#Dallas Stars Fic

[ilyasorokinn]

hello my darling, congratulations on 2.5k you deserve it all and more!! 💘💘

could I request “You can’t just act like nothings wrong when it is!” with Roope Hintz!! 🫶🏼

CHEATER, CHEATER, PUMPKIN EATER

thank you bestie! love you <3

21. "you can't just act like nothing's wrong when it is." (from this prompt list, angst)

tw: cheating

for a while, you had an inkling that something was wrong but you didn't want to believe it, so you just pushed it to the back of your mind.

but you can only ignore something for so long.

in the beginning, your boyfriend, cole, was a good boyfriend. he would send you random things at work or bring you presents after work. but somewhere in between the 6-12 month period, something went wrong.

the first red flag was when he would come home at all hours of the night, smelling only slightly of another woman's perfume. it was so faint you almost couldn't smell it, but it was there.

the second red flag was him forgetting date nights, again, using the work excuse. more often than not, you would find yourself sitting alone at a fancy restaurant, waiting for cole to show up, only to look like a fool when he would text you from home, asking where you were.

and the last red flag, which could also be classified as a red billboard, was when he called you another woman's name. you were in the kitchen and he was in the living room.

"hey, cas, could you get me a beer from the fridge?" you froze. you knew, right then and there, he was cheating.

you don't remember leaving the apartment, but somehow you ended up at roope's apartment. it was almost like you were on autopilot.

"so, what'd wrong? why're you acting like this?"

"i think cole's cheating on me," you said.

"you think?"

"i know." you corrected yourself.

"how do you know?"

"he came home a few weeks ago and he smelled like perfume but it wasn't mine. it was one of those really expensive ones. then he stood me up on date night. he wasn't at work, i called his secretary, and he wasn't at home. and tonight, he called me cas."

roope looked upset for you. more upset than you somehow, "how are you so calm? why aren't you like screaming? throwing a fit?"

"i don't know." you shrugged, "do you have cheese? cheese sounds nice." you stood up off his couch and headed for his kitchen.

"y/n, you can't just act like nothing's wrong when there is!" he stated.

"oh, i'm sorry. is there a proper way to react when you find out you've been cheated on? i must've missed that part in school." you glared.

"i didn't say that. i'm just saying he's a cheater, y/n. he's gross."

"i know that, but i don't know what to do." your eyes finally filled with the tears you were so scared to cry.

"here's what we're gonna do. we're gonna go back to your apartment, and we're gonna gather all the stuff you left there, then we're gonna come back here and we're gonna just binge. whatever you want." you smiled.

"you sure you don't mind? i'm kind of crazy."

"well, we all are."

taylor's 2.5k celly!

[senditcolton]

Would It Be Enough?

Knowing their morning routine so perfectly that you already have some of their breakfast/drinks laid out before they get to the kitchen.

part of my Valentine's Day prompts requested by anon | word count: 0.7k | warnings: none!

Dating a professional athlete came with its own unique set of struggles on top of all the other traditional conflicts. You knew that and you agreed to deal with them when you agreed to date Roope Hintz. The conflicts, the hurdles – they all came and you faced them together.

And it worked. It had been working for months now. You two made it work.

However, the only thing that you still hadn’t completely overcome… was the distance. Not the physical distance, like when he was in New York and you were in Texas. It was the distance between the two of you even when you both were in the same city. His career demanded so much of his time and it made you sad that the everyday intimacy that most couples experiences was a rarity.

You wished that the two of you could have casual nights out with no curfew. You wished that he would be able to attend your friend’s parties with you. But more than anything, you wished that you could wake up in the morning with him by your side.

To see the dawning sunlight fall across his skin, to see his blonde hair lit up to the palest of yellows, to watch his bright blue eyes open…

When you had the chance to experience those mornings, they were some of the most magical moments in your relationship. But they were few and far between. Roope would be up and gone, off to morning skate before you even roused from your slumber.

You mentioned your desires to have more of those type of slow mornings with him off-handedly one night. The words were followed by a quick reassurance to Roope that you didn’t hold any resentment towards him. You knew what you signed up for. It was just a wish.

But whenever you wake up to find an empty bed, like you did this morning – the ache in your heart remained.

A sigh escapes your chest as you burrow into the covers for a moment longer. You breathe in, trying to absorb the lingering warmth and scent of Roope that the sheets had trapped beneath them. Another deep breath, another few seconds of holding off the inevitable until you reluctantly throw the sheets off your body. You roll out of the bed, stretching before making your way out of the bedroom.

You walk down to the kitchen, ready to make your daily breakfast, but when you turn the corner, the sight of your insulated to-go cup sitting in the middle of the counter stops you in your tracks.

It was supposed to be in the cupboard. You were certain that you had put it away the night before. It isn’t until your groggy brain registers the white paper bag next to the cup. You walk closer until you are close enough to see the logo of your favorite café emblazoned on the side of the bag.

The piece of paper from your stationary resting on the marble island is the last thing that you notice. You pick up the decorated paper, your eyes dancing over a messy scrawl that you recognize instantly to be Roope’s. You read over the message, your heart softening at every sentence.

Kultaseni [sweetheart], I know that you wish we could have more mornings together. But I want you to know that even though I’m not always the first person you see when you wake up, I hope I’m the first person on your mind. Because you are on mine constantly. I’m sorry being with me isn’t normal. I hope this is enough.

His note makes tears appear in your eyes and you place the paper back down. Your hands eagerly reach towards the paper bag, opening it to find your go-to snack nestled in the bottom. And when you take a sip from your insulated cup, the flavor of your favorite drink dances over your tastebuds.

To anyone else, from the outside looking in, the action may not have seemed like much. But for you, it was enough. It was more than enough.

[starshine-hockey-girl]

Bridge Over Troubled Water- Journey to the Emerald City Chapter Fourteen

Summary- Teddy and Lex head overseas for a romantic trip to Europe

Author's Notes- 4K

@pattiemac1 @dutch-tv-fan @penstxgal1968 @alittlecuddlefish @juuuuuse

July 2019- American Airlines jet

Lex placed his backpack in his first class pod as Teddy sat down in her seat. She smiled and he sat next to her. He smiled and stretched out. The pod offered him ample leg room which would be much needed on the long flight. He looked over and gave a grin, "Did I do well?" 

She sat on her knees on her seat and kissed him over the divider. “This is a great start,” she smiled, “I will warn you. I may have to sneak into your pod for a snuggle session later.” 

He frowned slightly, “You don’t like the pods?”

She shook her head vigorously, “I love the pods. They are so much better than trying to sleep in a regular seat. There is room to stretch and put all of your stuff.” 

“Why do I suspect there is a but coming?” he asked softly. 

“There is a wall between us. It is not really conducive to snuggling. Look though, there is a little seat for me to come visit you or I could just climb on top of you,” she soothed. “It’s my first time flying first class to Europe. I feel so fancy,” she laughed. She hoped that he wouldn’t question her further. 

“How did you fly to Europe before? I know that you have been before,” he asked.

“Well, he who shall not be named and I flew coach when we went to Italy,” she answered. 

“What about when you went for Frankie’s sixteenth birthday?” he prodded. She looked down and didn’t answer. “It was on the jet, wasn’t it? Of course you flew to Spain on a private jet,” he moaned. “I am never going to impress you, Bliss,” he whined. 

Teddy got up and marched around the aisle to the opening to his pod. The aisles were full of passengers walking to their seats. She plopped down on the visitor seat in his pod and poked his leg. “Hey you,” she spoke gently. “You don’t think I am impressed by this trip?. I am not oblivious to how much these tickets cost, plus the cost of hotels and everything else. This isn’t cheap, Lex. I know it and I appreciate it. I know that is a big expense for you and you are not one to throw your money around. However, you are spending it on me because you love me and you value me.” Lex looked up shyly and gave her a grin. “That being said, what impresses me the most is your heart. You have the biggest heart that gives me the biggest love. I appreciate this trip but you impress me the most with the day-to-day stuff. Do you want the list?” she countered. Teddy climbed onto his lap, “You impress me, Lex. You impress me more than anyone I have ever known.” She kissed his cheeks before giving him a full kiss on the mouth. “Say that you believe me, Lex,” she whispered. 

“I believe you, Bliss,” he breathed into her ear, “I believe you.”

“Good,” she said as she sat up and bopped his nose. He smiled as she returned to her pod for takeoff. She held up her hand and he took it into his over the divider. It was their tradition to hold hands during take-off. He leaned forward and kissed it as the wheels lifted off the ground. 

“Hey Lex,” she laughed, “You know what I am really impressed with?”

“No, what?“ he answered. 

“That big dick and how you fuck me with it,” she giggled. 

“Down Kitty Kat- it’s a long flight and there is no way this body can do it in that tiny airplane bathroom” he warned, “but I am glad that you are impressed.”

“Boo. You are a party pooper, Tiger Man,” she pouted. 

“Bliss,” Lex called from the hotel bedroom, “We need to leave soon to make it to the show on time. I know that you don’t want to miss it when the curtain goes up.” 

Teddy examined her reflection in the mirror. She was hesitant about the cut of the dress and the amount of cleavage that was on display, but did have to admit that “the girls” did look spectacular. “Almost done,” she called back. One final glance over and she emerged from the small bathroom. She walked into the room and looked at Lex who was turned away, staring out of the window. He wore the same brown suit as he did in Dallas when they saw Wicked the first time. Teddy bit her lip and took in the sight of his muscular body. Lex turned from the window and stared. His mouth opened and closed a few times before Teddy quipped, “Cat got your tongue, Tiger?” 

He walked over and took her hand into his and spun her around. The emerald green, deep V-necked gown twirled slightly as she moved. “That’s quite the dress, Bliss,” he smiled, “You look fantastic.” His fingers lightly played with her loose curls that were held in a loose up-do. 

“So no comment on Tiger?” she laughed. She had recently given him the nickname during the recent foray into kinkier sex. 

“If I make a comment, then you will say something snappy back and then the next thing you know is that I have you pressed against the wall and we miss the opening number,” he teased.

“Just the opening number?” she joked,

“The whole damn show. You have it memorized so you could probably act it out yourself,” he retorted, “It will save me the torture.”

“Hey,” she said softly, “You are the one that bought the tickets. It was the whole point of the trip. 

 “Yes, I did buy the tickets,” he corrected.“but that’s not the whole point of the trip, Bliss,” 

“What’s the point of the trip?” she asked. 

“You’ll see,” he smiled and pulled her in for a kiss. 

At the theater, he held Teddy’s hand as they ascended the stairs to the theater. His hand was placed firmly on her back as he guided her through the lobby to the bar. They had just enough time for a pre-show cocktail before the show. Lex took notice of several gentlemen giving Teddy double-takes as they chatted in the VIP lounge. She was, however, adorably oblivious to the attention, which warmed his heart. What didn’t escape Teddy’s attention was the subtle looks of envy she received from other women in the well-appointed area. “That’s right, girls- he is all mine,” she teased mentally. 

Lex looked at her and smiled,”What’s going on in that mind of yours? Are you good?”

Teddy placed her hand on his chest and gave him a bashful grin as she peered up at him through her eyelashes. “I am so good, Lex,” she said as she traced small circles on his chest, “I was just thinking how you are the most handsome man in the room and all the other women are looking at you like a snack that they want to taste. However, they don’t have a shot because you are mine.”

He leaned down and whispered in her ear, “What other women? I only see one woman.” Teddy grinned and kissed his cheek. “Let’s go before we miss Glinda’s spectacular entrance. We can’t miss that,” he joked. They walked in and took their front row seats. Teddy’s mouth dropped as she sat down. Immediately she grabbed Lex’s arm and rested her head on his shoulder when he took his seat. The music started and the curtain went up. Lex smiled as Teddy sat forward and became transfixed by the show. He pulled out a handkerchief and handed it to her as “Not That Girl” began. She looked back at him and smiled. He mouthed “I love you” before she returned her attention to the stage. 

At intermission, they walked back to the VIP lounge for another drink. He handed her a cocktail and smiled at her. Teddy gazed into his eyes and suddenly felt the tears form. “Bliss?” he questioned as he pulled into his body, “Tell me.”

“It’s so different than the first time,” she whispered, “yet it feels almost the same. You were so sweet and kind to me. I fell in love with you that night. I didn’t know it then, but I did.” 

“You fell in love that night? I am sorry that I was slower,” he soothed. 

“It’s okay,” she murmured, “I wasn’t that girl to you then.”

“No, you were always that girl, Bliss. I was too stupid to realize it. I am glad I did before someone else snatched you away from me,” Lex said softly. Suddenly he was overcome with emotion, “Shit, why am I crying?” 

“I don’t know. We have to get it together. We are going to blubbering messes later,” she laughed to lighten the mood. He shook his head in disbelief. Yet, he gladly accepted her offered tissue as “For Good” started. He pulled her to his chest and she sang softly, “But I know I'm who I am today because I knew you.”

Back at the hotel, Teddy carried her shoes as she walked barefoot down the hall to their room. “Hey Lex,” she said quietly.

“Yeah,” he nudged her arm. 

“If I forget to tell you later, this has been one of the best nights of my life,” she mused, “You spoiled me.”

“You deserve it, Bliss,” he replied as he opened the door. Teddy walked past him and paused in front of him. He unzipped her dress and kissed her shoulders. She gingerly stepped out the dress and revealed her thigh high stockings and lace panties. He let out a low whistle as she turned around and gave him a shy smile. “What’s on the agenda tomorrow, Bliss?” he questioned as she walked to the closet to hang up the dress. In the three days they had been in London, each day had been full of museum and bus tours. They had been on the go from morning to night. 

She turned to walk to the bathroom but paused. “Nothing scheduled. I would like to go to Harrods sometime tomorrow and maybe go on a river cruise. Why?”

He walked to her and lifted her up. He cradled her in his arms and walked her to bed. “I wanted to know if we have an early morning.”

She smiled, “Oh, do you have plans?”

“Yeah,” he kissed her tenderly as he put her on the bed, “I plan on making love to you all night.”

She lifted her hips and wiggled out of her panties. She tossed them onto the floor. Her hand went to the stockings. “Leave them,” he demanded as he stripped off his clothes, “They’re hotter than hell.”

“You like?” she grinned as he climbed on top of her. She felt his erection press against her body. 

He moaned as he slid into her waiting sex, “More than like. My God, Bliss…..You turn me on. I can’t think straight.”

“Don’t think, Lex- just fuck,” she kissed his neck as her hips rocked to meet this thrusts.

“Yes ma’am,” he groaned as he hooked her leg over his hip to thrust deeper, “Going to fuck you all night.”

Four days later- Paris

Lex sat on the small bed and sighed. They had just arrived in Paris on an early morning flight from London. He swore that the room looked bigger in the pictures. He had been so proud that he had planned the trip without much input from Teddy. To be honest, he had booked flights and hotels. With the exception of the tickets to Wicked, Teddy had planned the daily itineraries. He couldn’t even complain about them. They were detailed, organized and alternated between a busy, full day of sites and a lazy, unplanned day of relaxation. Teddy called them days to “soak up the culture”. 

Teddy stood in the doorway to the bathroom and smiled. “It’s cozy, Lex,” she tried to make the best of it, “I love it.” She took a step to the window and looked at the Eiffel Tower. “The view is lovely.” 

“Bliss,” he laid back and spread his arms wide. His arm span exceeded the width of the bed. His long legs hung over the edge of the bed.  He sat back up and reached to touch her arm. “It’s tiny,” he whined, “It’s so small.” She turned to look at him and saw the look of misery on his face. 

“Do you want me to get us a different room? A bigger room?” she asked sweetly.

“Can you? You know- work that Teddy magic? he asked expectantly. 

Within the hour, they had checked out of the hotel Lex had selected and were being escorted to their suite in the five star hotel that Teddy secured. There had been a war of credit cards at check-in which ultimately Teddy won. “I have not paid for a single thing on this trip- nothing- so let me pay for the better room. I may have splurged just a bit too,” she insisted. Lex could tell right away the hotel was WAY more expensive than his selection. His jaw dropped as the door to the suite opened up. The large suite was bright and airy. There were Eiffel Tower views from every window. Duplex Suite at Shangri-La Paris

“Where’s the bed?” he asked as the bellman pointed to the stairs which led to a large bedroom upstairs. Even Teddy’s jaw dropped as the bellman opened the door to the private terrace with an amazing Eiffel Tower view. Lex tested out the bed and found it to be large enough. 

Teddy walked out onto the terrace while Lex tipped the bellman generously. He found Teddy and wrapped his arms around her body as she stared at the Eiffel Tower. “Thanks for the upgrade, Bliss,” he kissed her neck, “How far behind have I thrown us off your schedule?” 

She grinned, “Actually we are not behind at all. We don’t really have anything planned until this evening. If you are hungry, I have a few restaurants that I want to try. Other than that we can take a stroll or nap.” She turned her head and winked, “We will need our rest for tonight. I do have a couple of things planned.”

“Lunch and then a nap sound perfect,” he smiled. 

LATER THAT AFTERNOON

“Lex,” she said as he gathered his things and put them in the backpack, “Don’t forget your jacket.”

“Bliss, I am already in a sweatshirt and sweating,” he whined. 

“Just put it in the backpack or don’t whine later,” she responded, “It will be cold down there.” He rolled his eyes and zipped up the backpack, which did contain her jacket. There had been quite the debate in Dallas when Teddy had insisted that Lex bring a couple of sweatshirts and a jacket for the trip. They had proved to be invaluable on some rainy days in England. Why he was balking at wearing them in Paris confused her. 

At the entrance to the Catacombs, a young gentleman held up a sign that simply said “Oleksiak”. Teddy and Lex walked up to him and Teddy greeted him, “Bonsoir, I’m Teddy and this is Lex. Are you our tour guide?” 

He looked up at Lex and said, “Yes, I am. Come with me.” They were led past the line that snaked around the building. Julian, the tour guide, marveled at Lex’s size as Teddy tried to explain that Lex played hockey and not football or basketball. They held hands as Lex followed Julian down the narrow, spiral stairs to the catacombs.

"How many steps are there?" Lex questioned as he struggled to navigate the steps that did not accommodate his large feet. His broad shoulders barely fit in the stairwell.

"131 stairs on the way down," Teddy answered.

"Ugh," he whined.

"If it's any consolation, there are only 112 going back up," she tried to joke.

"Who thought this was a good idea?" he looked back and teased.

"Your beautiful and awesome girlfriend who you love so much?",she answered.

He smiled and pulled her in for a kiss, "It's a good thing I adore you. Hey, we only have 70 more steps to go!"

An hour later, they emerged up the stairs from the catacombs. On the street, Lex stretched his arms high above his head, “Bliss, I will do anything for you but never ask me to do that again. It was torture.” 

“It sounded like a lot more fun on the internet. You're right though. An hour of walking around in a dark, cramped space filled with skeletons? I’ll pass on that,” she sighed, “I am sorry I made you do it.” Teddy folded her arms over her body and scanned the sidewalk. Their driver was supposed to be waiting on them. She looked at her watch and shook her head nervously. 

“Bliss Babe, look at me,” he spoke gently as she paced. She stopped and stared at him. “First, I was being dramatic. It was an interesting history." He walked over to her, "Second, you make everything an adventure. I have never had a better travel companion," he soothed. "Third, I made you watch the damn soccer game at that obnoxious pub so I won't complain about one dud experience." He wrapped her in his arms and she rested her head on his chest. "I didn't mean to upset you, Bliss," he said as he kissed her head.

"At least you didn't almost get in a fistfight here," she laughed. 

Lex smiled, "Hey, the asshole grabbed your ass. I had to protect my woman."

"Chivalry is not dead," she smiled at him. He pushed her hair out of her eyes.  "I'm better now," she proclaimed, "Monthly hormone surge was in effect." He nodded in solidarity.

"Ms. Baxter?" A voice called from the street. Lex tilted his head in question.

"Our next adventure- I guarantee that you will not be hunched over!" She smiled. 

When they stepped out of the car at the boat dock, he smiled. "What are we doing, Bliss?" 

She led down the dock and onto the small boat."I heard that you can see some of the best views of the city from the Seine. We have the boat to ourselves for a private tour."

"All to ourselves?" he said in surprise.

"Well, there is a crew and tour guide so not completely to ourselves," she corrected.

"Oh," he replied with a hint of disappointment, "I was hoping for some privacy."

"Privacy?" She grinned as they boarded the small boat, "How much privacy do you want?" The tour guide led them to the front of the boat past the candlelit table. He then instructed them that they would begin the cruise soon. 

Lex in the cushioned wooden chair and pulled Teddy into his lap. He kissed her temple. "I want enough privacy to make out with my woman if I choose."

"I think that can be arranged," she replied, "We have dinner and the cruise. We end at the Eiffel tower."

"This is fancy, Bliss," he remarked.

"Better than the catacombs?" She asked quietly.

He stretched out his arms and legs, "so much better."

"I redeemed myself?" She smiled.

"Oh yeah," he took his finger to turn her head to kiss her gently. 

"Welcome to the City of Love, my love," she whispered as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

Three days later-Giverny France

Lex held Teddy's hand as they walked along the road between the bus stop and the entrance of Monet's Garden. "So what is the place, Bliss?"

"You have heard of Claude Monet, right?" she started to explain. 

He stopped short and stared at her in disbelief. "Yes, the French impressionist painter- I am a hockey player- not an idiot."

"Sorry," she continued, "I know that you are not an idiot." She walked back to him and kissed his chest. "This is his house and gardens where he painted."

"No shit? Really?" He gazed ahead. "That is impressive. Is it open to the public?"

"Yes," she smiled, "Are you really interested?" Teddy was somewhat shocked after his tepid response to the Louvre.

"Is this about the Louvre?" he questioned, "I was interested in the art, Bliss,  at least for the first two hours of it. I lost interest after the Mona Lisa. That was a complete let down." Teddy smiled at the memory of Lex's disappointment at the size of the disproportionate crowd to artwork size. He read her mind and laughed, "Come on, Bliss! That painting was tiny and I had to elbow through the crowd to get you to the front." Teddy laughed as she remembered how the crowd parted as he walked. His size had the power to speak internationally.

"Then come on Lex. I want to beat the crowd," she said cheerfully. 

Once Teddy showed their pre-ordered admission, they sailed past the line into the house of Claude Monet. Surprisingly it was Lex who spent time reading each and every informational plaque. Teddy stood next to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. 

Finally they made their way out of the house and into the garden. They strolled through the first section before taking the stairs and tunnel to the second section. Teddy gasped when the water gardens came into view. "It's so pretty, Lex" she whispered as she gazed at the wisteria-covered Japanese Bridge.

 Lex pointed to a bench which offered a perfect vantage point. As they sat, his head tilted slightly. "Bliss, why does this look familiar?" He paused and stared again, "Wait, don't you have this? It was in your apartment when we met." He continued, "What happened to it?"

"I got rid of it when I changed apartments after you got traded," she explained and then turned silent again. Lex turned to her, suspicious of her silence. She sat and observed the scenery as tears fell from her eyes. "Bliss?" he questioned softly. She shook her head slowly before she reached for his hand. He readily gave it and squeezed hers tight. He studied her face which appeared serene despite the tears. She wiped her tears and smiled at Lex. He wrapped his large arms around her shoulders and brought her to his chest. He gently stroked her hair as they sat silently. 

"I'm sorry," she finally said in a low voice, "I didn't expect to get emotional. Wow, I can't believe I am actually here. It's like a dream come true."

"You dreamt about coming here?" Lex asked, "You didn't mention it when we were planning. Why?"

Teddy looked away, "It's complicated." She stared at the bridge and then down at the ground. "Frankie loved Monet. When she went to Tech, she had a print of this bridge in her dorm room. After she died, I took it," she rambled. Lex placed his hand on her back and rubbed slowly. "When I moved out into my first apartment, I took it with me," she continued, "At the time, I didn't know much about Monet other than I loved the painting. When things got bad with….." She paused and took a deep inhale, "when he would rage at me for whatever infraction I had committed that day- disagreeing with him or embarrassing him in public. Some days it was breathing. On those days, I would stare at the print and fantasize about what it would be like to be in that world. It looked so beautiful and peaceful." 

"I didn't know that this was a real place. I thought Monet had just painted it from a picture in his mind. It was my mom who gave me a book about Monet for Christmas that I knew it existed," she confessed. She looked at the wisteria and inhaled the scent. "As bad as it was then, there was a part of me that knew I would get here one day. I knew that I would escape and find this place," she sighed. “Then when I got that new apartment, I got rid of it. It was just another painful memory to get rid of like all of the stuff associated with you."

"Bliss," he spoke softly, unsure how to respond. 

"Honestly, I forgot about it until just now," she turned to Lex. She pushed herself into his lap. He wrapped his arms around her as she buried her face into his neck. "In all of those times, when I was dreaming of finding this place, I was alone. I never dreamed that I would have someone to be with me. I thought if I escaped that I would be too damaged for someone to love me."

She looked at his face, "I didn't dare to dream this big. I didn't know that I would find a love this wonderful. I didn't know that we would find each other."

"I forgot about the dream because my reality is better than the dream. I made it Lex. I escaped and finally made it to the place of my dreams," she whispered as she looked into his eyes, "with a man better than I could imagine."

"Are you glad you came here?" He kissed her lips gently.

Teddy turned to take in the breathtaking scenery, "Yes, I am especially since I am with you."

She turned to find him staring at her face. She smirked, "What? Look at how beautiful it is."

"I know it's beautiful, Bliss, but I am looking at my favorite view," he smiled.

"Awwww,” she blushed, “Do you mind if we just sit here for a while. I want to soak in this moment.”

"Maybe we can get a new print? A new one to go along with our new memory?" he asked, "We can put it above our bed."

"I would like that Lex. I would like that a lot," she smiled.

"Me too," he pulled her close. They settled in for a long snuggle.

[19871997]

wyjo top contender for going directly into my pocket

[only-lonely-star]

ok so basically. after a particularly rough and unfair rumble with the socs, not only is dallas exhausted and sore but hes acting all soft and clingy. when he showed up at your door all he wanted was for his girl to hold him. but he is a mess and hes covered in dirt, blood and sweat so fem reader suggests that he takes a shower but hes like “im tired…” and she suggests that she gets in to help him (COMPLETELY DOMESTIC NOT IN A FREAKY WAY) and dallas is too tired and touch starved to complain so instead of a cocky remark he agrees and reader basically just helps him clean up and get to bed. is this too much?😭 im sorry if it is!!! u 100% do not have to do it!! but ilysm and thank you!!!❤️❤️❤️

🫧⋆｡˚ Bruised and Bare ˚ ｡⋆ 🫧

Warnings - Slight pain inflicted on Dallas. Mentions of blood and bruises. Showering together. Established relationship between fem!reader and Dallas Winston.

Summary - Dallas comes to you for some comfort after a rough fight with some Soc boys. You offer to join him in a hot shower to relax and unwind :)

Author’s Note - I love you too, Anon, thank you for your request! 😼😼 Let me just say… DAMN IT FEELS GOOD TO BE BACK TO WRITING. The post-meeting-C.-Thomas-Howell depression is so real and hit me so strong. This is a rather short one, I apologize. I fear if I didn’t get to these requests soon enough then I’d procrastinate even more. I have like four WIPs right now, they’ll be out soon y’all. I love you all SO much, enjoy!!!! 🙈🙈

Word Count - 830

⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄ ⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄ ⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄ ⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄

The sudden knock on your door hadn’t taken you by surprise as you sauntered towards the tall, wooden frame. It was late. Visitors at this hour usually resulted in your rebellious boyfriend, Dallas, looking for a safe haven to spend the night at. It was no surprise when you pulled the doorknob and saw Dallas with a look of defeat and exhaustion in his eyes.

He was hunched over, his shoulders slouched to a new level of low. The boy’s eyes revealed he had endured a tough night already, but the scattered bruises in shades of red and purple told you the full story. “Come on and let me in, just let me cool off for a minute,” he pleaded, his eyes lifeless.

“Oh, Dallas, you went looking for trouble again, didn’t you?” you spoke with playful sarcasm, pulling him inside by the stretched-out collar of his tee.

As Dallas stumbled inside, his boots left footprints of mud across the welcome mat. “No, actually,” he retorted with equal sarcasm, “I took a few blows from them Soc guys we saw that day in the park. I thought I could take three, but hell- I guess not.” Dallas glanced down at his raggedy shirt, one that couldn’t be saved now that it was ripped and torn in just about every place imaginable.

Frowning, you extended a hand to cup his cheek. He looked absolutely defeated - a rare sighting for such a well-known fighter. He didn’t budge at the gentle touch, instead, he stepped forward and snaked his hands to rest on your hips idly. “I’m sorry, baby, c’mere,” you beckoned, gently stroking your thumb across his cheek.

Dallas obeyed, closing the distance between the two of you. He rested his chin on your shoulder, allowing his hand to press yours firmly against his cheek. His lips formed into a small pout. “It hurts, baby. Everywhere. We can just have an easy night and uh…chill in bed, how ‘bout that?”

You grimaced, pulling away slightly. “You ought to shower first, Dal, you ain’t staining my sheets with all that blood… and dirt…and whatever the hell that is,” you pointed to a smear of bright green across his white tee.

The groan Dallas let out was something else. He slouched further and shook your hips vigorously. “Come onnnn, I’m tired. I can’t- I can’t get a hug from my girl? Is that right? I come crawling to you for a simple hug and I can’t even get that?”

His little sob story wasn’t convincing you for shit. “Dallas, don’t hand me that. I’ll even step in with you, that way all you have to do is stand there.”

He shrugged. This was a win-win. He didn’t have to do a thing and on top of that, he got to spend time with you. “Thank you,” Dallas replied sincerely. You could tell right away he meant it, he needed this gentle form of care.

_________________________________________________

As you twisted the knob to adjust the water’s temperature, Dallas analyzed the markings on his cheekbones and under-eye area. His lip seemed to be busted up pretty well, along with a dark purple rim around his left cheekbone. He grinned, “Looks good, don’t it?”

Scoffing playfully, you ushered him closer, “Just get in.” Dallas slowly but surely trudged his way into the tub, standing under the shower head. With another twist, the hot water splashed down from the nozzle, running down his bruised back. His eyes shut instinctively as he felt around the air in front of him for your body. Following him inside, you grabbed the spare white washcloth which hung from the rack located just across the sink. You enclosed yourself inside as you pulled the shower curtain shut.

“Get my back first?” he requested with a soft smile. The exhaustion written on his face was clear as day, but he maintained a sincere tone when speaking with you.

“Yeah, I got you.” His shoulder blades were tense and stiff. The purple spotting along the more tender parts of his back caused a wince from the both of you. Dallas was tough, he’d never admit he’s truly hurt.

“Careful-,” he hissed with clenched teeth, stiffening as he felt your hand pressing the washcloth onto the sensitive area between his shoulders.

“Does that hurt, baby?” you drew back, hovering the dripping fabric over his body.

Dallas sighed meekly. While most was done to his face, he still had sore spots scattered throughout his entire body. “I’m sore all over darlin’, that’s why I just wanted to lay down.”

Feeling your heart clench out of sympathy, you kissed the tender spots along his spine. The steam emitted from the shower head provided the moist heat needed to soothe his aching body, much like your love for him. He found himself able to relax and wind down in the solace of your presence. Who would have thought that even Dallas Winston needed some tender love and care after all?

THANK YOU FOR READING!! YOU ARE THE BEST! ❤️‍🩹

[theemporium]

thank you to the wyatt anon for choosing a prompt!🫶🏽weirdly enough, i struggled with it? but idk if that's just because this is my first wyatt piece or because uni has killed my brain so!! enjoy!!

prompt: standing on your tippy toes, frustrated you can't reach your lover's lips

.

“So, a little birdie tells me you have a boyfriend.” 

You lifted your head, tearing your eyes away from your laptop screen to give the boy on the bench a deadpan stare. 

“Did the same birdie remind you that you’re said boyfriend?” 

Wyatt beamed at your response, his cheeks already flushed from the drills they had been running through the practise session. He looked giddy, an expression that made your chest tight but confused you, nonetheless. He was usually focused when he was on the ice, even during training. 

“The birdie has spent all session gossiping about it,” Wyatt explained as he leaned against the barricade between the bench and the row of seats you were currently sitting on. “The boys are placing bets. First person to guess correctly gets a hundred bucks.” 

You raised your brows in amusement. “And how do they plan to confirm it?” 

“Pretty sure Tyler was just gonna straight up ask you,” Wyatt snorted. 

You hummed, your eyes narrowing in suspicion. “And did you place a bet?” 

Wyatt’s grin widened further. 

Your suspicion grew. “What did you do?” 

“I bet double if I could come over here and make you confess who your boyfriend is right now,” Wyatt announced happily, his eyes glimmering with a hint of mischief. “You’ve given yourself quite a rep, babe, you know? They think you’re impossible to break.”

You snorted in response. 

For someone with a job surrounding social media, you weren’t the most active person outside of it. Not on purpose, not really. Most of your time was spent on the Stars social media accounts that you didn’t really have time for your own, or really care about it enough. A little private Instagram account you posted on once in a blue moon was enough for you.

However, somewhere between being on an internship and being hired full time for the media team, you had grown closer to the boys on the team. It was hard not to when you spent so much of your time with them, travelling from city to city and wasting countless hours with them and a camera in hopes of a few decent shots you could salvage for a post. 

It also meant that because you were constantly poking them for answers to ridiculous questions, they felt the need to do the same to you. And it was through one of these ridiculous questions from Tyler that you accidentally let it slip that you had a boyfriend. And said boyfriend was someone you worked with.

And it had been the main topic of conversation all day, considering it took Tyler all of two minutes before blurting it to the rest of the locker room. 

“So who’s the winning choice?” 

“Eddie on the equipment team.” 

Your nose scrunched a little. “I’ve spoken to him, like, twice.” 

“Miro said he swore he saw you both have a moment,” Wyatt shrugged, pressing his lips together to hold back his laugh. 

You hummed, tilting your head as you watched the way he leaned closer over the barricade. “So, hot shot, how are you gonna get me to confess?” 

“It’s been over four hours since you last kissed me,” Wyatt told you, matter-of-factly. “I think we should change that?” 

You tried to bite back your smile. “Yeah?” 

“Gotta show them who’s your boyfriend after all, right?” Wyatt continued, trying to sound as casual and indifferent as he could. But you could see the way he gritted his teeth together.

“You jealous, Johnston?” You taunted as you placed your laptop to the side, standing up from your seat and walking towards the barricade where Wyatt was still standing. Despite normally being taller than you, the platform the seats were on made you taller than your boyfriend once as he leaned his head back to look up at you, even whilst he was still wearing skates.

“Pfft, no,” he scoffed but his blushing cheeks told another story. “I think you should kiss me so I can prove I’m not jealous.”

You shook your head fondly. “You’re ridiculously unsubtle.” 

“But still cute, right?” Wyatt retorted, trying to close the distance between you, only to huff in annoyance when he realised he wasn’t able to easily reach for your lips. “Get down here.” There was a small pause before he continued. “Please?”

You smiled, leaning down as you cupped his face in your hands and tilted his head back enough for you to kiss him without bumping your head against his visor. It was short and sweet but he still beamed in response when you pulled back.

“Still jealous?” 

“Nuh uh, I’m feeling pretty good,” Wyatt grinned. “Do you think the guys noticed or—” 

“SHE IS DATING JOHNNY?!” 

“THIS SHIT IS RIGGED, I WANT MY MONEY BACK!”

“SOMEONE TELL PAVS TO COME PICK UP HIS ROOKIE, HE’S A CHEAT!”

.

[diorsluv]

die for you masterlist

( diorsluv 2024 )

[ON HOLD!]

— social media, irl faceclaim ; lola tung

nhl + ntdp!2018 x platonic!figureskater!reader,

robertson brothers x fem!cousin!reader,

trevor zegras x fem!fwb!reader

other tags will be revealed once the complete series is done!

prologue

part 1: ( swear i couldn’t sleep a wink last night )

act i

part 2: ( no point in turning off the lights )

part 3: ( not the same without your head on my shoulders )

part 4: ( growing pains but i don’t wanna get older )

part 5: ( almost like we left it all on read )

part 6: ( couple feelings never laid to rest )

part 7: ( didn’t know that the party was over )

part 8: ( and it’s true that i need you here closer )

acts ii, iii, iv, and epilogue coming soon!

[starshine-hockey-girl]

I love it- great job!

“Don’t call me cupcake in public, I have a reputation!” with Tyler Seguin (1) - from m’s two year tumblrversary prompt list

9 months later and I’m finally fulfilling this request from @starshine-hockey-girl, though the original ask just got eaten by my inbox 😵‍💫 thankfully I remembered who this was for! hope you enjoy after all this time 🫶

- - -

Game 5: Minnesota Wild at Dallas Stars

Stars win, 4-0

You stood scrolling your phone postgame, shoulder leaned against the cool, painted cement block corridor wall deep in the hidden heart of American Airlines Center, across from the entrance to the families room as you waited for your boyfriend to exit the locker room. The corners of your lips automatically pulled upward as you pored over the Stars’ Instagram stories showcasing Tyler’s legendary pregame stretching and warmup routine, followed by the numerous goal celebrations throughout the night, including one of his own. You were so engrossed in your feed that you didn’t hear the sound of footsteps falling down the hall toward you.

“What are you smilin’ about over there?” a deep, unmistakable voice rang out a few yards in front of you.

You immediately stood up straight upon hearing Tyler, tucking your phone into the pocket of your playoff jacket and crossing your arms casually over your chest.

“You, Mr. Four-Goals-in-Five-Playoff-Games,” you retorted. He beamed, now just a few steps away.

“Do I get a kiss for that achievement?” he inquired, the way his one brow quirked above his playful honey brown eyes eliciting a tingle up your spine.

You tapped a finger against your chin and hummed, feigning contemplation. You were now toe-to-toe with your partner, though his frame towered over yours and melted you instantaneously.

“Well, I suppose,” you muttered, barely getting out the last syllable before he dipped his head down to capture your lips with his. The kiss lingered despite the bustle of the surrounding staff and fellow players and families, and you physically had to press a hand to his chest to bring it to a halt, though you wrapped your arms around his waist to keep him close.

“Easy, tiger,” you joked softly, making him giggle.

“Sorry, guess I’m a little keyed up,” he admitted.

“No wonder – you were amazing,” you praised. You pressed a chaste kiss to his neck, inhaling his familiar post-shower scent as you nestled your head against his. “I’m so proud of you,” you whispered against his skin.

He let out a low chuckle and squeezed you appreciatively.

“That’s what keeps me goin’,” he told you sincerely, kissing your cheekbone before you pulled away.

“How you feelin’?” you asked, your hand falling from his collar in favor of rubbing his back through his suit jacket.

He exhaled through pursed lips. “Tired,” he admitted, rolling his head from one side to the other. “Sore.”

You hummed in understanding but couldn’t resist the urge to tease.

“Don’t worry, I’ll go home and run you a bath, cupcake,” you told him, playfully patting his bearded cheek.

Tyler gasped dramatically, smirk on his lips, and he pried your fingers from his face.

“Don’t call me cupcake in public! I have a reputation!” he exclaimed, hand still clasped around yours.

You chuckled devilishly as he turned your hand to press a kiss to your wrist.

“But seriously, thanks for taking care of me, especially this time of year,” he said, allowing your joined hands to fall as he spoke. “Couldn’t do what I do without you.”

You smiled, squeezing his hand affectionately. “Nothing I’d rather do, babe,” you assured him softly. “See you at home.”

Tyler nodded, kissed you one last time, then, with a wink, disappeared down the hallway.

[annieqattheperipheral]

"money on the board" explained

if guys don't ever do it seen as "oh he doesn't care about the guys, the team" rookies are targeted but the more $ you're making the more $ you're expected to put up. gotta do it when you're playing hometown, former teams, family attending, big milestones

$ goes to holiday parties/outings together but can also be designated:

TRS = trainers

TD = team dinner

for the week after the season all the $ is used up partying for days

not just for game wins, can be for specific things:

GWG = game winning goal

"5 hits"

"single guys game" Saturday night games single guys encouraged to put up $ for going out after

fines (not mentioned in this vid but details here and here)

$ amounts:

NHL: min $500

AHL: $50, $75, but usually min $100

examples:

19-20 dallas stars home opener (seguin put up $9,850 after signing his contract for $9.85m)

usual game in an 82 game season

example of a guy's big milestone game (eg. 700th game, put up $700)

[sc0tters]

The Long Run | Roope Hintz & Miro Heiskanen

summary: when your brother leaves you unattended you end up at home with his teammates.

kinkmas: day one (threesome)

warnings: sexual themes, p in v (unprotected!), oral (m receiving!), spanking, swearing, degradation (mild!), swearing.

word count: 3.55k

authors note: we are kicking off kinkmas big and bold with a threesome. I’m gonna thank @itsnotgray for putting up with this and I hope it lived up to your expectations too! if you want to see the rest of the kinkmas masterlist you can find it all here!

The team Christmas party was always one to remember.

As Tyler’s younger sister you managed to score yourself an invite as you were in Dallas and Kate refused to let you spend the evening alone. The majority of the boys knew you well, you had been there for your brother through everything and when he got traded it was weirdly comforting even if you lived on the opposite side of the state.

For the most part the boys were good to you, little Seguin as they preferred to call you. Some cared enough to take an interest in your life too whilst others just sent you a nod, happy to see that you showed up. Then there were the last two of his teammates Miro Heiskanen and Roope Hintz, aka the unreadables. You weren’t sure how they felt about your presence as they’d just stare at you before they’d say a few phrases in Finnish before they’d leave you there just as confused as before they arrived.

Tonight was no different as the duo stood in the corner swirling their drinks as their eyes didn’t leave you. Maybe it was the fact that you had lost track of how much champagne you had drank two hours ago but you chugged the rest of your drink before you slammed it onto the countertop.

The boys smirked as they watched your red dress cling to your body as your tanned legs walked over to them “hey princess.” Miro smirked at the way your crossed your arms and stared up at them “you wanna tell me why you keep on staring at me?” You cocked your head making their smirks double in size as you were now falling into their game.

Roope smiled “you look real pretty tonight kid.” The compliment made your cheeks turn red as your strong facade quickly turned soft “I do?” You mumbled dropping your hands to your sides “don’t you think so Miro?” He elbowed the younger boy who had been staring.

It was your turn to smirk as you noticed his eyes hanging over the line of your breasts “really do.” Miro nodded as his eyes locked with yours “y/n c’mere!” Tyler called out making you roll your eyes.

Your brother stood in the middle of the room as he ushered you over telling Joel all about what you had gotten up to this year “that’s my cue boys.” You sent them a salute before you made your way over to your brother finding comfort under his arm.

That’s were you spent the majority of the rest of the night capturing the occasional glance from both Finnish boys. It made you laugh as you would do nothing more than send a smirk back in their direction “if you’ll excuse me.” Your voice was soft as you headed towards the bathroom “you enjoying his company?” Wyatt had started talking to you a little over ten minutes ago and as his crush on you was clear you let him made the advances that he seemed to want so badly.

You smirked as you looked at Roope who was leaning against the wall “you getting jealous?” You asked as you walked over to him nearly shutting the gap between you both “why should I be when you’re stood looking at me?” Roope stood up straight making the difference in height between you both larger.

It made your once amused expression turn to a scoff “I’m only here to go to the bathroom.” You mumbled tucking your hair behind your face ��it’s over there princess.” Roope pointed to the door behind you as he smiled “I knew that.” You mumbled rolling your eyes as you turned around to head to the bathroom.

Staring at yourself in the mirror you brought your hands through your hair as you thought about how Roope looked at you “fuck me.” You grumbled seeing the panty line that had formed in your dress.

For you it didn’t take long to decide to strip out of your white thong as you bunched it in your hand letting a smirk form on your face as you opened the door up to see Roope in the same spot that he had been before you left “didn’t take you long.” Roope smiled as he crossed his arms watching you come back over to him “I was gonna ask you to hold something for me.” Maybe it was the alcohol in your system but as Roope held his hand out to you dropped your panties into it.

His eyes went wide as he realised what they were “you’re playing a dangerous game princess.” Roope warned seeing clenching his hand “just wanted someone to hold them f’me to surprise Wy.” You lied through your teeth smiling as you wanted a reaction from him. This was truly you making the best out of your unfortunate dress choice “you’re gonna send me to an early grave Seguin.” He groaned making you laugh “maybe that’s all I wanted to do.” You smirked leaning forward to press a kiss against his cheek as your hands ran up his shirt “herra pelasta minut.” Roope mumbled to himself as he watched you walk off back into the party leaving your panties in his hand before he shoved them into his pants pocket.

You managed to avoid him as you stuck with Miro now flirting with the boy “do you really have to go?” People begin leaving the party and it was now the Finnish boys turns “don’t you want to go to Wyatt?” Miro teased as you Roope stood behind you both “you two are never gonna let me hear the end of that are you?” You laughed as you shook your head standing in the corner with the two Finnish boys as they grabbed their coats.

Roope shook his head “was gonna ask if you were sure you wanted to stay with him?” Wyatt stood smiling as he saw you with the boys “I think we could have a great night.” You nodded with a smirk hinting to him about the conversation you had earlier in the night “I could give you a reason to never wear those panties ever again.” Roope’s voice was rough as his breath fanned against the shell of your ear.

Miro watched the conversation unfold as your eyes sparkled “both of you?” It was something that never came across your mind “you want both of us pretty girl?” Miro spoke up again making you nod “then let’s get you out of here before Tyler notices that you’re gone.” Roope took his jacket off as he slid it over your shoulders even as the Dallas winter weather wasn’t that cold.

They were quick to usher you into their Uber leaving you in the middle of the two boys as you all piled into the back of the car “you’re so fucking beautiful.” Miro ran his hand over your knee as you turned to him with a smile “how pretty?” Your tongue ran over your lower lip causing his other hand to cup your cheek.

As his lips went to yours Roope couldn’t help but feel himself grow jealous. The older Fin brushed your hair behind your neck so he could kiss below your ear “be a good girl.” He mumbled softly nibbling at your lobe.

It made you moan against Miro as both boys found their hands on your body. The Uber driver couldn’t help but look to the rear view mirror as it almost seemed the start of a porno. The way your fingers were brought to your lips as you could still feel Miro’s on yours was enough to make both boys feel this sense of bliss.

Roope was grateful that he had put his house into the drop off location as Miros house was another fifteen minutes away “we are close.” You clenched at the drivers words as both hockey players began nipping at your neck “t-thanks sir.” You stammered as your hands went to Roope’s hair tugging at the ends.

The boys got you out of the car quicker than you had gotten into it as Roope pulled out a hundred dollar note from his pocket leaving it as a tip for the driver. You three made it to the door in time for Miro to push you against the wall “is this what you wanted all along princess?” He asked as his thumb drew circles against the end of dress brushing against your thigh “yes M.” You whimpered as you watched Roope fish through his pocket’s quick to grab his keys as he unlocked the door “c’mon you two.”

You gasped as you walked into Roope’s house smiling as he turned on the lights. It was a bold move from you as you reached back to undo the zipper of your dress “Hani don’t you dare.” Roope warned making you smirk as you moved to grab at the straps of your dress.

As the straps came down so did your dress and both boys swore that they forgot how to breathe in that moment “come and get me boys.” Your voice was soft as you spun around and stepped out of your dress and began walking up the stairs.

Your bare ass made them melt as they watched you reach to unclip your bra before it joined the trail of clothes that were on the stairs finally prompting the boys to follow you as Roope took the first step closer to you “you’re playing a fine line Seguin.” He warned watching you smirk as you got to the top of the steps “come make me pay then.” Both boys were going to truly make you regret that statement.

The first memory you had of Roope’s bedroom was how your knees were pressed against his mattress “what are we gonna do with her?” Miro asked as you propped yourself up on your elbows “come get a taste M.” You smirked spreading your legs giving him a view of your soaked cunt.

Roope shook his head stopping in the boy from following your requests “you think you could get away with how you’ve acted all night?” The older of the two boys laughed “turn around and get on your knees.” He ordered making you comply as you stared at the mirrors that lined the other wall of his room.

Miro walked to the other side of the bed as he smirked at you “think it’s about time we finally shut these pretty lips up.” Miro suggested as he brushed his fingers along your jaw “baby you want his cock?” Roope was far more unfiltered as he grabbed at your hips “fuck me like you would one of those puck bunnies.” You watched how Miros groaned hearing those vulgar words leave your lips.

When you spoke to him like that Miro couldn’t deny you of that request as he undid the zip of his pants letting the bulge show causing your mouth to salivate “you want this?” Miro asked with a smirk as he watched his teammate raise his hand to slap your ass “fuck!” Your moan was cut off as Miro slid his cock into your mouth.

His head dropped forward as his hands gripped at your hair “how many do we think she deserves?” Roope soothed the area of skin as he let out a dry laugh “two for each hour she fucking decided to tease us for.” Miro stared down as you batted your eyelashes looking back up at him “what do we think that Tyler would feel seeing his sister like this?” Roope asked as he slapped your ass again gripping at the piece of skin.

You moaned as your hands found themselves on Miros thighs as you swirled your tongue around his cock “watching your mascara run down those pretty cheeks?” Miro grunted forcing your head to take more of his cock as you breathed through your nostrils as Roope slapped your ass for the fifth time.

The area was tender as Roope finally moved his attention to where you wanted it as his fingers ran over your slit “she liked this.” Miro felt himself begin to start fucking your face as your throat constricted around his cock. It made Roope laugh “yeah cause she’s our dirty little puck bunny ain’t she?” Thinking about the words you once used made your cunt clench as Roope thrusted his fingers into your core “such a wet girl.” He cooed making you whine.

Those sensations made Miro grunt “fuck baby I’m gonna come.” He moaned as he grew close “gonna swallow all of it?” Miro’s question made you moan as Roope teased your clit.

Your head bobbed his cock as your lips were tight around it “d-don’t stop.” You might as well been a starved woman as you hollowed your cheeks out milking his cock as Miro came “shit baby right there!” Miro’s grip on your hair loosened as his warm release coated the inside of your mouth.

As he pulled out a string of his come landed on your lower lip which Miro didn’t hesitate to wipe off with his thumb before he placed his calloused finger on your clit “swallow that and be a good girl for me.” His voice was soft as he began to move his finger in a circular motion. You let your tongue fall out of your mouth showing that you had listened to the younger boys request “look at you finally being a good girl for us.” Roope muttered as he pulled his fingers from your cunt making you whine “shut up and take what I give you.” He warned tilting your head up so he could give you your first kiss from him of the night.

Roope already felt his cock throb against his pants but tasting another man on your tongue made it grow more uncomfortable as it soon felt like he’d be losing a button on that pair “who do you want first?” In the midst of your horniness and desperateness to reach your first orgasm of the night maybe you didn’t notice that it was actually a trick question “you Roope.” You whimpered as Miro leaned down to kiss you.

You note how much softer he was than his older teammate as he pinched your chin “have her ride you.” Roope ordered making you pull away from Miro as you frowned “you want me then you better earn it princess.” The weight of the mattress dipped as Miro crouched onto it.

His hands brushed through your hair as your fingers went to his shirt so you could undo the buttons “eager little girl.” Roope smirked as he undid his shirt too.

The moment of how you landed up straddling Miro’s torso as Roope gripped his cock running his hand along the underside of it “wanna be a good girl?” Roope cooed as you nodded “get on him then.” Watching you grab Miro’s cock teasing your clit made all three of you moan “fuck!” You cried sinking down on his dick as his fingers helped guide your hips down.

Roope didn’t wait long to tap the head of his cock on your lips “open up.” His words were surprisingly soft as Miro let you adjust to his size “so big.” Your moan was muffled as Roope’s cut you off “this mouth is fucking dangerous.” He grunted tugging your hair at your scalp.

Miro began thrusting into your cunt as he lifted your hips up and down “you like us fucking you like this don’t you?” Roope laughed seeing your mascara smudge as your eyes watered “think she’s never been fucked like this before.” Miro’s cock throbbed from inside of you as your cunt clenched around him “such a tight little pussy.” His words made you moan around Roope’s cock as he reached out to lightly hit your clit.

Your hands gripped at Miro’s thighs as you began grinding in an attempt to create more friction “is that what you wanted?” Roope’s fingers tightened in your hair causing your eyes to lock onto his “for us to ruin you for every other boy in your life?” The older boy had to laugh at how you nodded “can’t hear you princess.” Roope was pushing you as he forced you to take more of his cock making your throat feel raw.

Tears clouded your eyes as you nodded “yes fuck!” The words came muffled as you choked on his cock “it’s too easy with you.” Miro and Roope seemed to bounce off of each other “this cunt is heaven.” Miro reminded you that he was behind you as your eyes fluttered.

The boys both grew closer to their highs as one watched your cunt swallow his cock and the other got to feel your tongue swirl around his “you see how good you make us feel?” Roope threw you off as his hand was soft against your cheek in clear contrast to the other that was still in your hair “letting us use you like this.” Your cunt clenched as you moaned feeling your skin feel like it was on fire “is this how you wanted us to be all along?” It was clear that there was a sense of teasing in his words but you still whined as your legs began to shake.

Miro grunted from behind you “think she’s close.” His fingers stayed on your clit pressing against the sensitive nub “you want to come?” You nodded making the boy slide his cock out of your mouth “fucking beg me for it then.” Roope watched as your hand replaced where your mouth once was.

You moaned as your lips fell open “fuck!” You gasped feeling Miro’s hand grab at your ass “that’s not good enough.” Roope grabbed at your jaw “please let me come.” You whined letting your lips form a pout “I’ll be yours I promise.” You begged locking your eyes with him.

Roope nodded sliding his cock back into your mouth “let her come.” All three of you felt yourselves growing closer to your eyes as the walls soaked up the sounds of your moans and the sounds of skin slapping “god milk my cock with your pretty little cunt.” Miro grunted as his eyes screwed shut.

Pleasure fell over the both of you as you came “keep using your pretty little mouth.” Roope cooed watching your face contort as your cunt clenched around his cock bringing his orgasm on “fucking hell!” Miro groaned as he dug his nails into your hips.

Your walls of your core were coated with his release “get her off and hold her legs up.” Roope ordered as both you and Miro slowed down trying to recover from your orgasms “gonna let me come on your cunt too?” Roope asked making you nod repeatedly.

Miro sat up as he had you lean against his back as his cock pressed against your back as he made your legs sit on either side of his “you want to be a good girl for us?” Miro’s voice was coarse as you watched Roope slip his cock out again before he wrapped his hand around it now getting himself to that high.

You moaned pressing your fingers against your clit as you mixed your and Miro’s releases over the area “always.” You cried as Miro pinched your nipples between his fingers “such a pretty girl.” Miro cooed kissing his lips against your shoulder.

Roope groaned “fuck I’m gonna make a mess.” His words made you chew at the inside of your cheek “shit Roo!” You moaned watching his cock spurt his warm release over your slit as you used your hands to spread the sides of your cunt open.

It made feel like you were on cloud nine as his cock pressed against your clit “want me to fuck this into you?” Roope laughed as you caught your lip between your teeth nodding “you’re right about this cunt.” Roope was bigger than Miro as he bottomed you out making you jump “fuck!” You swore as you were still sensitive.

Roope’s lips caught yours as he continued to slowly thrust his cock into your cunt “making sure this all stays in there pretty girl.” His words were husky as the boys kept you in there all night.

Weeks had gone by without seeing either boy in the same way again besides for the few smiles that were shared after games. Truthfully you thought that it was only going to be one night of fun. But as you stood there waiting for your timer to go off you couldn’t help but wonder seeing PREGNANT appear on the test, who the hell is the father?

[wyattjohnston]

weird... he's gonna fit right in 💚

[jo-speaks]

🎂 you turn me on so easily -- with wyatt johnston please

warnings: kissing, brief grinding

He had been insatiable all night. 

The way your nightgown draped over your body had Wyatt’s pupils turning into hearts, throbbing out cartoon style each time you walked past him. 

You finally found comfort in the natural curve of his laying body, finding the warmth radiating off of him magnetic as you joined him on the couch. 

“What are we thinking for movie night? Horror or rom-com?” You asked, opening Netflix on the TV.

Wyatt shrugged off your question, tucking his face into the crook of your neck. You giggled at his actions, squirming at the feeling of his breath hitting your skin. 

“Wy, please. This is meant to be a cute, romantic movie night.” You teased, not missing the way his lips began kissing at your neck.

“Nah, I’m good.” He mumbled, continuing his actions. 

As much as you wanted to deny him, you couldn’t. It was hard not to indulge him when his hands began wandering over the silk cloth of your gown. 

“What’s got you so worked up, hm? You’re acting hornier than usual.

His answer was silent, opting to turn his sweet kisses into soft bites as he sucked marks onto your warm skin. It had shocked you that he had yet to slip his hand under your clothes, but just as the thought entered your head, his hand found its way to toy with the lace of your panties. 

“What can I say? You turn me on so easily.”

You smiled at his movements, pressing your hips against his semi, giggling as he tugged you closer to him. “Forget the movie then?”

[starshine-hockey-girl]

Shameless self promotion on the holiday

See You Again- Tyler Seguin Stand Alone

Summary- When Addy meets Tyler through mutual friends, it's attraction at first sight. Tyler, however, cannot shake the sense of deja vu.

Word Count- 10.5K (sorry)

Warnings- alcohol use, public sex, SMUT, discussion of slut shaming

@fallinallincurls @newlibrary @penstxgal1968 @princessphilly @laurenairay @mattyseggy1991 @horsesandhockeyplayers

August 2022

Addy checked her reflection in the mirror and adjusted her top as she listened to her friend, Gina, go over the details for the evening. She was half-listening, as usual, when Gina mentioned that Tom may have a friend drop by the bar. "Wait, what?" she whined, "Gina, this isn't a set-up, right?"

"No, Addy, I swear-I don't even know the guy's name," Gina responded. "Show me what you're going to wear."

Addy sent the snap.

"No, absolutely not," Gina chided, "Let go of the athleisure wear. Wear a skirt at least."

Addy rolled her eyes, "I will compromise on a nice pair of shorts and crop top. It’s hotter than hell."

LATER THAT EVENING- INWOOD TAVERN-DALLAS

Addy walked up to the bar and leaned up against it. "Hey," she called to the seasoned blonde bartender, "Can I get a drink?" She was casually dressed in a matching black gingham crop top and shorts. A diamond pendant adorned her neck. Her curly brown hair had been tossed in a loosely styled up-do to keep it off her neck. The August Texas heat was still oppressive at night and Addy’s focus was remaining as cool as possible.

The muscular man standing next to her laughed, "Good luck with that. I've been trying to get a beer for ten minutes."

Addy glanced at him before turning back to the bartender, "It's the watch. She hates flashy watches."

Tyler looked down at his watch then back at the petite brunette by his side. "Isn't that some sort of watch discrimination. What did my watch ever do to her?"

Addy turned to face him. She took note of the fitted t-shirt and casual shorts he wore. His brown hair was slicked back and his arms were covered in tattoos. The neatly trimmed beard completed the frat boy look. "It's not the watch, but the wearer. Usually those watches come attached to annoying frat boys who demand immediate service and leave shitty tips."

Tyler's eyebrows raised, "Definitely not a frat boy."

"Well, if you look like a frat boy, dress like a frat boy, you can't be shocked if she treats you well- like a frat boy." she teased. "Let me guess," she continued, "you also flashed a black AMEX to start a tab."

His eyes narrowed slightly, "And?"

She smiled, "It completed the 'I am going to be asshole' vibe thing you got going on. What are you drinking 'Mr. I am not a frat boy'?"

"At this point I will take any cold beer," he said in confusion.

Addy yelled again, "Tess, give me my usual and the poor man a beer. Put it on my tab."

Tess nodded and poured the drinks. When she sat down the drinks, she eyed Tyler suspiciously, "You vouching for him?"

Addy turned and gave Tyler the full body scan, "Yes, at least temporarily. Don't fuck it up, okay?"

"Tyler, by the way," he said casually.

"Oh and the asshole trifecta is complete," she winked as she took her drink.

They sat in an amenable silence before Tyler cleared his throat, "So are you meeting friends here or do you just like drinking alone in dive bars?"

"Meeting friends for drinks. You?" She turned to him.

"Same," he craned his head toward the door which just opened.

"Addy!" Gina called as she walked into the dimly lit bar, "Why do you always pick the grungiest bar in town to meet?"

Addy turned with a smile, "Don't knock the bar. You'll piss off Tess."

Tyler interjected, "Yeah, you don’t want to don't piss her off."

Gina raised an eyebrow towards Addy. She was greeted with a shoulder shrug.The duo greeted each other with a hug. Gina looked around the bar that looked like not a thing had been changed in at least forty years.

"So making friends already?" Regina asked jovially.

"Gina, this is “not a frat boy” Tyler. Tyler, this is Gina," Addy answered.

Tyler stretched his hand out, "Pleasure."

"Seggy," Tom called from the door.

Tyler turned, "Monty!"

The two embraced in a bro hug. "I see that you have met my fiance, Gina, and this is her friend, Addy," Tom declared.

Tyler touched Addy on the arm, "You ready for another round?"

"Sure, tell Tess to add it to my tab," she called as they moved over to the well-worn couch. He gave her body an appreciative glance as he returned with the drinks, "I tried to open my own tab, but she wouldn't do it. Strangest bartender ever."

She scooted over to make room for him. Quickly they were engrossed in conversation about Addy's job as an event planner. She casually asked Tyler about his job and he blinked slowly. "You're kidding, right?" he laughed.

"Kidding about what?" she smiled.

"I play hockey- for the Dallas Stars…" he stammered.

"Oh, I don't follow hockey too closely. I mean- I am aware of them as a team, but not the individual players," she explained.

There was an awkward pause as Tyler contemplated her words. It wasn't the fact that she was unaware of who he was, it was that she seemed thoroughly unaffected by the knowledge. Tyler came to the realization that he was staring at her face. It wasn't a particularly gorgeous face, but was naturally pretty. Her presence felt comfortable and oddly familiar. She snapped her fingers to get him out of his trance. "Hey, Not-Frat-Boy, we are going to play pool. Do you want co-ed or men against women?"

Tyler thought quickly, "Co-ed,"

Addy poked him playfully in the chest, "Try to keep up with me, okay?

Tom and Tyler played a quick game of "Rock, Paper, Scissors" to determine who would break. Addy gave Tyler a wink and a smile when he won.

He made a grand gesture of bending over and bowing and indicating she should take the first shot. He walked to the opposite end of the table as she took her stick, leaned over and took the break shot. He licked his lips unconsciously as he was given a clear view of her cleavage. As the balls spread across the table, she blew him a flirtatious kiss as two balls sank. Tyler smiled when she did not sink another ball with her second shot. He stood behind her as she waited for Tom to take his shot. He whispered in her ear, "He's a great attorney, but a horrible shot." Addy felt the hairs on her arm stand up as his breath hit her neck. She shifted her weight back and forth and turned to look at him. She stared momentarily. Her gaze went to his lips. She blinked and willed her heart to stop racing. She thought of what his beard would feel like if he kissed her.

"Seggy, you're up" Tom laughed as Tyler stood, leaning on his stick, staring at Addy's neck. He imagined his mouth on the where the smooth skin of her neck met her shoulder, sucking softly.

"Snap out of it," he murmured to himself before leaning up his shot. When Addy walked away to the jukebox, the movement of her hips distracted him and the shot fizzled.

He walked up behind her and leaned over her shoulder as she made her selections. "Going old school, huh?" he joked as she made her selections.

"Can't go wrong with some Miley, " she said, laughing as the song began. "This brings back some memories." Tyler watched as she danced around the pool table between her shots, sinking a ball with each stroke as she mouthed the words.

Tyler had a memory emerge from the depths of his brain. It was fuzzy but he could feel his body respond- pulse quickened, heart rate elevated and breath slightly shallow. He was kissing a girl. She smelled like flowers and wore what he assumed was a cubic zirconia pendant around her necklace. It fell delicately on her clavicle . When they paused for breath, she smiled at him.

"Tyler," he thought he heard as he struggled to place the memory "Tyler, it's your shot."

"Huh?" He said- momentarily confused as Tom directed him to the pool table. “Oh, yeah,” he blushed.

Gina and Tom giggled as they watched Addy and Tyler get sucked into their own heads as they stared at each other, tanking their pool game. Tyler snapped out of his thoughts. He took another bad shot and promptly sunk the cue ball.

"Who wants another round?" they called as they left Addy and Tyler in the pool room, without waiting for a response.

Tyler walked up to Addy and took the stick from her hand, “Sorry about that. Normally I am much better at pool. Guess I got a little distracted.”

Addy felt her face flush and started to fan herself with her hand,"Did it get hot in here? I need some air." She turned and walked to the exit to the small patio. She pushed the door open and took a deep breath. She paced the length of the patio and ran her fingers through her hair. The desire to take Tyler's face between her hands and kiss him overwhelmed her. She was then struck by the sense of deja vu. When he emerged from the bar carrying drinks, he stopped short when she turned to face him. She stood with one hip popped up and both hands on her hips. He crossed the patio to where she stood. Her expression was almost defiant. "Are you going to kiss me or what?" she declared. When he hesitated, she took a step toward him, took his face in her hands and kissed him hard.

Tyler felt the memory come back into complete focus and the realization hit him. He stopped the kiss and asked breathlessly, "Is Addy a nickname or something?"

"Short for Addison," she replied.

His eyes opened wider, "Have you ever been to Toronto?"

"Yeah, when I was 15." she stammered.

He pressed, "Maybe to an amusement park named Canada's Wonderland?

She stepped back, "Yeah"

He stepped forward "Spend time with a hockey team there?"

She looked at him, "Yeah, with a boy named….."

Her hand went to her mouth, "Nooooo"

He nodded his head up and down.

She gasped, "You're Tyler from Toronto? No fucking way!"

He smiled, "Yep-all grown up"

She squatted low and looked up at him before crossing to him, "Kiss me again."

He did and the memory came flooding back to her. Their bodies crashed together as they kissed, the muscle memory of their first make out session came back and he pushed her against the wall. “Addison from Dallas," he moaned, "I finally found you."

SUMMER 2007

Addison stood next to her friend, Juliana, in line to the Drop Tower. Juliana eyed the ride nervously as the line inched toward the loading zone. In front of them a group of ten players from a hockey team stood and joked loudly. They were enjoying a celebratory trip to the amusement park in honor of their recent championship victory. Juliana and Addison were at the front of the group from the Prestonwood Christian Academy choir. The two girls had become fast friends during Juliana’s year of study abroad in Dallas. They bonded over boys, hockey and mocking the popular girls in their class.

Juliana poked Addison in the ribs and nodded towards the tall blonde with a goofy grin on her face. Addison looked up at him and shook her head softly. Of course Juliana set her eyes on the tallest person she could find. The girl definitely had a type-tall, blonde and cute. The line inched forward and Addison locked eyes with the lanky brunette standing next to the blonde. He gave a shy smile before turning away. The blonde noticed and gave him a shove back into Addison. “Make a move Shy Ty,” the Big Rig joked.

"I'm…I'm sorry," Tyler stammered softly before he turned and slammed the blonde on the arm.

Addison gave him a smile and mouthed, “It’s okay,” before turning to Juliana.

The group landed at the loading zone together. The ride attendant shouted at the group of teens, "You four- stand here." Juliana and Addison stood in their assigned circle with Jamie and Tyler. Juliana looked up at the ride, "Addison, if I die in Canada, my mom is going to kill you."

The blonde looked down at the diminutive girl with jet black hair and laughed, "Where are you from?"

Julia smiled broadly, "Originally from Brazil, but we’re from Dallas. I'm Juliana and this is Addison. Are you from Toronto?"

"I'm Jamie and this is Seggy," the blonde elbowed Tyler in the ribs, "We're from Brampton, outside of Toronto."

"It's actually Tyler," he corrected. He looked Addison in the face and she smiled at him. He felt his stomach flip flop.

"Tell me Tyler- are you a wimp? she teased.

He looked confused, "Uhhhhh, what do you mean?"

"I mean can you handle these rides?" she laughed, "I am stuck with Wimpy McGee."

"Yeah, I can handle these rides," he grinned.

"Good," she exclaimed as the attendant directed them to the car. "Sit next to me so I don't have to hear her scream."

Tyler's eyebrows raised, "Okay." He watched her hop into her seat and start swinging her legs back and forth playfully.

After they were harnessed in, she gave him a big grin right before the ride took off, “Here we go, Tyler.” Addison laughed as the car ascended two hundred feet in the air and nervousness spread across Tyler's face, "I thought you said you weren't a wimp?"

"I'm not- I swear," he whined.

"Need to hold my hand?" she said softly and held out her hand to him.

"Yeah," he grabbed it right before the car dropped twenty one stories in a free fall.

Addison reluctantly let go of his hand when the ride attendant came to unharness them. She jumped off the ride and waited for Tyler. When he walked up with a sheepish grin, "I swear I am not a wimp on the other rides. The height on this one gets me."

Addison leaned in and whispered, "Your secret is safe with me." She looked over to Julia who was engrossed in conversation with Jamie. "I guess we are officially ride-buddies now,” she joked as she tilted her head toward Jamie and Juliana who were shamelessly flirting with each other. Addison rolled her eyes as Jamie directed the group towards the Klockwerks ride. “That’s not that scary, dude,” Addison stated once they arrived. Both Tyler and Jamie positioned themselves to be in the inside car position. As the ride began to spin, the force of the ride pulled Juliana and Addison into their sides. Jamie artfully put his arm around Juliana and pulled her tighter. Tyler sat stiffly beside Addison as the speed increased. Eventually she put her hand on his thigh and pushed to create some separation. Tyler’s eyes flashed down to Addison’s hand and then shut tightly. He thought to himself, “For the love of God, stay down, stay down,” as he willed himself not to feel any effects of Addison’s physical proximity. He said a silent prayer of thanksgiving as they exited the ride without an erection popping up.

The group flip-flopped between Team Scaredy-Cat and Team Dare-Devil deciding on which rides to ride. With each one, Addison and Tyler stood closer and closer together in line. He passionately argued that Texas didn't have actual hockey. She questioned "Oh yeah, when is the last time the Leafs have won a cup? The Stars?" Tyler objected and Addison hit him with, "Did the Leafs even make the playoffs this year? The Stars made it.” Tyler rolled his eyes and Addison playfully poked his chest. "Admit defeat," she chided as he smiled down at her, “I’m going to make you a Stars fan if it’s the last thing I do.

He bent down and laughed, “It will be a cold day in hell before I root for the Dallas Stars.” Addison blinked as his face was inches from hers. Thankfully the ride attendant ushered them to the ride.

Somewhere between the Go-Kart Racing ride and Behemoth roller coaster, Tyler made his move and went for the hand grab. Addison simply looked down at their joined hands and back up at Tyler and smiled. Tyler’s inner dialogue of “Stay Cool, be calm- it’s just a girl. Holy shit- it’s a girl and she is letting me hold her hand” simmered under the surface.

When the foursome turned the corner and Juliana saw the tall roller coaster, she simply said, “Nope, nope, nope- I am not riding that, Miss Addison.” Jamie saw his opportunity and took it, “We can go do the swings again. You liked those.” The swings were on the other side of the park and would give him a solid hour of alone time with Juliana. Tyler also did the mental math and glanced at Addison to gauge her reaction.

Addison shrugged her shoulders and pulled Tyler towards the roller coaster. “Y’all have fun. We’ll meet you at the food court in an hour,” she called back to her friend, Juliana, who stood in a bundle of excitement and nerves. Addison turned abruptly and yelled to Juliana, “Don’t forget your PCA character!” When Juliana’s mouth dropped open, Addison laughed, “Bye!” She pulled Tyler with such force that he could barely keep up. “Come on Tyler, there’s barely any line!” she screamed as she ran in front of him. She dropped his hand as they raced up the steps. Tyler slowed his pace slightly when he realized letting her pass allowed him to watch her ass as she climbed.

When they reached the top of the stairs, they were greeted by a ride attendant. “The ride’s not quite open yet,” the young man said, “How did you get up here?” In their excitement, Tyler and Addison had missed the sign that the ride was temporarily closed. Todd, the attendant looked around, “I should send you back down to wait, but we’ll open it up in about fifteen minutes. If you promise to not bother anything, I’ll let you stay up here.”

They looked at each other and smiled, then looked at Todd, “We won’t touch anything.”

Addison squealed once Todd left. She looked at Tyler who nodded. They both spoke at once

Addison- “We get dibs on the front seat.”

Tyler- “We get to be alone for fifteen minutes”

Addison laughed while Tyler blushed, “Well, there’s that too- added bonus” They looked around the ride loading area before Addison pulled out her iTouch. Tyler watched in silence as she pushed buttons. “You like to dance, Tyler?” she asked as music started playing. Miley Cyrus - See you again - With Lyrics The music started and she started to dance. A wide grin spread across his face as she grabbed his hand and pulled him towards him. “What? Hockey boys don’t dance?” she teased. “You know there isn’t anyone here. You can risk looking stupid and dance.” She dropped his hand and started dancing and singing. “I've got a way of knowin' when somethin' is right. I feel like I must have known you in another life. 'Cause I felt this deep connection when you looked in my eyes. Now I can't wait to see you again” Addison reached for his hand again and he readily took it. He sang with her, “The last time I freaked out, I just kept lookin' down. I st-st-stuttered when you asked me what I'm thinkin' 'bout. Felt like I couldn't breathe, you asked what's wrong with me. My best friend Lesley said, "Oh she's just being Miley" Tyler twirled her around the loading area with ease. When the song stopped he pulled her back and she crashed into his chest. Their faces were inches from each other. Their combined heart rates were off the charts and their chests heaved to settle their breathing.

Addison looked into Tyler’s eyes and willed his lips to move closer. They didn’t budge. He pushed a strand of hair that had crossed over into her eyes back. Internally, the lyrics of “Kiss the Girl” raced into his thoughts, “Yes, you want her. Look at her, you know you do. Possible she wants you too. There is one way to ask her. It don't take a word. Not a single word. Go on and kiss the girl” The mental image of the small, red crab singing and dancing raced front and center of his mind. Tyler laughed at the absurdity of it. Addison flinched ever so slightly and pulled back. Tyler knew immediately that he had blown his shot.

Addison dropped his hands and walked over the far wall where the loading zone to the front car was located. She placed her back against the wall and slowly slid down to sit. She didn’t look up when she felt Tyler approach and sit next to her. They didn’t speak for a long time. Tyler checked his watch, “They should be opening it up soon.” Addison nodded in affirmation. He moved his hand to the outside of his thigh and she felt it graze her skin. She glanced down and then back at his face. She smiled and grabbed his hand. Their fingers intertwined together. Addison moved slightly to her left and rested her head on his shoulder.

She fumbled for words, “Fun fact- we are both named after cities in Texas.” He laughed and said, “What?”

“Yep, there is a Tyler, Texas and an Addison, Texas too,” she said quietly, “They are not very close together.”

“That’s too bad,” he replied. She squeezed his hand and he swore that he felt butterflies in stomach. “So tell me about Dallas.”

He looked at her as her face lit up and she started chattering away. The sound of the slow drawl of her voice hypnotized him. Suddenly the idea of Dallas, Texas, was the most fascinating subject on earth. She rambled until they noticed that the loading area had filled with other riders. Tyler frowned as she stopped talking and stood up to climb into the front roller coaster car. She held out her hand and he took it. The smile returned to his face. “Maybe I’ll go to Dallas one day,”

She turned to laugh, “Maybe you’ll play for the Stars one day. I mean you should dream big,Tyler.”

Once they were both securely harnessed for the ride, Tyler grabbed her hand again. She looked at him through her eyelashes and then looked away. Addison was unsure if it was the thrill of the ride that made her heart race or the thrill of the boy next to her. As the clickety-clack of the roller coaster filled the air, she summoned her courage while the car moved higher and higher on top of the hill. She turned to Tyler right before the car went over the summit, “Are you going to kiss me or what?” Tyler turned to her with a surprised look before they fell into the freefall.

When the car came to a complete stop, both of them scrambled to get out of the car, for very different reasons. Addison ran past the crowd that made it to the exit before her. Tyler followed behind her. They raced down the steps and Tyler called her name, “Addison- wait up!” She had no intention of waiting for him. The look of shock when she asked him about kissing her had said everything she needed to know. She thought to herself, “It’s almost four now. I just have to find a place to hang out until we leave at nine. No biggie.”

Addison was completely lost in thoughts when she felt his hand on her arm, pulling her to a stop. He grabbed her hand and held it as he guided her past the ride exit. Tyler pulled her into a corner by the restroom. “Why are you running away from me?” he said breathlessly, “Is this about your question?”

Her eyes flashed up and then down and she nodded her head yes.

Tyler groaned loudly and bent over, putting his hands on his knees, “Girls are weird.”

He stood and crossed to her, “I do want to kiss you. It’s just that….. that” He hesitated before he sputtered, “I’ve never kissed a girl. I don’t know how.” He blushed as she smiled and laughed, “Don’t laugh at me, Addison.” She walked to him, put her hand on his neck and pulled his head so she could reach his face. She smiled and kissed him.

Her lips pressed against his and she sensed his tenson and hesitation. After a beat, she felt them relax and return the kiss. Their lips separated and then came back together. There was an awkward dance of head tilts, noses that collided and teeth clashing together. Each kiss became more intentional, more passionate and more intense. They found their rhythm of a series of kisses followed by a pause for two breaths and another series of kisses.

“Get it Seggy,” a loud voice called out. One of Tyler’s teammates stood at a distance, holding the hand of Reagan, a girl from Addison's choir. It seemed like international romance had blossomed for multiple couples.

Tyler broke the kiss and looked up. He smiled at his teammate before he looked at Addison. He searched her face for a sign of how to proceed. She grinned and rested her forehead against his chest. He wrapped his arms around her as she whispered, “Tell me when they leave.”

He whispered, “They’re gone.” as the duo turned the corner. She looked up at him with a goofy grin that he returned. “Ummm, we should probably go find Big Rig and Juliana,” he pushed her hair away from her face, “It’s time to meet up with them and I am starving.”

“Big Rig?” she questioned.

“Jamie,” he smiled, “We call him Big Rig because well, he is big and built like a Mack truck.”

“So you don’t want to talk about what just happened?” she asked.

“Do we need to talk about it?” he asked in return.

“Did you like it?” she asked.

“Yeah,” he replied breathlessly.

“Me too,” she blushed.

“Let’s walk there. Maybe we’ll beat them to the poutine shop and we can do it again,” he spoke as he took her hand to guide her. He laughed when she questioned what the hell poutine was. Given the unspoken enticement of potential kisses, Tyler and Addison made it to the meeting place early. They were taking a post-kiss breath when Jamie and Juliana walked up, holding hands. The two sets of friends exchanged knowing looks before joining the line. Tyler stood behind Addison as she looked at the menu. He leaned over her shoulder, “You don’t have poutine in Dallas? That might be a dealbreaker.”

She turned to look at him, “No poutine, but we have nachos and tacos al pastor which makes up for it.” She ordered her food and dug in her pocket for her money. She picked up each coin and bill and examined it closely in confusion. Tyler resisted the temptation to laugh and quickly ordered his poutine while she searched for the right denomination. He handed his debit card to the cashier to pay. Her head swiveled around, “You didn’t have to pay for my food. I have money.”

“Clearly, you do. You don’t know which is which, but you have money,” he mocked.

“It’s not my fault y’all have funny colored money,” she pouted

“You’re cute when you pout,” he laughed as he guided her to the waiting area. Addison smiled and blushed as he snuck a kiss on the cheek while they waited. Tyler took her reaction as a sign and went in for a full kiss.

The foursome found a table. Juliana began talking animatedly about the swings and the attractions they saw on their walk. Jamie rolled his eyes when she described him being scrunched up in the swing before they were lifted into the air. “So how was the roller coaster?” the brown eyed girl asked. Addison and Tyler shared a shy glance before answering, “Fine. It was fine.” Juliana looked at both of them before exclaiming, “Fine, keep your secrets.”

Addison threw a french fry at her friend. “The ride was closed for repair, then it opened. We rode it. It went fast. We walked here. Exciting times!” She also gave her a look that said that she would give a better explanation later. Tyler and Jamie looked at each other and shrugged. "Are we doing more rides or what?" Addison asked as she picked at her poutine.

"There's always the theater show," Jamie suggested coolly.

Tyler looked confused, "Why would we do that? It's lame." Jamie stared at him in disbelief until he added, "Wait, there is a new show this year. Gotta check it out. It will be good to get out of the heat."

On the short walk to the theater, Juliana grabbed Addison's arm and whispered in her ear, "So what happened?"

Addison looked back at Tyler who was not so subtly staring at her ass. "So we kissed- a lot, which was good. Reagan saw us though," she said quietly.

"Oh shit," Juliana muttered. Reagan was a known gossip who played fast and loose with facts.

"How bad can it be?" She smiled, "It was just kisses. There wasn't even a tongue involved."

"Oh, I got tongue- lots and lots of tongue," the Brazilian beauty giggled. The two spoke in hushed whispers as they continued to walk.

Tyler walked behind them and strained to hear what was being said. He was certain that he was at least partially the subject of conversation and wanted to hear Addison’s opinion of their stunted make-out sessions. Jamie tapped him lightly on the arm and raised his eyebrows, "So…." Tyler nodded yes and smiled. "Me too," the blonde replied with the goofiest of grins, "Me too."

Tyler sped up and grabbed Addison's hand casually, "Hey, my ears were burning. Were you discussing my future NHL career or were you discussing my other skills?"

Addison gave him the side eye, "Tap the brakes there, dude. You don’t go from 'I don't know how to kiss a girl' to bragging about your skills in less than an hour, mmkay?" Tyler looked dejected. She continued, "I will admit that you do seem to have a certain natural skill set in that area. Since that was literally my first real kiss, I would offer that maybe we are both bad at it but don't know any better."

"Wait, that was your first kiss?" Tyler whispered, "but you kissed me like you had kissed a ton of guys. You kissed well for a first timer."

"Well, I wanted to kiss you and you weren't taking your shot so I took matters in my own hands,” Addison shrugged her shoulders. “You were pretty good yourself."

"Do you want to do it again," he nudged her as they walked.

"Yes, which is why I am letting you take me to this lame show in a darkened theater," she teased. His jaw dropped slightly. "You're cute, but the two of you weren't subtle. If you want to kiss me, just ask."

They walked the rest of the way in silence, holding hands. As the group walked into the dimly lit theater, they split up and went to opposite sides of the back row. The row was essentially a carpeted bench attached to a carpeted wall. Addison grabbed the spot nearest the right wall.

Tyler sat next to her and tapped his leg nervously while they waited for the show to begin. She placed her hand on his thigh. He stared at her hand resting casually on his leg, oblivious to the effect it was having on him. "Do you always get this nervous around girls or is it just me?" she joked. He looked down and didn't respond. "I am normally nervous around boys, but not you," she started to ramble, "Maybe I am a little nervous. They have a place like this at Six Flags. It's called the Southern Palace. Now I know why my brother also sat in the back with his girlfriend. I never understood before, but it makes sense now."

Tyler pulled her to his body and kissed her. She was mid-word as his lips met hers. When his tongue slid into her mouth, there was a moment of mutual confusion before instinct kicked into gear. Addison wasn't sure if this was reality or a dream, but she decided to savor the moment. She knew that this was one of those life moments that would be forever etched in her memory.

Tyler's eyes remained partly open as they kissed. He glanced at her in amazement every time they came up for air. They were both twisted towards each other at an awkward angle. Addison moved so that her back leaned against the far wall and swung her legs over Tyler’s legs. Both fumbled with where to put their hands. One of Tyler’s hands landed on her right hip while the other cradled her head. He murmured in her ear, “Is it okay to touch you like this?” He felt her head nod yes. Addison’s hands traveled up his arms and back down again. Each pause for air was marked by a smile or giggle. Tyler had long given up trying to control the raging erection that pressed against his shorts. He gasped when her hands slid under his shirt which added to the ever growing bulge in his lap.

“You can touch them if you want,” she whispered.

“Them?” he asked, knowing what he hoped she meant, but waited for confirmation.

“My boobs- you can touch my boobs,” she whispered as her hands roamed his chest.

His hand tentatively touched her right breast then he chuckled in her ear, “I’m touching your boob. I’m actually touching a boob.” It was a flurry of gropes and touches with a steady stream of hard and soft kisses. His hips twisted slightly and his hard-on pressed into her left thigh. Addison looked at the source and her eyes widened. “Is that a…..,” she gasped. He froze in place, unsure of what to do. “Did I do that? What does it feel like? Does it hurt?” she rambled on until he shut her up with a kiss

“You have to stop talking about it,” he moaned, “You are making it worse.”

Her face scrunched up, “Do we need to stop? Did I do something wrong?”

“We should stop- sorry,” he sat up and sighed deeply. “Fuck,” he groaned softly. He moved away from Addison and leaned forward in an effort to conceal the evidence. She inched towards him and put her head on his shoulder.

“What do you normally do when this happens?” she asked softly.

“Depends,” he answered bashfully, looking around at the rest of the crowd that was absorbed in the show. “If I am in a crowd, I try to think about stinky hockey gear or skating drills. If I am alone, I …..take care of it”

“Oh, you jack off?” she answered, “Do you think that the stinky hockey gear thing will work?”

“Not with you sitting there- smelling like flowers and your lips looking like that,” he whispered.

“Okay then, I guess we go with plan B then,” she stated matter-of-factly. “Can I touch it?” she asked as her hand moved towards it.

“Addison!” he hissed. Her hand landed firmly on his crotch. “Holy shit…. Holy shit,” he panted, “You’re touching it.” She started rubbing her palm up and down. He watched in amazement and then looked back at her face. His hips rocked softly, “That’s good. Yeah like that” Her eyes were wide with wonder and a smile spread across her face.

“Can I see it?” she asked, “Really touch it?”

Tyler’s head swiveled around. Again nobody was paying attention to them. He was pretty sure that he was about to be woken up by the sound of his mom screaming his name to get his ass out of bed for hockey practice. There was no way this was actually happening. He nodded yes and unbuttoned his shorts and freed the erection from the confines of his boxers. The tip glistened with precum. Her eyes went to it and then looked at Tyler’s face. “Okay,” she said, “Tell me what to do.”

Her fingers went to the top and played with the slickness. Her fingers rubbed in a circular motion. He grabbed her hand and placed it on the shaft. “Rub it up and down,” he grunted softly. Her hand touched the tip. Her fingers toying it while she stared at it. “Addison,” he moaned, “rub it-please.” She snapped out of her daze and started rubbing. She wrapped her hand around the shaft and moved it up and down, using the precum as a lube. “Oh God, oh God” his hips bucked quickly, “A little faster, a little harder.” She followed his instructions. His head tilted back and his eyes closed, “Oh, oh, oh.” Addison watched as he came into her hand. She continued to pump slowly until he told her to stop. She looked at her hand and then rubbed it on the carpeted bench. He adjusted himself back into his shorts quickly. Neither of them spoke for a minute and Tyler stared ahead.

“So, is it usually over that quick?” she asked.

“No,” he blushed, “You're the first non-male hand to touch it. Usually it takes me longer.”

“But you liked it?” she asked.

“Oh yeah,” he grinned.

“Can I make a suggestion?” she poked his ribs.

“Sure,” his eyebrows raised.

“When you give the explanation to anyone about why things earlier ended so quickly, just say it was the first hand that wasn’t yours. When you said the first non-male hand to touch it, it sort implied that there have been all sorts of male hands touching it. I mean not my business, but it does invoke images of locker room circle jerks.”

Tyler laughed out loud- loud enough to gather the attention of Jamie and Juliana

“Okay, MY hand. The first person other than ME to touch it,” he smirked. “You’re a brat, you know that? A very pretty brat, but a brat.”

“Can we kiss again?” she deflected.

“I think that we should skip that,” he grinned, “It might pop up again.”

“Can I put my head on your shoulder until the show is over?” she questioned.

“Yeah, I would like that,” he answered and he grabbed her hand and pulled her close to him. They sat in silence for the reminder of the show.

When the show ended, Tyler stood up slowly and held out his hand to Addison. They walked out into the night air. Tyler’s phone rang as they walked out of the theater. He answered, “Hi Mom. I thought you said you were coming at nine. It’s only seven thirty now. I know.” Addison pretended to study the show poster on the wall outside the theater. She listened intently as the conversation continued. “I will be at the gate in fifteen minutes. Wait, just a second.” Tyler called to Jamie, “Hey Big Rig, do you need a ride home?” Jamie shook his head not and tossed Juliana’s hair. “Okay, I will see you in fifteen minutes. Bye Mom,” he said finally. He lowered his voice, “Love you too.”

Addison looked at Tyler and then back at Juliana and Jamie. “So you have to leave now? Your mom is picking you up?” she asked. He nodded yes. “Oh,” she replied quietly. She silently cursed herself for not thinking about the outcome of the day. Of course, it would come to an end and she was a fool for not having thought about it. “We don’t meet for the bus back to the hotel until nine PM, but I could walk with you to the front gate. I mean if you wanted,” she looked up and saw him staring at her face. He held out his hand and she took it with a smile. She called out to Juliana, “I will call you after Tyler leaves so I can find you.”

“How much longer are you in Canada?” he asked as they walked through the park.

“We leave tomorrow afternoon,” she sighed.

“I have practice tomorrow morning,” he stated as if there were any real opportunity for them to meet again before Addison left. Today would be their first and last day together. Addison felt numb about the prospect of never seeing Tyler again.

Internally Tyler was having a similar, yet far less nuanced thought process. Part of him was still in disbelief at how the day unfolded. He would never fantasize about meeting a girl like Addison and her finding him interesting enough to kiss.

As they approached the gate, reality set in for both of them. Addison spied a photo booth set among carts selling souvenirs. “Should we take pictures?” she asked. We can use up the rest of my Canadian cash.” Tyler helped her figure out the right coins and hopped into the photo booth. Addison sat on his lap and they smiled into the camera.

“Okay, silly face for pose two,” she instructed

“Kisses,” Tyler requested for pose three.

“Smile again,” she suggested for pose four. Addison looked at the camera while Tyler stared at Addison’s face. When the pictures came out of the machine, they each took a set.

“So,” he said quietly, “Should I give you my phone number or something?”

Addison studied his face, “No, I don’t think so.”

His head snapped upward, “No? Why not?”

They stopped just short of the exit gate. She looked around at the people milling about. Addison took a deep breath, “Have you seen that movie, Serendipity? It’s a chick flick.” He shook his head no. “I figured. In the movie, a girl meets a guy and they have a fantastic day together. At the end of the day, he asks for her phone number and she says no. She writes it in a book and leaves it on a bench.She tells him that if it’s fate that they meet again, it will happen.”

Tyler listened for her to continue. “I would rather leave it like that than give you my number. You’ll probably text or call a few times, but life will get in the way- hockey practices for you and choir stuff for me. I would rather have a perfect day to remember. If we are meant to meet again, we will.”

“Are you sure?” he asked. She nodded her head yes.

“Tyler,” a young blonde called from just outside the gate, “Mom’s waiting for you.”

“Okay Candace, I’m coming,” he called to her. “So this is it then I guess,” he said as he held Addison’s hands.

“Hold on,” She ran to the exit, got her hand stamped and ran back to Tyler. “I will walk you all the way out,” she proclaimed.

Together they walked through the exit hand in hand. Jackie Seguin stood waiting by the car. Her eyes widened at the sight of Tyler walking towards holding a girl’s hand. “Mom, this is Addison. She’s from Dallas,” he said calmly. “Addison, this is my mom.” He turned and gave her a hug. He whispered, “So I guess this bye, huh?”

“Yeah, this is bye,” Addison agreed. As he walked to the car, she called, “Tyler- don’t forget to find me when you come play for Dallas. You’ll look good in green.” He flashed a smile, “Will do.”

Addison waved and walked to the bench outside of the park. Tyler started to get in the car before he turned around and looked at her sitting on the bench. He sprinted towards her and she stood up. He grabbed her face and kissed her. For a moment time stopped as they stood next to the bench, glued together. No one else existed. His mom and sisters were watching from the curb, their jaws dropped in shock. For a moment, there was no risk of their hearts breaking. And for Tyler, it was if he had been a ladies man all along.

“Okay,” he breathed finally, “I have to go or my mom is going to kill me. You’re right. Let’s just leave it as the perfect day and I will find you when I come to Dallas. Deal?”

“Deal,” she smiled.

2022

Addy felt Tyler's weight pressed against her body as she pulled him tighter to it. Her body pulsated as his mouth grazed over her bare shoulders. Her mind, however, raced with thoughts. Her Tyler from Toronto had turned into Tyler-Fucking-Seguin, noted himbo and hockey whore. She had lied to him earlier. As a single woman in Dallas, you didn't have to follow hockey to know what a playboy Tyler had turned into so she knew exactly who he was when he introduced himself. She gathered her thoughts to assess the situation. She was currently making out with the NHL superstar and about to cross the line into dry humping.

"We need to stop or we'll have a repeat of last time," he moaned. "We could stop or we could relocate to some place more private," he added eagerly. “We aren't far from my house. We can order some food and hangout."

"Tyler, we’re thirty. Let's not pretend. We are not going to ‘hang out,’" she responded. "You get an Uber. I will pay the tab."

When they went back into the tavern, Gina and Tom were playing darts. Tyler focused on his phone, ordered the Uber and looked up to see they were staring at them with bemused grins on their faces. Addy didn't make eye contact as she walked to the bar. "Tess, I need to close out my tab" she said as Tyler reached for his wallet. "Put it away, Tyler. I still owe you for my poutine." She swatted his hand away.

Tess looked up and smiled, "That'll be eight bucks, Adorable Addy."

Tyler interjected, "Eight dollars for all of it? I am coming here all the time."

Tess turned and pressed her lips together, "It's eight dollars for her. You get the Addy discount because she vouched for you. Otherwise, you would be sliding over that C-note you carry for emergencies."

Tyler pretended to be offended, "Why do you hate me?"

"You rich white boys get on my last nerves," she laughed, "but if she vouches for you, you must be good people."

Addy slapped down twenty dollars and turned to Tyler. "Let me go say my goodbyes and I'll wait for you outside," she said softly.

He pulled her to his body, "We're thirty. We don't need to pretend to leave separately."

"Says you- you won't have any consequences if people know," she pushed away and walked to her friend, "I'm heading out. Y'all have a good night." When Gina stood up, Addy whispered, "I'll text in the morning." Gina's eyebrows raised at the deviation from their standard routine. Addy shrugged her shoulders, "Not going straight home. Might be late." Gina simply nodded her head.

Tyler simply nodded his head at Tom, "Tuesday at 1? Text me the course." He placed his hand on Addy's back and followed her out of the tavern. When they arrived at the Uber, he opened the door and motioned for her to slide in first. Her leg bounced nervously as they drove off. He placed his hand on her thigh and smiled at her, "Are you always this nervous around men or is it just me?"

"It's just you," she grinned, "What about you?"

"Too early to tell," he explained, "I thought I would be less nervous this time."

"You thought about me? About meeting me again?" she asked softly.

"All the time- especially when I got traded to Dallas," he replied, suddenly serious. Both of them got quiet, not sure what to say.

When they arrived at Tyler's house, he tried to study her face. Two thoughts emerged in his brain. First, why was he so eager to bring her to his house? It wasn't his usual MO. He usually went to other women's homes which allowed for quick exits. However, that felt unnecessary with Addison. Second, why did he feel the need to impress her? Tyler had become extremely confident. Maybe too confident, he considered, but suddenly he felt unsure and shy.

Addy tried to keep her face neutral as they walked into his large home. It was everything you would expect from a professional athlete, yet somehow felt cozy and warm. He went to check on the dogs and let them out of their crates. Marshall, Cash and Gerry sniffed Addy with mild curiosity as Tyler introduced her to them. "Boys, this is Addison," he said brightly, “Dad knew her a long time ago.”

'It's actually Addy now," she said as patted Gerry's head, "I haven't been Addison in fifteen years."

Tyler turned his head, "Why?"

She stood back up and walked away from him. He watched her intently.

"Why are you no longer Addison?" he asked. He did the mental math in his head, "What happened fifteen years ago?"

"You" she whispered to herself and turned around, "It's been a long time, Tyler. It doesn't matter now."

"I think it does matter, Addison," he stepped towards her, "Tell me."

"Just drop it," she pleaded and looked down.

"No," he answered, "Does it have anything to do with why you don't follow the Stars? Or why the name Tyler completed the asshole trifecta? What happened? I thought we were good when we said bye." He crossed to her and lifted her chin to look into her eyes.

"Addison became Easy A," she yelled.

Tyler took a step back, “Easy A? What does that mean?”

Addy crossed her arms, “What? You didn’t hear? I mean our exploits were legendary at PCA. LE-GEND-ARY.”

“Addison, what are you talking about?” he asked with the confusion showing on his face.

“I’m talking about the fact that you didn’t keep your damn mouth shut about what we did in the back of the theater, more specifically what I did.” she put her hands and pushed him away from her.

“Addison, WHAT-IN-THE-FUCK are you talking about?” he bellowed.

“My name is Addy now, dammit.” she hissed as walked past him. “Thanks to your big mouth I was labeled a slut. Addison is the easy A and the easy lay. There was also 'If you want to have some fun, be sure to call Addison.' You on the other hand? I bet you were hailed as a stud with your conquest. I became a social pariah after my behavior was found to be unladylike and unbecoming. I lost my spot in choir and most of my friends."

"You think I told someone about it?" he protested. "I never told anyone what happened in the theater. Big Rig knew that we made out, but I never told anyone else."

"How did people in Dallas find out?" he added. "The guys teased me in the locker room, but it wasn't that big of a deal."

"It wasn’t a big deal FOR YOU. What did they say in the locker room,Tyler?" she challenged, "What did they say?"

"Seggy shot and he scored," he said quietly, "I didn't think it was a big deal. I mean you were in a different country."

"And you didn't correct them? You didn't think to question why they said that? I mean if you didn't say anything to anyone, how did they get that impression that we fucked? I mean, as long as you looked good it didn't matter, right?" she peppered him with questions.

"I didn't think it went beyond the locker room. If I had known it was spread around Dallas, I would have said something. I didn't know. I SWEAR I didn't know.," Tyler argued. "Addison, you have to believe me. I would have never done anything to fuck up that day." There was a sincerity and tenderness in his voice that she paused and looked at him. She walked around the living room as he watched. She stopped when a framed picture caught her attention. There in a simple black frame was the photo strip they took in the photo booth.

"You kept them? After all this time?" She turned to him with a questioning look. "Why?"

Tyler looked down and didn't answer at first. He took a slow lap around the living room and stood in front of her. "Because you were the first and probably only girl/woman who liked me for me. You believed in me and you trusted me. It was the only tangible thing I had that you were real," he declared.

"You really didn't tell anyone" she whispered.

"I didn't tell anyone- I swear," Tyler inched closer to her.

"Swear on your dick," she held her hand out against his chest.

"Swear on your dick." she smiled, "if you are lying, may you never get another erection again."

"I swear on my dick I told no one," he stepped forward.

She stepped to him and he asked "They called you a slut?" She nodded her head yes. "I'm sorry, Addison. I didn't know. Fuck, I didn't know." He grabbed and pulled her to his chest. "It was the perfect day for me. One of the top five days of my life. I feel awful it got fucked up for you."

He held her tight and swayed slowly as she rested her head against his chest. "It really was a great day, wasn't it?" she looked up and smiled. "I can't believe it's really you-Tyler from Toronto."

"Technically, Brampton- but close enough," he sassed.

She covered his mouth with a kiss. Tyler responded and started to walk her back towards the couch. He gently guided her until they were both on the couch. The weight of his body rested on her as they kissed.

"One day you'll actually let me make the first move" he murmured in her ear.

"No one is stopping you now," she remarked, "Aren't you some sort of hockey sex god? Surely, you have some moves you’ve developed."

"Oh, I have moves now," he said as he slid his hand under her shirt.

"Then show me," she purred.

"Sit up," he ordered.

She raised an eyebrow.

"Please?"

She sat up and he removed her shirt. His hands went to her bra and tugged it down. His mouth went to her nipple and teased it with his teeth before drawing a circle with this tongue. Their eyes met as his tongue flicked softly. His mouth moved down her stomach. Addison placed her hand on his head as it inched lower. "Tyler," she moaned. He smiled against her skin as his finger gripped her shorts and panties. He tugged at them and she lifted her hips to allow him to pull them down. He tossed them to the side. His lips went to her hips and began to trail down. His tongue glided along the curve of her thigh. She sat up on her elbows, "Wait, wait, wait." His head shot up. "Take your clothes off. I want to see you," she implored.

He sat up and peeled off his shirt. Addison gasped as she studied his chest. His arms and chest were covered with tattoos and she felt the urge to touch them. He stood up and removed his shorts and boxers. He smiled shyly as he moved back to her. "You're bigger than I remembered," she commented.

He looked down and grinned up at her. Addison rolled her eyes, "Not your damn cock- the rest of you. You're more muscular-larger. You look different than the picture I had in my mind all these years.”

“Is that good or bad?” he asked in a moment of doubt.

“Not either good or bad. I liked fifteen year old Tyler’s body and I like thirty year old Tyler’s body. They are just different, both hotter than hell in their own ways.” she answered

“You look the same, Addison. I can't believe I didn't know it was you right away. I guess I had given up hope of finding you.” Tyler said as he moved back to her. “You have the same gorgeous eyes and the same smile that makes my heart skip a beat. You look more amazing naked than I dreamed.” He began to kiss her neck and make his way down her torso, kissing her softly as she writhed. “You’re here and you’re naked,” he said with wonder, “I can’t believe it.” When his mouth made contact with her waiting sex, Addison’s back arched off the couch. “TYLER!!!” she panted as his tongue explored.

He looked up and smirked, “Told you that I have moves.”

She sat up on her elbows, “It’s a decent start, but let’s see how you finish.”

“Still a brat, I see,” he shook his head. He began fucking her with his mouth again. It was a flurry of licks, sucks, and soft bites. Addison felt the thrill from the top of her head to the tips of her toes. Each movement elicited a moan or whimper. He had dreamed of this moment for almost half of his life. He wanted to bring her to peak and he was entirely focused. When she was able to speak, Addison would call his name. It was music to Tyler’s ears. She wove her fingers through his hair and tugged to pull him closer as her hips rocked against his face. “So close, so close,” she yelped as she felt herself submit to the pleasure. Her orgasm was loud, intense and long. She rode the wave of little aftershocks and Tyler licked her juices that flowed freely.

He slowly and gently kissed his way up her body. She trembled ever-so-slightly with each touch. There was a tenderness to his touch which was not present with the other women he had been with. She continued to run her fingers through his curls.

“Your hair is different, right? It wasn’t curly last time?” she spoke softly. Her heart raced still and a thousand thoughts raced through her mind.

“Yeah, it turned curly sometime in my early twenties- not sure why,” he grinned. When he made his way to her neck, “Are you good? You liked it?”

“Oh yeah, that move was ummmmm, impressive,” she sighed.

“I have another move if you want to see it,” he nibbled her ear.

“Does it involve my long time friend?” she joked as her hand went to his cock. She stroked it casually and Tyler groaned. “It feels the same. I am glad it didn’t change.”

Tyler sat up before leaning off the couch. He grabbed his wallet out of shorts. He opened it deftly and retrieved the condom. Addison bit her lip and closed her eyes. It was a reminder that this was no longer Shy Ty, but a man who was seasoned with hook-ups. She wasn’t sure how that reality made her feel and she tried to push the thought from her mind. He looked at her as he ripped the package. “Hey,” he said softly, “Do you want to stop? We don’t have to…….” She opened her eyes and stared at him. She sat up and straddled his thighs wordlessly. Her hand went to his cheek and she caressed it. He returned the gesture. “Seriously, we can stop. I understand.” She searched his eyes, lost in her thoughts. He smiled sweetly and she saw him staring back at her. Not the NHL superstar, but the sweet boy from Toronto who she fell in love with. It might have been short-lived, but she was sure that it was love. She was also sure that it was returned.

“Hi,” she whispered.

“Hi,” he whispered in return.

“I missed you. I missed you so much,” she said as she kissed him gently.

“Me too-more than you know,” he kissed in return.

“I’m ready now,” she leaned and pulled him with her.

“Really? No pressure,” he said as he rolled on the condom.

“Yes, I’m sure,” she responded.

They both gasped as he slid into her warmth. It was a new and exciting sensation, yet somehow felt entirely familiar. The pace was slow and methodical at first as they explored to find the best angle and pressure for their mutual pleasure. There was muted conversation about hand placement on top of her clit- “A little to the left- yeah, right there” Tyler’s mind exploded with a hundred different thoughts, but the most pressing was that he was determined not to cum until she had again. The speed and the intensity of thrusting increased. Their mouths devoured each other as they fucked. Her legs wrapped around him and she used her muscles to clench down around his rock hard cock. “I’m going to cum, I’m going to cum,” they panted in unison. Addison exploded first with Tyler finishing just afterwards.

Tyler rested his body on top of hers in exhaustion. He was far more spent than his actions required. “Addison, that was…..” his voice trailed off. “Shit, can I still call you Addison?” he asked. She nodded yes as he showered her neck and face with kisses. “I don’t want to move. Stay here all night?” he moaned.

“You want me to stay all night with you?” she asked. She was pretty sure that was a deviation from his standard operating method.

“Let’s start with one night,” he said as he looked into her eyes.

“Okay, but I’m too old to sleep on the couch when I know that there has to be a bed somewhere in this house,” she teased. They sat up slowly and gathered their clothes from the floor. She followed him up the stairs and into the main bedroom. The bed was large and fitted with luxurious sheets. She put her things on the bench at the end of the bed. She glanced at her phone and smiled. Gina had sent a funny meme. Juliana had responded to her text. When she put her phone down, she looked up to him staring at her.

“Why are you smiling?” he asked.

“Just a text from Juliana,” she answered, “Remember her? I told her that I was with you tonight.”

“Of course, I remember her. Is she in Brazil or Dallas these days?” he inquired.

“Neither- she moved to Dallas after college, but just got a job in Seattle,” Addison answered.

“Huh, I’ll have to let Big Rig know,” he smiled.

“Where is he these days?” she quizzed.

“You really haven’t been paying attention. He was drafted by Dallas, but now he is in Seattle now.”

“You’re kidding me,” she laughed.

“Nope and he’s single,” Tyler smiled, “Not that I would try to set him up with any one.”

“Of course,” she giggled, “It would break bro code or something. Do you have a shirt I can throw on to sleep?” she asked. He threw the shirt in his hand to her. She caught it in her hands and brought it to her nose to smell. “I’m pretty sure that you’re never getting this shirt back,” she smiled as she inhaled.

“Oh really? Why is that?” he laughed.

She blushed as she put it over her head, “No reason.”

“No- tell me,” he pleaded as they climbed onto the bed.

“I want a memento from tonight,” she sighed.

He rolled over into his side and looked at her, “Why would you need a memento? What do you think is going to happen tomorrow morning?

She rolled to face him and shrugged.

He inched forward and kissed her, “If you think I am going to let you get away from me again, you are sadly mistaken, Addison from Dallas.

She smiled, “Is that so Tyler from Toronto?”

“Yes,” he pulled her close to rest on his chest, “I have big plans for us tomorrow.”

“You do?” she questioned as fingers traced his tattoos.

“A full day at Six Flags to relive our first day together,” he laughed, “Complete with a show at the Southern Palace.”

“Don’t think I am a girl who gives handjobs in darkened theaters these days,” she retorted.

“Oh?”

“Yeah, I am classy. I only give blowjobs now.” she laughed.

“Is that a deal?” he asked.

“Deal!” she said as she kissed his chest.

[alchemistc]

goon | bucktommy | chapter five

check out the hockey glossary here (updated through chapter five)

Prologue | Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four

read Chapter Five on ao3

Eddie pulls into the parking lot still grinning at the recollection of the first time he’d met Evan Buckley, and Tommy can’t help but smile back, all the air in his lungs spent on the breathless laughter he’d expelled on the drive over.

“He actually thought I was there to replace him, or something,” Eddie says, fondly, amusement and affection seeping into his voice, and something clicks, just then. Tommy doesn’t have time to think about it, though, because half a second later Ravi is banging on the passenger window, looking harried.

Tommy rolls it down with one eyebrow raised.

“Closed practice,” Ravi says, with a kind of warning tilt to his expression, and Eddie’s smile evaporates in the drivers seat.

“Shit,” Eddie says, and Ravi nods emphatically.

Tommy’s been here going on three months, and this is the first time he’s even heard a whisper about closed practice. Sure, there are days where fans don’t fill the stands, and days when the media doesn’t seem inclined to make an appearance because there isn’t any story worth telling, but as far as he knows, Bobby Nash hasn’t held a closed practice in at least a few years. Back when he was brand new and fighting an uphill battle for a point or two a week, yeah, he’d definitely heard a few of those stories from guys like McKinley and even a few of the guys who’d been traded, in the following few years, to teams Tommy played for.

But Tommy can’t think of a reason why Nash would want to do that now.

Gerrard had held them for the opportunity to pick on whoever he felt like singling out on a given day, but that’s not Nash’s style.

“He called up four guys from Loveland,” Ravi continues, and next to Tommy, Eddie grimaces.

“Scrimmage?”

Ravi nods forebodingly.

“Shit,” Eddie repeats, and Tommy takes a deep breath, not quite sure if this is actually something to be worried about, or more melodramatics from a bunch of guys who’ve never had to play for the likes of Tortorella or Gerrard. “Does Buck know?”

“Buck’s the one who told me,” Ravi says, and Eddie whistles through his teeth.

“Is he already picking on the Eagles guys?”

“He’s got The List out,” Ravi informs them gravely, and Eddie actually leans forward and knocks his head against the steering wheel, startling Ravi when his forehead hits dead center on the horn.

“What’s the list?” Tommy queries, using the back of his hand to shove Ravi gently out of his way, opening the door before he rolls up the window to allow them to continue this conversation. He’s almost positive this is a late hazing, at this point, but never let it be said that Tommy won’t take any opportunity to let Buck’s team talk about him.

(Fucked, with a capital F.)

“You don’t wanna know about The List,” Ravi tells him ominously, dancing out of the way of the bag Tommy swings out from the back seat before shutting his door behind him.

“Tell me anyway.”

Ravi falls into stride beside him, detailing a nightmarish demon of a man who hazes the new kids and the old hats alike with pop quizzes on regulations and unspoken rules, right before drilling any random passersby with questions about the system they play until he was satisfied they fully understood The Process.

Tommy hasn’t seen a trace of this monstrous demon, but he’s actually kind of looking forward to finding out if this is a real thing Evan Buckley does. It sounds objectively hilarious, and also a little adorable.

It’s been two weeks and Tommy’s gotten a couple texts, a single call, and some heavy looks across a table at team dinner, or the locker room after practie, with no idea what, exactly, he’d said or done to draw Buckley’s ire. He actually thought I was there to replace him, Eddie had said, not five minutes ago, and Tommy takes the rest of the walk (Eddie and Ravi on either side of him looking like they’ve just gotten their marching orders) to reassess the last month or so.

Things had been great, after the All-Star game.

The new guys were still learning the system, which has an admittedly sharp learning curve, and they’d lost a few games, in amongst the grind, but Tommy was skating better, and Buck was pulling off some pretty spectacular shit every night, breaking ankles and running up enough points to throw him into the Norris conversation. McKinley had suggested some line mix-ups that had actually helped the new guys both pick up the pace and start to work within the system as it was designed to work.

Eddie had been making a point to pull Tommy in, inviting him out to places with the team, and sharing his sparse father-son time with Tommy, spending a few extra minutes out on the ice with him on practice days to try to give him some tips on his movement, his edgework, his stick handling skills.

For two and a half weeks Tommy had spent his nights stretching out sore muscles, icing aches and pains, and watching game film on mute, listening to Evan Buckley talk to him on speaker about the perils of simple carbohydrates while he shoveled two-day old shrimp fried rice into his mouth.

And then he’d been left on read for three minutes and barely spoken to him since.

In hindsight, it makes plenty of sense. Hell, he’d joked a million times to himself that Buckley and Diaz lived out of each others pockets; of course, of course Buckley would be upset by the perception that Eddie Diaz could in any way attempt to replace Evan Buckley.

Tommy will talk to him after practice. Maybe take him up on the beer he’d promised to buy Tommy in exchange for a few lessons on keeping his blades planted during a bout. (Nash and Hen don’t need to know he’s giving their star defenseman fighting tips.)

It’s as good a saying shutout with twenty minutes still left in a game.

Tommy isn’t actually paying attention, when it happens. He’s mostly trying to remember what he knows about their penalty kill, how it functions, which point of the diamond he’s supposed to maintain a five foot radius around while the power play unit hammers them with shots towards the net.

He is very firmly not thinking about how flustered he’d felt, walking into the lockers to find a half-dressed Evan Buckley wielding an actual clipboard, going through equipment checks with four Eagles players like Buck hadn’t previously played a game or two with all but one of them. Like the Eagles don’t closely follow the same system the Avs play. Like they’re not fucking professionals, themselves. Nothing about it should have done a single fucking thing for Tommy, and yet, while Buck made his way down the checklist and Wagner and Ivan elbowed each other in amusement as the fresh-faced kid who’d yet to be called up until today seemed to waffle between consternation and the need to prove himself.

Tommy doesn’t have a praise kink. Or a degradation kink, come to think of it.

But he’d suddenly realized he absolutely had a thing for Evan Buckley leaning into the obsessive perfectionism. (He’d had the irrational desire to see what his Google calendar looks like, and had to stuff that away immediately while Wagner waved at him from across the room and received an icy glare from Buck for daring to interrupt.)

He doesn’t see it, is the point he’s trying to make. From the left of his goalie, Tommy takes a puck to the bucket and watches Buckley circle back up to the top of the zone while he blinks away the dull gong-like ringing in his ears, watches Ivan shovel the puck back to Buck and Buck slide left, right, barely keeping it in the zone when he spins away from a poke check, and then Wagner skates right through Tommy’s line of vision, and by the time Tommy repositions himself, Buck is chasing after Eddie, who has the puck and a clean sheet of ice straight to Chim.

Tommy keeps up with Wagner down the ice, Buck chasing ahead of them, and with just the team and coaches in here, Tommy can hear a lot more than he usually can, even in a practice setting— the sound of the guys on the bench chattering away, taking notes on how a PK is actually supposed to function; the slice of eleven sets of blades gliding over the ice; the chirping from Eddie as he taunts Buck, five feet behind him, and Buck’s loud, loud guttural shout a moment before he catches a burst of speed and extends his knee just as Eddie winds back to shoot the puck.

Eddie goes down with a groan of pain, and they all slow, the momentum of the chase propelling them most of the way as Eddie curses, a loud mix of English and Spanish while Buck drops his stick to his knees and sucks in a few steady breaths.

Hen is out on the ice about fifteen seconds later, and things devolve from there.

Eddie flops into the seat next to Tommy, ten minutes into their flight, and Tommy raises a curious brow, eyes darting up from his book when Eddie just sighs. Six rows up, Buckley is making friends with the d-man they’d called up from Loveland, just in case Eddie’s knee acted up and he had to be scratched from the lineup.

It’s the first time in three months that Tommy has seen them sit in separate rows on a flight.

Eddie shrugs half-heartedly when Tommy tilts his head in question.

There’s enough chatter going on that Tommy doesn’t feel the need to pull out his phone and have this conversation through his fucking notes app, but he keeps his voice low, regardless.

“How’s your knee?” he starts, because despite how close they’ve become, he’s under no illusion that he can just dive straight into the “we made your best friend mad, how do we fix it” conversation without some small-talk to ease them into it.

Or maybe they can. “Recovering from Buck’s possessive streak pretty well, actually,” Eddie says with a breathy snort. “Wish his ego would get on the same page as my knee.”

Tommy bites down on the urge to defend him, of all things, but a moment later Eddie sighs.

“That wasn’t fair. Buck is — he gets a little weird, sometimes, about the people that are important to him.” He pauses, fingers tapping against his thigh as he shoots a careful look at Tommy. “I feel kinda bad. All he ever wants is to feel like he’s being included.”

“You’re allowed to have more than one friend,” Tommy intones, and then feels for a moment like walking it back at the lofty tilt of Eddie’s head, his pursed lips, his deadpan expression.

“Buck has about five million attachment issues and three people he trusts implicitly, and one of them has been inadvertently icing him out since he left for the All Star game. He’s second guessing six years of friendship because he didn’t realize dating wasn’t the only thing that could take my attention away from him for more than five minutes at a time.”

Tommy thinks that’s probably an oversimplification, but he gets the gist. “Have you talked to him?”

“Not successfully,” Eddie intones, with a nod towards the back of Buck’s head.

“I’ll talk to him.” Eddie gives him a grateful tap, two knuckles to Tommy’s knee, and shifts back into his seat, stretching his leg out into the aisle. “Maybe wait until after the game. Dallas is only six points behind us and I’d much rather he take a run at Duchene than you, if he doesn’t like what you have to say.”

The chuckle that escapes containment is a little self-deprecating, but Tommy tilts his head back, closes his eyes, and pretends to get some shuteye while he ponders what the hell he’s actually going to say to Buck. After the game.

Letting Buck stay mad is either gonna make or break this game. Tommy hasn’t decided yet, but it’s a running concern, as they go up one, then Dallas ties, then Dallas captures the lead in the closing minutes of the first. Buck is agitated down the tunnel, agitated through intermission, agitated as he lines up for the opening puck drop of the second period, agitated as Dallas mucks things up in the neutral zone, agitated as the refs miss an interference call that he’s been penalized for at least three times in the calendar year, so far.

He’s agitated as he gets smashed into the boards behind Dallas’ net, and agitated as Diaz misses his pass and the puck trickles out of Dallas’ zone, and agitated when Dallas takes advantage and nearly goes up another goal, the puck clanging off the iron before Chimney can scramble from one side of his crease to the other.

Dallas plays a shitty, boring game of keep away, jamming up every play they try to make in the neutral zone, and with two minutes left in the second, Buck takes another nasty hit against the glass, sandwiched between Benn and Hintz with the puck no where close to him. The no call is probably his last straw, when he comes away bleeding with Hintz’s stick still stuck in the padding of his helmet.

Back on the bench, Buck washes out his mouth with water, grimaces as Hen dabs at the cut just to the side of his eyebrow, an uncanny match to the birthmark on the other side of his face, and proceeds to argue with Nash for thirty seconds as the clock ticks down and Nash keeps him on the bench.

Nash has a rule, in these scenarios. They play for the next five minutes, every time, no game too far out of reach because they’re just setting up for the next five, but the important piece is handing off the last five. Whatever happened, whatever will happen, once the previous five are up, they’re done. There’s no changing them, only learning from them.

And Buck is clearly not ready to hand it the fuck off.

With twenty-seven seconds left and the puck once again stuck in the middle of the ice, Buckley and Diaz replace Manson and Girard, and Buck takes about half a second to assess the run Duchene is making towards their zone before he seems to make a decision.

It’s a legal hit, technically speaking. He catches Duchene with his head down, but Buck has both speed and a build up of negative emotion just leaking from his pores, at this point, so when they meet in the middle and Buck locks his elbow, the crash ends up looking more like an explosion of momentum, from Buck’s extended mitt, through Duchene’s chest. Buck stays standing and Duchene goes ass over tea-kettle, legs going out from under him and the puck trickling off his stick right into the space behind Buckley, where Diaz skates over to scoop it up and send it careening through a free patch of ice towards McKinley.

Duchene doesn’t snap back to his skates, right away, and Tommy can’t hear it over the noise of the crowd, but in the moment before Buck follows the puck on it’s way towards Oettinger, he bends to say something that has Duchene seeing fucking red.

Christ.

Tommy supposes he can add another player to the list of people who are gonna throw a fucking target on the number 18.

McKinley ties it up with seven seconds left in the period, but on the skate back to the benches Duchene decides to get chirpy. Buck gets through the glove taps just in time to have his stick snaked out from it’s loose hold by a smirking Duchene, and the shoving match the commences almost gets their entire first line thrown in the box for the start of the third, but it’s Buck that puts them all on notice as they skate back to their own benches.

“You’re a fucking joke, man!” Buck yells, still half-hanging off the sideboards, skate firmly tucked beneath the bench to give him leverage to lean back out and make direct eye contact with Duchene. “Your career is a joke, and you’re an embarrassment to the league. How’s that ring chasing going, Matty? I fucking lit you up, asshole, and I’ll do it again!”

Tommy makes the mistake of staring through the glass towards the Stars bench, where Dumba is staring directly at him. So. There’s that.

Whatever Duchene shouts back is lost to the final whistle and a battle for the puck that Stankoven ends up shoveling into his own zone just to kill off the last few seconds on the clock.

The ire hasn’t left Buck, once they’re in the room. They can all feel it, attitude fucking rolling off of him as they listen to Bobby walk them through his strategy to get rid of this congested mess of a game and get through to the net.

Tommy spends his twenty minutes trying to remember his last fight with Dumba.

It’s a tie game. There’s an edge to be had to winning a territorial fight like this — momentum can swing based entirely on whether or not Tommy’s fist makes contact enough times to fire up his team. The problem is the one player who’s been fired up the entire game isn’t doing shit to generate the kind of momentum they need to break out of this slog of a game and build some fucking offense.

There’s another option. They’re all pissed at the refs, and have been all game, and Tommy’s the locker room guy, the one they look to when their stars have said their piece and the coach has left them to their own devices. If the refs toss him, they’re gonna be amped the fuck up.

Nash would be pissed he’s even thinking about it. Buck might actually pick a fight he can’t win, if Tommy doesn’t play it right. Fighting Dumba won’t work, for this, so he’s gonna have to suck it up and play the villain, ignore the heavyweight fight and go for something gritty and fucking rude.

Benn, then.

It’s been a while since Tommy’s laid out Jamie Benn.

Both benches get warnings from the refs before the start of the third, and Buck blatantly ignores them the moment he’s on the ice, chirping every single black-and-neon green sweater that has a chance of hearing him, missing setups because he’s too busy laying reverse hits and generally being a pest.

Tommy absolutely shouldn’t find anything about this remotely amusing, because if he keeps it up, Dumba is absolutely gonna find a way to challenge Tommy, and everyone else is too frustrated with this new and unimproved Buckley. The problem is, Evan Buckley the pest is fucking hilarious, and the few insults Tommy has managed to catch are not only fantastically amusing, they’re also bitingly specific. Buck’s putting his stats and lore knowledge to good (evil) use.

He’s pretty sure he even catches a slyly worded allusion to cunnilingus that Benn very clearly does not like one bit, but Benn doesn’t have time for retaliation because Buck takes his momentary lapse to pick his pocket and spin into the Stars zone with three Avs on his heels.

The puck pings off the crossbar five different times before the Stars get possession again, and with fifteen minutes left in the game, Dadanov snipes one past Chim into the net.

Tommy can feel the bench deflate.

Dallas shaves another three and a half off the clock by clogging up the neutral zone before Tommy gets an opportunity on the ice with Benn’s line, and he doesn’t waste any time — down a goal with eleven and change left in the game, he doesn’t see a whole lot of other options, and he doesn’t really give Benn the opportunity to not engage.

It takes a bit of maneuvering.

Stripes haven’t called shit all game, from either side, so it’s a risk, either way, and Tommy’s goal isn’t to actually injure Benn, just make the hit look bad enough and blatant enough that they’ve got no choice but to call it. He waits until the puck has been off Benn’s stick for a hot second before he slams him into the boards, and the crowd gets loud.

The whistle blows, and just for the hell of it, Tommy wraps both hands around his stick and shoves it into the middle of Benn’s back when he tries to get back to his feet.

Johnston gets an arm around his neck half a second later, and both linesmen come careening in to break it up.

He’s assessed with five minutes, which isn’t ideal, when that shaves off half their time left in the game, but a minute and a half into the penalty kill Heiskanen takes a chop at Ravi when he manages to get the puck down past the red line, and suddenly they’re four-on-four for at least the middle portion of Tommy’s gamble.

Dallas’ special teams aren’t as good as theirs — not when they’re evenly matched — and when McKinley finds Panikkar with a stretch pass there’s no one in the lane to intercept.

Tie game, with a minute and a half left in Tommy’s major, back to being shorthanded, but there’s signs of life on the bench, and Buck seems to have finally fucking cooled his jets (Tommy spends forty seconds wondering which one of them convinced Bobby to force a Honey Stinger into his hands).

In typical fashion, the moment Tommy’s out of the box, Dallas returns to slowing the game right down, well aware that it’s the easiest way to neutralize the Avs offense, and the minutes chip away while Tommy watches the clock.

On a flyby, Duchene chirps at Buck and Diaz both on the bench, which is ultimately the Stars fucking downfall, even if they don’t know it.

With forty-seven seconds left on the clock, Diaz skates through traffic and gets a saucer pass down the ice to O’Connor, and Lundkvist blows a tire in his attempt to defend him.

The puck sails in right under Oettinger’s blocker.

In the locker room, ten minutes later, Tommy catches Nash’s eye and does his best not to look guilty, but Tommy has studied Nash’s career, and they both know exactly where he’d gotten his ham handed idea from. The expression on Nash’s face tells him everything he needs to know about how quickly he’ll end up a healthy scratch if he tries it again.

Tommy’s still working through his wording, five hours later, when he settles into his room in Boston. Tomorrow’s a rest day, nothing but a coaches meeting on the books, so regardless of how things go with Buck, he’s at least got the advantage of a full day where they’re not required to speak to each other, once Tommy’s said his piece. He’ll give Buck the night, let him sleep off whatever agitation had had him so hot all day, knock on his door in the morning and apologize, maybe convince him to grab another coffee, if the apology goes decently.

And if not, he’ll have the day to lick his wounds and remind himself that he’d absolutely known he was setting himself up to hurt his own feelings.

He’s eternally grateful his trade had happened so early, because he’d heard rumblings on the plane ride over that the Altitude team was planning a half-day of get-to-know-the-new-guys coverage, and he’s already done his thirty-minute sit down with Keefe.

The knock on his door startles him out of his reverie, and when he swings the door open, he doesn’t know exactly what he’s expecting, but it sure as hell isn’t the chagrined, lopsided smile of Evan Buckley, leaning against the door frame and looking contrite.

“Buck. Hi.”

Buck’s chest rises with the deep breath he takes.

“Hi,” he says, and in the dim hallway light, with his shoulders turned in on themselves, he looks suddenly vulnerable and tired. “Can we talk?”

[marblish0220]

Pirate Roope and Cook Jason from “listening through seashells” by dewclaw on ao3

“‘Can you speak? Or are you mute?’ the captain sniffed. A jolt of annoyance shot through Jason.

He wanted to live. Every ship needed a cook, right? Even pirates weren’t an exception.

‘I’m not mute,’ Jason spoke, wondering if he’d regret this, but unable to keep himself from trying, ‘And, yes, I… I’m the ship’s cook.’”

[theemporium]

wyatt being so excited for the first day of snow and drags his gf out of their warm bed to play in the snow together

thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

.

“Babe.”

“Hm?”

“Baby.”

“Mhm?” 

“Oh darling, light of my life, apple of my—”

You let out a small noise of both protest and confusion, pulling the back a little to find your boyfriend sat over the sheets beside you in bed, grinning down at you like he was practically buzzing out of his skin. You squinted a little at the light filling the room, every cell in your body begging for you to roll over and go back to sleep.

“What time is it?” You managed to mutter out, pressing the heels of your palms against your eyes to try and rub the sleep away.

“Who cares,” Wyatt waved you off, reaching for your hand to both hold and tug on. “It’s snowing!”

You blinked. “What?”

“It’s snowing,” Wyatt repeated, as excited as a hyperactive golden retriever would be. 

“It’s snowing?” You repeated.

Wyatt nodded.

“Here?” You questioned.

He nodded again.

“In Dallas, Texas?” You asked, wondering if this was some weird prank the boy was trying to pull on you at some ungodly hour of the morning. You vaguely tried to wrack your brain if Wyatt had mentioned a morning practice last night, distantly wondered if this was him trying to get you up early with him.

You were going to kill him if it was.

“Yes!” Wyatt answered gleefully, looking so genuinely excited and—as much as you loved your boyfriend—he was no actor. You doubted he would be able to pull off a performance this well unless it was true.

“How the fuck is it snowing in Texas?” You muttered, a little more awake but nowhere near ready to get out of bed yet.

“Because we are actually in Toronto,” Wyatt beamed, watching the way the realisation dawned on you. It had completely slipped your mind that you had flown out late last night to spend a few days with Wyatt’s family, that the bed you were in was not the one in your shared apartment but in Wyatt’s bedroom back home.

“You’re such a dick,” you groaned as you pressed your face against the pillow, ignoring the way his laugh made your heart jump—in a good way.

“But you’re so cute when you’re confused,” Wyatt cooed, narrowly avoiding the way you swung your hand out in his direction. He instead grabbed it, squeezing it softly before leaning down to peck your cheek. “C’mon, it’s been ages since I’ve had a proper snowy Christmas.”

“Good for you. I’m happy here.”

“Didn’t realise you were scared to lose in a snowball fight.” 

You paused. “You fucking wish.”

Wyatt beamed. “Come outside and prove it, babe.”

“Dick.”

“Love you.”

“Yeah, I guess I love you too.”

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