyes. The staff and Taylor laugh amongst themselves, watching the young folks. 

“Guilty as charged.” She says breathlessly, silently wondering if Brandt is going to die of oxygen deprivation at this point. His face is pretty red. Now the questions are really flowing by the time Brandt finally regains some composure. The excited chatter doesn’t stop at the restaurant, either. Y/N and Taylor are invited to stay. As the evening winds down, Y/N finds herself with Connor, conversation flowing easily. 

“Nice goal, by the way. Dad was impressed.” Y/N says, nudging his shoulder with hers.

“Really?” Connor flushes. Cute.

“Yeah, he sees a lot in you.”

“That is…I have no words.” He admits. “Do you, um, do you think you’d want to sit with my family for the rest of the games? I want to talk to you more, and um…I’m just going to stop talking before I make a fool out of myself.”

“I’d love to.”

Connor and Y/N spend a lot of time together in the following days. She sits with his family during the final, and celebrates with them after they win gold.

“We did it!” Connor shouts, picking Y/N up and spinning her around. There is a moment when he sets her down where her arms are still on his shoulders and his hands are on her waist. The noise fades away, just the two of them in a little bubble. “Can I have your number? I’d like to keep talking to you, and take you out sometime.”

“Yeah, I’d like that.” She replies.

-

Now, over a year and 10 months into dating later, Connor and Y/N are both in Toronto for the All Stars. 

“Hey baby.” Connor says, putting his phone away when Y/N slips into the empty visitors dressing room.

“Hey Con.” She goes to him easily, settling comfortably into his open arms. He puts his chin on her head and tightens his hold on her. “I miss you.”

“I miss you too. I’m glad you decided to come.”

“Me too.” She tips her head up, meeting Connor in the middle for a sweet kiss. They go back to their hug, Y/N tucked against his chest, feeling warm again in the cold arena. They simply stand like that, swaying gently and soaking up the moment. They get so wrapped up in each other that they fail to hear voices outside the door. Connor goes to kiss Y/N again, but is interrupted by the door slamming open. Their heads snap to the door, wide eyed and scared.

“Y/N ANNA CROSBY. WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON?” Sidney yells furiously, steam practically shooting from his ears like a cartoon character. Nate is standing close behind him, and Cale, Mathew Barzal, and Brady Tkachuk stand in the doorway. Connor and Y/N take a step back from each other, but keep their hands tightly clasped.

“How dare you not tell me about this. You know the rules, I expect you to follow them.”

“I-” She begins.

“And you,” Sid says, pointing at Connor, “I expected better from you. You’re a good kid, but I have rules for a reason.” Y/N grips Connor’s hand, squeezing three times. 

“You can’t control me like this, Dad. I’ve never had a real relationship because of you. So much of my life is wrapped up in hockey that it was easy to find my person there, and if it wasn’t a hockey-playing boyfriend, it was a hockey fan boyfriend which is worse. All they ever wanted to talk about was you, they never wanted me for who I am. Or you just plain scared them off because ‘no one is good enough for my daughter so why should she even bother’.” Y/N says back to him. Her chest is heaving and she is fighting off tears. 

“I can’t believe that you didn’t tell me this. How long have you two been together anyways?” Sid asks, still pissed off.

“Ten months.” Connor replies, voice strong and true despite the situation. He is nervous, of course, but he loves Y/N too much to let his childhood idol have much of an impact.

“TEN MONTHS!” Sid exclaims, incredulous that his daughter kept this secret, “Bloody hell. What possessed you to keep this from me?”

“This exact reaction that I knew would happen. I knew that if I told you when Connor first asked me out, you would flat-out forbid me to see him, and that wouldn’t have ended the way you wanted anyway. At least this way the two of us can act as a united front and you can see that this isn’t bad. We are both 18, legal adults. You can’t tell me what to do anymore.”

Sid stays silent. He is still angry, but the figurative steam has gone away. Nate and the others hover around the door.

Y/N continues, “I get it, Dad. You just want to protect me, and I love you for it. But I’m not a little kid anymore, I can’t be sheltered forever. And Connor’s good to me. You know he would be.” She takes a deep breath, “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, but I knew that if I did, you would react exactly the way you are. I wanted to be able to figure out my relationship without my dad looking over my shoulder the whole time.”

Sid’s face falls at her monologue. He can finally understand what Y/N was trying to say for years. “I’m sorry sweetheart. I had no intention for it to go that far. It is hard to watch you grow up, but I need to grow up some too and understand that you are an adult now. In my attempts to protect you, I drove you straight into what I always knew would happen. Thankfully, you picked a good one.” Sid pulls his daughter into a hug, tears threatening to fall. “I’m sorry. Please forgive me, it wasn’t fair of me.”

“Thanks dad, for apologizing. I know you meant well, but I don’t think this wasn’t the best way to get you to see my side of it” Y/N quips, a wry smile on her face. 

“I’m still pissed that you didn’t tell me, but I’d rather it was you than a lot of other guys” Sid states, reaching out to shake Connor’s hand, “but if you hurt her, I have a lot of power in this game.”

“I know,” Connor says, eyes focused on Y/N. A look so full of love even Sidney can’t deny it, “I wouldn’t dream of it.”

“Awwww.” The trio looks up to see the other four guys with their hands clasped over their hearts, cute pouts on their lips. 

“The babies are in love.” Cale says with a grin.