#best bbq in calgary

[bookjanecatering]

Here's the success story of Jane Bond BBQ, exploring the driving factors behind our success, what sets us apart, our essence, and our unique superpower that positions us among the best restaurants in Calgary. To discover how we turn pain into power, check out our blog.

[janebondbbqs]

Discover the Ultimate Calgary BBQ Restaurant experience at Jane's Bond BBQ

Discover the ultimate Calgary BBQ restaurant experience at Jane's Bond BBQ. Indulge in mouthwatering smoked meats, tender ribs, and delectable sides in a warm and inviting ambiance. Elevate your dining with the best BBQ in town. Visit us for an unforgettable culinary journey!

[janebondbbqblog]

Taste Paradise: BBQ Chicken Lemon in Calgary

Searching for a tantalizing dining experience? Look no further! We offer BBQ chicken lemon in Calgary that will delight your taste buds. This exquisite blend of smoky barbecue flavors and tangy citrus is an extraordinary culinary adventure. Join us at our Calgary restaurant today and relish the sensational goodness!

[mirchicalgary]

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the best BBQ in Calgary NE at Mirchi Calgary Northeast. Dive into a flavor-packed journey with expertly grilled meats, infused with a symphony of spices and marinated to perfection. Experience a remarkable dining experience that showcases the vibrant culinary heritage of India in the heart of NE Calgary.

[panicinthestudio]

Chinatown staple Diamond Bakery closes as owner retires, July 2, 2023

'Diamond Bakery has been a Calgary favourite and certainly a Chinatown go-to for BBQ pork buns, egg tarts and deep-fried pork dumplings,' said Ward 7 Coun. Terry Wong

A decades-long fixture in Calgary’s Chinatown is closing shop, as its owner celebrates moving into retirement. In a social media post, the Chinatown Business Improvement Area commended owner Henry Chan for his 30 years running the bakery. “Henry Chan is one of the kindest and most hard-working merchants you will find in Chinatown and we wish him all the best in his retirement,” they wrote. Ward 7 Coun. Terry Wong is a former executive director of the Chinatown BIA. He said Diamond Bakery will be missed, but that there will be an opportunity for a new business to make its home in Chinatown. “Diamond Bakery has been a Calgary favourite and certainly a Chinatown go-to for BBQ pork buns, egg tarts and deep-fried pork dumplings that we’re going to miss,” Wong said. “We wish the owner a great retirement and look forward to another great Chinatown cultural offering.” City council recently approved a plan that aims to grow the historic Chinatown while preserving the downtown area’s cultural heritage. That plan will involve new infrastructure development, including mixed-use residential-commercial buildings and public spaces, with developers needing to meet certain Asian esthetic requirements in their designs. Jason Herring for the Calgary Herald

Further reading:

My go-to for Hong Kong bakery staples like pineapple buns, coconut and egg tarts, and cocktail buns. They had an even wider selection of when I was a kid: 缽仔糕, 白糖糕, fried curry beef bun, wedding pastries, and until the pandemic their selection of mooncakes. The original must-have was their large palmiers--the kind a kid should probably split in two but didn't because there was always the promise you'd have another next week.

"Staple" doesn't quite illustrate the institutional position, it was the oldest independent Chinese bakery in the city and provided a very specific sense of home for so many of us. 老板, his staff, and Diamond Bakery are an integral part of the story Calgary's Chinatown. We were all so lucky to have shared in their warmth.

[nwtmaxx2210]

Basha Bites: Savor the Best Middle Eastern Cuisine in Calgary

If you’re in Calgary and looking for a true taste of the Middle East, look no further than Basha Bites. Nestled inside Basha Foods International, Basha Bites offers an authentic and mouthwatering array of Middle Eastern dishes for takeout and delivery. Since opening its doors in 2024, Basha Bites has quickly become a local favorite, bringing the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Middle Eastern food culture straight to your doorstep.

Whether you’re craving a classic shawarma, a BBQ feast, or indulging in sweet Arabic treats, Basha Bites is the go-to spot for delicious and satisfying meals.

Discover Middle Eastern Food in Calgary arabic sweets near me

Calgary is a melting pot of culinary experiences, and Basha Bites is proud to be part of the city's diverse food scene. If you’re searching for "restaurants Calgary near me" that serve flavorful, well-crafted Middle Eastern food, Basha Bites is the place to be. With a carefully curated menu that features iconic dishes from across the Middle East, we offer something for every palate.

From the smoky, tender meats of our BBQ platters to the aromatic spices of our famous shawarma, every bite at Basha Bites transports you to the bustling streets of Beirut or Cairo. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a seasoned fan, you’re sure to find something to love on our menu.

The Best Chicken Shawarma Plate in Calgary  

When it comes to shawarma, quality is key, and Basha Bites takes pride in serving the best Chicken Shawarma Plate in Calgary. Our shawarma is marinated in a blend of traditional spices, slowly roasted to perfection, and served with fresh sides like hummus, garlic sauce, and pickled vegetables. The flavors of tender, juicy chicken wrapped in warm pita bread or served as a plate are simply unmatched.   

Perfect for lunch or dinner, our Chicken Shawarma Plate is one of the most popular items on the menu, and it’s easy to see why. It’s hearty, flavorful, and gives you a complete meal in one dish, all while satisfying your craving for authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

Best Shawarma Restaurant in Calgary

If you’re searching for the best shawarma restaurant in Calgary, Basha Bites should be at the top of your list. Our commitment to quality and tradition sets us apart from other shawarma spots in the city. Each shawarma wrap or plate is crafted with care, using only the freshest ingredients and the most authentic recipes.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap

We don’t just serve shawarma—we celebrate it. Our shawarma dishes are a nod to the rich street food culture of the Middle East, where this beloved dish has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you opt for the classic chicken shawarma or something heartier like our Family Shawarma Feast, you’re sure to leave Basha Bites with a satisfied appetite and a smile on your face. 

BBQ Calgary Restaurant: A Middle Eastern Twist

At Basha Bites, we’re also known for our incredible BBQ. If you’re looking for a BBQ Calgary restaurant with a Middle Eastern twist, our BBQ platters are a must-try. From tender grilled lamb to savory kebabs, our BBQ offerings bring together the best of Middle Eastern grilling traditions with bold, smoky flavors that are sure to impress.  

Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, our BBQ platters come with all the fixings—rice, salad, bread, and our signature sauces. Whether you’re a fan of juicy beef kebabs or succulent lamb chops, we’ve got something for every BBQ lover at Basha Bites.

Arabic Sweets Near Me: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

No Middle Eastern meal is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Basha Bites offers some of the best Arabic sweets near me. From flaky, nutty baklava to creamy, rosewater-infused desserts, our selection of Arabic sweets is the perfect way to end your meal on a high note.

Each of our desserts is made with traditional ingredients and techniques, ensuring that you get an authentic taste of the Middle East in every bite. Whether you’re indulging in our sweets for a special occasion or just treating yourself, you’ll find that our desserts are the perfect balance of rich, sweet, and satisfying.

The Perfect Chicken Shawarma Wrap

For a quick and tasty meal on the go, our Chicken Shawarma Wrap is the ideal choice. Packed with marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces, our shawarma wrap is both flavorful and filling. It’s the perfect handheld meal for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, offering the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and satisfying.

If you’re craving a delicious wrap that hits all the right notes, Basha Bites has got you covered. With every bite of our shawarma wrap, you’ll experience the perfect blend of spices, textures, and flavors that make this dish a fan favorite. Middle Eastern food Calgary

Experience the Best Middle Eastern Food in Calgary

At Basha Bites, we are passionate about bringing the flavors of the Middle East to Calgary. Whether you’re in the mood for shawarma, BBQ, or a sweet treat, our menu is full of dishes that showcase the best of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Order online or stop by for takeout, and let us bring the vibrant, authentic tastes of the Middle East to your table. With our convenient location inside Basha Foods International, we make it easy for you to enjoy the flavors you love without the hassle.

Experience the best Middle Eastern food in Calgary at Basha Bites—your one-stop shop for delicious, authentic cuisine.

[readmypost]

Basha Bites: Savor the Best Middle Eastern Cuisine in Calgary

If you’re in Calgary and looking for a true taste of the Middle East, look no further than Basha Bites. Nestled inside Basha Foods International, Basha Bites offers an authentic and mouthwatering array of Middle Eastern dishes for takeout and delivery. Since opening its doors in 2024, Basha Bites has quickly become a local favorite, bringing the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Middle Eastern food culture straight to your doorstep.

Whether you’re craving a classic shawarma, a BBQ feast, or indulging in sweet Arabic treats, Basha Bites is the go-to spot for delicious and satisfying meals.

Discover Middle Eastern Food in Calgary

Calgary is a melting pot of culinary experiences, and Basha Bites is proud to be part of the city's diverse food scene. If you’re searching for "restaurants Calgary near me" that serve flavorful, well-crafted Middle Eastern food, Basha Bites is the place to be. With a carefully curated menu that features iconic dishes from across the Middle East, we offer something for every palate.

From the smoky, tender meats of our BBQ platters to the aromatic spices of our famous shawarma, every bite at Basha Bites transports you to the bustling streets of Beirut or Cairo. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a seasoned fan, you’re sure to find something to love on our menu.

The Best Chicken Shawarma Plate in Calgary

When it comes to shawarma, quality is key, and Basha Bites takes pride in serving the best Chicken Shawarma Plate in Calgary. Our shawarma is marinated in a blend of traditional spices, slowly roasted to perfection, and served with fresh sides like hummus, garlic sauce, and pickled vegetables. The flavors of tender, juicy chicken wrapped in warm pita bread or served as a plate are simply unmatched.

Perfect for lunch or dinner, our Chicken Shawarma Plate is one of the most popular items on the menu, and it’s easy to see why. It’s hearty, flavorful, and gives you a complete meal in one dish, all while satisfying your craving for authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

Best Shawarma Restaurant in Calgary

If you’re searching for the best shawarma restaurant in Calgary, Basha Bites should be at the top of your list. Our commitment to quality and tradition sets us apart from other shawarma spots in the city. Each shawarma wrap or plate is crafted with care, using only the freshest ingredients and the most authentic recipes.

We don’t just serve shawarma—we celebrate it. Our shawarma dishes are a nod to the rich street food culture of the Middle East, where this beloved dish has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you opt for the classic chicken shawarma or something heartier like our Family Shawarma Feast, you’re sure to leave Basha Bites with a satisfied appetite and a smile on your face.

BBQ Calgary Restaurant: A Middle Eastern Twist

At Basha Bites, we’re also known for our incredible BBQ. If you’re looking for a BBQ Calgary restaurant with a Middle Eastern twist, our BBQ platters are a must-try. From tender grilled lamb to savory kebabs, our BBQ offerings bring together the best of Middle Eastern grilling traditions with bold, smoky flavors that are sure to impress.

Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, our BBQ platters come with all the fixings—rice, salad, bread, and our signature sauces. Whether you’re a fan of juicy beef kebabs or succulent lamb chops, we’ve got something for every BBQ lover at Basha Bites.

Arabic Sweets Near Me: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

No Middle Eastern meal is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Basha Bites offers some of the best Arabic sweets near me. From flaky, nutty baklava to creamy, rosewater-infused desserts, our selection of Arabic sweets is the perfect way to end your meal on a high note.

Each of our desserts is made with traditional ingredients and techniques, ensuring that you get an authentic taste of the Middle East in every bite. Whether you’re indulging in our sweets for a special occasion or just treating yourself, you’ll find that our desserts are the perfect balance of rich, sweet, and satisfying.

The Perfect Chicken Shawarma Wrap

For a quick and tasty meal on the go, our Chicken Shawarma Wrap is the ideal choice. Packed with marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces, our shawarma wrap is both flavorful and filling. It’s the perfect handheld meal for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, offering the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and satisfying.

If you’re craving a delicious wrap that hits all the right notes, Basha Bites has got you covered. With every bite of our shawarma wrap, you’ll experience the perfect blend of spices, textures, and flavors that make this dish a fan favorite.

Experience the Best Middle Eastern Food in Calgary

At Basha Bites, we are passionate about bringing the flavors of the Middle East to Calgary. Whether you’re in the mood for shawarma, BBQ, or a sweet treat, our menu is full of dishes that showcase the best of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Order online or stop by for takeout, and let us bring the vibrant, authentic tastes of the Middle East to your table. With our convenient location inside Basha Foods International, we make it easy for you to enjoy the flavors you love without the hassle.

Experience the best Middle Eastern food in Calgary at Basha Bites—your one-stop shop for delicious, authentic cuisine.

[rayzplumbing]

Discover the best Best BBQ Gas Line Solutions in Calgary | Rayz Plumbing

If you are looking for best BBQ gas line solutions in Calgary, look no further than Rayz Plumbing. Renowned for their excellence, Rayz Plumbing offers the best services to ensure your barbecue setup is safe and efficient. Their skilled professionals specialise in installing and repairing gas lines, guaranteeing a seamless grilling experience. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction,

[webtechnology02]

Looking for the best pizza delivery in calgary | Infinity pizza

Infinity Pizza is the go-to destination for the best pizza delivery in Calgary. With their commitment to quality and taste, they offer an exceptional heat pizza experience. Their menu features a wide variety of mouthwatering pizzas, from classic favorites like Margherita and Pepperoni to unique creations like BBQ Chicken and Mediterranean Veggie. Each pizza is made with fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of flavors, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Whether you're craving a thin crust or a deep-dish pizza, Infinity Pizza has you covered. Their efficient delivery service ensures that your pizza arrives hot and ready to enjoy. Trust Infinity Pizza for the best pizza delivery in Calgary.

[doabameatshop]

Exploring the Best Chinese Meat Shops in Calgary: A Guide

Sure, I can help you with that! Here are some of the best Chinese meat shops in Calgary that you can check out:

T&T Supermarket — T&T Supermarket is one of the most well-known Asian grocery stores in Calgary. They have a wide selection of fresh meats, including Chinese-style barbecue pork (char siu), roasted duck, and more. Their meat section is well-stocked and the quality is excellent.

Central Grand Meat Market — Central Grand Meat Market is a Chinese meat shop located in the Chinatown district of Calgary. They offer a variety of fresh meats, including pork, beef, and chicken. They also have a selection of cured meats, such as Chinese-style sausage (lap cheong).

Calgary Co-op — Calgary Co-op is a popular grocery chain in Calgary that offers a wide variety of meat products, including Chinese-style meats. They have a good selection of marinated and ready-to-cook meats, such as sweet and sour pork and spareribs.

Hong Kong Meat and BBQ House — Hong Kong Meat and BBQ House is a specialty meat shop that specializes in Chinese-style barbecue meats. They offer a variety of meats, including roasted pork, duck, and chicken. Their meats are freshly prepared and have a distinct smoky flavor.

Dragon City Mall — Dragon City Mall is a popular Asian mall in Calgary that has a number of shops selling Chinese-style meats. There are several meat shops in the mall that offer fresh and cured meats, including Chinese-style sausages and bacon.

These are just a few of the best Chinese. I hope this guide helps you find the meat products you are looking for!

[bookjanecatering]

Explore The Best BBQ Catering Restaurants in Calgary

Calgary's culinary scene just got smokier! 🔥 Looking for the best BBQ catering restaurants in Calgary? Look no further! From mouthwatering ribs to tender brisket, these spots bring the heat to your events. Get ready to satisfy those BBQ cravings in style. Hire our services today!

CalgaryBBQ #CateringDelights

[janebondbbqs]

Experience The Vibes Ultimate Calgary BBQ Restaurant

Discover the ultimate Calgary BBQ restaurant experience at Jane's Bond BBQ. Indulge in mouthwatering smoked meats, tender ribs, and delectable sides in a warm and inviting ambiance. Elevate your dining with the best BBQ in town. Visit us for an unforgettable culinary journey!

[janebondbbqblog]

Choose Calgary's Best BBQ Caterers for Unforgettable Events!

Looking to satisfy your BBQ cravings near Saddledome in Calgary? Look no further than Jane Bond BBQ, and discover more fantastic BBQ spots in the area.

1. Jane Bond BBQ: At Jane Bond BBQ, we take pride in serving the most succulent and flavorful BBQ restaurant near Saddledome. Located just a stone's throw away, we offer a delectable selection of smoked meats and delicious sides. From tender ribs and juicy pulled pork to mouth watering brisket, our menu has it all. Don't forget to try our signature BBQ sauce for an unforgettable flavor experience!

2. Barbecue Bliss: Located near Saddledome, "Barbecue Bliss" is another top-notch BBQ joint. Their meats and sides are a delight, and their BBQ sauce is a game-changer.

3. Smokehouse Delights: For an authentic BBQ experience, visit "Smokehouse Delights." Their slow-cooked meats are melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

4. Grilled Goodness: "Grilled Goodness" offers delicious and budget-friendly BBQ options near Saddledome, making it a great choice for those looking for both taste and affordability.

5. Family BBQ Joint: "Family BBQ Joint" is the go-to place for a family-friendly BBQ experience near Saddledome. Their homestyle BBQ dishes are loved by all ages.

6. Saddledome BBQ Hub: Right in the heart of Saddledome's surroundings, the "Saddledome BBQ Hub" offers a unique BBQ experience, combining tradition with innovation.

When you're attending an event at Saddledome or simply exploring the area, be sure to satisfy your BBQ cravings at these fantastic restaurants. The flavor-packed adventure awaits, and it's just a short walk from the excitement of Saddledome

[mirchicalgary]

Halal food is basically a non-vegetarian dish that is prepared by slaughtering the meat really slowly and then cooking it well by marinating it with flavorful ingredients to provide a different taste. In order to get that different and delicious taste, people prefer to visit the best halal food restaurant and have a mesmerizing experience. But before doing that, people usually get some myths in their minds that sometimes stop them from visiting these kinds of places. So, in order to break those myths about the best halal food restaurant in Calgary, NE, we are here with this really informative blog.

[janebondbbq]

Jane Bond BBQ is the ultimate BBQ restaurant in Calgary. At Jane Bond BBQ, we offer a tremendous array of tasty BBQ meals, sandwiches, bunwiches, salads and more. Our menu includes Brisket, Pork Belly, Ribs, Jerk Chicken, BBQ Chicken, Fried Catfish and Chorizo Links! We also offer Smoked Brisket Poutine, Chili N Cheese Fries, Fried Pickle Sticks and Thick Cut O’Rings. More so, we provide BBQ catering in Calgary.

[troubatrain]

tis the damn season - m. tkachuk

a/n: as we all know, i am an absolute whore for a christmas fic and when i listened to evermore yesterday i knew this needed to be done. i literally haven’t written anything this fast in forever but i hope you guys like it!! (also tagging @igor-shestyorkin​ @blueskrugs​ & @fenwaynightlights​ for reading this last night and telling me it was good so i’d actually finish it ily)

The second you walked into the party, Matthew’s eyes didn’t leave you. He knew you were coming, but watching you step into his parent’s house with a plate of your famous chocolate chip cookies and a smile that made his heart skip a beat, was almost taunting him. You dated forever ago, the last real relationship Matthew had ever been in, and by the looks of it - it was staying like that. You greeted everyone, down to the biggest hug to his grandparents who swore you were going to be Matthew’s wife one day. That was because that’s just how you were, kind and smart and constantly impressing anyone who Matthew introduced you too. Every teammate he had at the time loved you, and he knew if you were in Calgary his team now would be the same. Brady adored you, even admitting to his brother he still called you for girl advice because if Matthew fumbled the bag when it came to you there was no way Brady should take his advice. Matthew couldn’t even think about your relationship with his sister, or how crushed she was when you broke up. Then there was his parents, his mom swore it would be okay. That it was just Matthew’s first love and eventually he’d find his forever but he knew she was lying. Matthew found forever with you, and he let it implode because his dream was just more important at the time. Now, he could be at the top of the world and none of it mattered because you weren’t by his side.

Matthew just felt dumb now, because you were on to bigger and better things and you weren’t hung up on your high school ex-boyfriend. You went off to college, crushed it, and moved back into St. Louis with a near perfect job offer and success practically radiating off of you. He was standing in his kitchen in the worst Bud Light Christmas sweater like an eighteen year old frat boy and you looked every bit like the goddess Matthew knew you were. The perfect Christmas red dress you were wearing sat on your frame flawless, and it was obvious that red was still your color.

“I can leave if you want me to?” You ask, leaning into Matthew when you finally made your way over to him. Your voice was low, mouth close to Matthew’s ear while you hugged him so no one could hear you ask. You were an infinitely better person than he was, so of course you asked him if it was okay to stay.

“You’re always welcome here, you know that,” Matthew answers, sipping his beer for some liquid courage he desperately needed.

“Just because your mom invites me doesn’t mean I need to be here,” You shrug, “Maybe you’ve got someone here…”

He would never. Matthew had never even considered it, what it would be like to bring someone home that wasn’t you. There wasn’t one person in Calgary who could measure up, and despite the fact that his family loved him and would accept anyone with open arms, deep down Matthew knew you would always be on their minds.

“I don’t,” Matthew says, trying to stop himself from wrapping his arm around your waist while you stand with your chest still pressed against his from your hello hug, “I mean what would be the point? They don’t make cookies like you do.”

Matthew had to joke, cover up the fact that he was never able to let go of what you had and choke it down with beer he was drinking. He liked seeing you, the same times he did every year. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the occasional summer BBQ was something he looked forward to, sometimes he even hoped for an extra reason for you to both be somewhere. He knew you’d come, because you wouldn’t dare deny his mother’s invitation.

“Of course you noticed I made them,” You rolled your eyes, pushing Matthew back jokingly, “Remember when you used to beg me to make them-”

You stopped yourself when you noticed where this was going, you never brought up the before times. The times when Matthew would give you his best puppy dog eyes for you to bake him something, followed by a plea to just look the other way when he devoured the entire plate.

“Maybe it’s best we broke up, I probably never would’ve gotten drafted by eating these,” Matthew teases, sliding past you to grab a cookie off the counter and taking a big bite, “Because fuck these are good.”

Matthew’s moans in delight sent a chill up your spine. You hated that he could still do that to you, because it was the same thing every time. You’d see him, and for a moment you’d think that this would work itself out. You could get back together, and falling in love would be just as sweet a second time, but it wouldn’t work. You were settling into your own, a fresh lease signed in your new apartment you were going to move into after New Year’s, and Matthew was going to go back to Calgary where he was a big deal. That was always the dream, to make it big in the league and make his parents proud. Matthew was doing it, not that you ever doubted him, but you were proud nonetheless.

The thing was, because Matthew was doing the damn thing, he gave up you. It was like a deal he made with the devil when he was seventeen, he could have everything he ever wanted if he didn’t have you to hold him back. You always knew that was why he broke up with you, it was the right person at the wrong time.

“It’s nice to see you Matthew,” You muse, biting the inside of your cheeks to hold back the grin on your face. You stopped the conversation before it started, constantly trying to make this as painless as possible, but it wasn’t always easy.

“Wait, uh, you’re going to be here until Christmas right?” Matthew asks, grabbing your attention before you slipped out of the kitchen. Matthew was hopeful, catching a flight a few days earlier than he usually could and landing before Christmas gave him more time to see you.

“I’ll be at my parents house,” You nod, thinking about your childhood bedroom that was currently covered in moving boxes while you waited to settle into your new place.

“Oh sweet,” Matthew takes another swing of his drink, trying to keep his cool because you were the only person who made him completely uncool.

“Yeah, sweet, I’ll see you around,” You wave, disappearing into the kitchen. Matthew takes a deep breath, collecting his thoughts for a minute until Brady stepped in front of him. His little brother scoffed, a stupid smirk on his face when he finally spoke.

“Dude that was painful to watch.”

***

Matthew had no idea what the fuck he was doing. His feet were just carrying all two hundred and two pounds of his body in the exact direction of your house. He was drunk, well over the limit of how many whiskey shots he could even handle. He looked at his watch, it was almost three in the morning but if he didn’t get it out now when would he ever. He loved you, and all he could think about is what would happen if he could have just had one more night with you. Maybe you’d feel it, you’d always been pretty intuitive with his feelings, because he was awful with them. He had to make his case, did he even have one?

Oh hey Y/N, I know I’m hammered and it’s three in the morning the day before Christmas Eve but I want you to know I’m still in love with you.

That wouldn’t work, and he was going to have to do better than that. He could turn around and go home, but if he had to watch another one of your Instagram stories and pray that whoever was in them wasn’t your boyfriend again - he would lose his mind before he made it to the holidays next year. He snuck past the gate into your yard, not surprised to see your whole house was sleeping quietly. He picked up a few pebbles from your mother’s garden, shaking them in his hand and hoping you remembered the way he let you know he was outside when you’d sneak out in high school.

One.

Two.

Three.

You were woken up by the sound of three pebbles hitting your window, and you rub your eyes in disbelief by what you were hearing. Matthew wasn’t outside your window at three in the morning looking for you, why would he even think about it? 

“What the hell are you doing?” You ask, poking your head out the window and crossing your arms to battle the cool air blowing through.

“Come down?” Matthew asks, wiping his palms on the back of his jeans and giving you his best smile. A real one, because you’d always been able to tell when it was fake.

You should’ve closed the window, and pushed Matthew to the back of your mind until you found yourself creeping on his Instagram again. You were always a good listener, and you always tried to do the right thing but Matthew was your vice. He’d always been a little bit a bad boy, but never enough to stop you from coming back for more. So you opened your window a little more, slipping down and scaling down your house just like you used to.

Matthew could have pretended like he didn’t notice, his last name faded on the back of the hoodie you were wearing, but he couldn’t. You looked just as cute in it as you did all of those years before, “Seven was such a good number on you, I wish I could have kept it.”

You could feel the heat on your cheeks, hoping Matthew couldn’t catch it in the moonlight, “Why are you here?”

“I want one more night,” Matthew takes a deep breath, standing his ground, “I, uh fuck-”

Matthew Tkachuk had never been good with words. He put his foot in his mouth, all the time, but his plea was something you never thought you’d hear. It was Christmas, you were lonely, and a part of you wondered the same thing. So you said fuck it and decided that this was your problem later, pressing your lips to Matthew’s. Your hands gripped his shirt, trying to get as close to him as you could. Matthew was dumbfounded, wrapping his arms around your waist, his fingers digging into your sides.

“Can you be quiet?” You ask, pointing at the back door. It was the middle of the night and your parents room was on the first floor but if Matthew was quiet enough you could get him upstairs easily - you used to do it all the time.

Matthew nodded eagerly, following you inside and tip-toeing up the stairs. He was doing a terrible job, either he’d gotten bigger or the floors in your parents house had gotten creakier.

“You said you could be quiet,” You tease, letting Matthew push you against the door, he twisted the lock, smirking at you.

“I’m a lot bigger than I used to be,” Matthew declares, fake puffing out his chest.

“I noticed…” You muse, running over your hands over his shoulders. He’d gotten broader with age, and it wasn’t something that was lost on you. You press your lips to his, throwing your hands around his neck and pulling him closer. Your fingers crept up to his curls, tugging on them slightly. Matthew smirked against your lips, “I missed that.”

“I missed you,” Matthew mutters, wrapping your legs around his waist to bring you to your bed. You squeal, tucking your head into shoulder to stop the noise, “Who’s the loud one now?”

“Well don’t stop kissing me then,” You tease, grabbing Matthew and pulling him on top of you. You worked quickly, a pile of clothes in the corner of your that was going to be addressed later. Matthew’s lips were on your neck, his finger circling your clit while you bit your lip hold back a moan, “Matty please-”

The nickname slipped your lips so easily it was like you never should have stopped calling him that. Matthew took notice, and it was like music to his ears, “Anything you want babe.”

“Fuck me,” You breathe out, desperate for as much of him as you could get. Matthew slipped out of his boxers, pumping himself a few times before he gave you a look. You nodded, giving him the go ahead and pulling his lips back to yours. Matthew slipped inside you, and it’d never felt better.

Matthew was better now, much much better. His hips were snapping into you, a near perfect pace while grunts left his lips. The pleasure was almost too much, and you could feel your nails scratching into his back while you bit into his shoulder to keep yourself quiet. His hand snaked down to your clit, “Cum for me babe, c’mon.”

You clenched around him, the sensation was enough to send Matthew over the edge, spilling into you. He dropped to his elbows, placing lazy kisses on your skin while you basked in the post sex glow. Matthew’s skin was glistening against the moonlight from your window, his breath in your ear while you caught yours and it all felt right.

“You know you have to go now,” You remind him, “My dad will murder you if he catches you up here.”

“I know,” Matthew bumps his nose against yours, pressing one more kiss to your lips, “I’ll see you tomorrow? Or later?”

Later. It had completely slipped your mind that in just a few hours you were going to be forced to run an annual day before Christmas Eve 5k with the Tkachuk’s like you did every year. The idea was somehow worse than doing it on Thanksgiving, and now you had to see Matthew after you let him fuck you in your childhood bedroom. You watched Matthew dress himself, hopping out your window and back to his own house.

Now you just needed some sleep.

***

You felt like shit, and you were missing the iced coffee you didn’t have a chance to get while you trailed behind your parents to meet the Tkachuk’s. You greeted everyone, stopping at Matthew last, you were unsure of how to even greet him after what you’d just done a few hours before. He didn’t think anything of it, wrapping an arm around you and pulling you into his chest.

“Here,” Matthew says, nudging his cup towards you. You assumed it was coffee, but then the taste of a mimosa hit your tongue.

“Jeez,” You choke, coughing while you take down the champagne with just a hint of orange juice.

“Do you think I was going to run this sober? You wore me out last night,” Matthew teases, and he could feel Brady’s gaze on him.

The wheels in Brady’s head were turning. He was suspicious, catching Matthew sneak back into the house early in the morning, and now watching the two of you - it was clear. It became even clearer when they started running, because Brady knew Matthew wasn’t that slow and he didn’t wasn’t going to let Brady beat him. He was though, jogging behind Brady with you and laughing at whatever you said. There was one thing that was clear, Matthew got over his dumb fear of talking to you and finally did. His brother was happy, but he couldn’t help but feel like he was going to watch this explode in your faces in a few days. Matthew would go back to Calgary and just the first time you broke, it was going to be ugly.

***

The winter in St. Louis was brisk, but Matthew’s warm body next to you was enough to fight it. Your head was on his chest, and you were snoring softly. Matthew picked you up a few hours after you got home, driving up to the same lake you snuck off to in high school. He stole Brady’s truck, driving off with a bunch of blankets without giving Brady an answer as to where he was going. It was supposed to be romantic, but you’d always been prone to falling asleep when you were with him.

Matthew didn’t have a complaint in the world, you slept the same way you used to. Your head on his chest, a leg tangled with his and your hands clutched to his shirt so he couldn’t move. He wasn’t going anywhere. Matthew would let you sleep the entire day away if he could have. He carded his hands through your hair, a content sigh leaving his lips.

Matthew often wondered what would have happened if you never broke up. If you’d followed him to Calgary and what that would have been like. Maybe you’d still be together, and after all these years he’d start looking for a ring. If you’d buy a house together, maybe even be that family that houses wayward hockey players just like his parents did. You’d be the person he got to share looks with across the room when he was forced to have conversations he didn’t want to have. He’d get to take you family skates and you’d get to see him play and you’d live happily ever after.

Reality was always much more cruel, and it wasn't pretty. You had a life in St. Louis, one that didn’t include him. You were moving along in your life just fine without him. You didn’t need Matthew and it was dumb of him to think you’d drop it all for him. You never asked him to stay, and it would be unfair to ask you to wait around.

“I can hear you thinking, you might start to malfunction soon bubs,” You whisper, your voice still laced with sleep. You meant to run a hand through his hair, but the palm of your hand just hit his forehead while you moved it back down slowly. Matthew chuckles, the silly nicknames you gave him seemed to come out without a second thought, and it felt good to be called any of them by you.

“Just thinking about you,” Matthew breathes, and you pick up your head. Matthew shoots you a smile, but you knew he was faking it.

“Matty-” You take one deep breath, “Don’t ask me to come with you, you know it’s not fair to me.”

Your voice was cracking, pleading Matthew to just not have this conversation. You weren’t ready for it, because it meant accepting defeat. The universe wasn’t going to allow you to be together, and that’s just how it was going to be.

“I don’t want to go back to Calgary,” Matthew whispers, more to himself than you. He did want to go back, but he wanted to go back with you.

“You have to,” You sit up, a chill running through your body from the loss of Matthew’s body next to yours. You rub your arms to warm up, “You have to because we’re just not going to make it work Matty.”

Matthew nods solemnly, like his heart just broke all over again. You were right, you always were, it just seemed naïve to think you’d both be any different now than you were the first time, “Let me take you home.”

The car ride was awkward. The only thing cutting through the silence was the Christmas music playing on the radio. You sat with your head pressed against the window, counting down the streets until you finally hit yours. Matthew halted the car, and you gave him one more look before you stepped out of the car, “Tell your parents I said Merry Christmas.”

“I will,” Matthew nods, and those were the last words you heard him say before you walked up your stairs. Matthew waited for you to be inside before he drove off, a small part of him hoping you’d run back to the car and tell him you wanted him too. You didn’t, and that was just how it was going to be.

***

Christmas was awful, the past two days seemed to pass were pure agony. You were sad, and knowing Matthew was about three blocks and four houses away wasn’t helping. You were counting down the hours until he was back in Calgary, away from you and you could finally grieve him for the final time. The last nail in the coffin of what was once your first love had yet to be hammered in but once he was gone that would settle it.

You had two more hours until you knew his flight would leave, and you were so close to the finish line you could taste it. You were home alone, your parents still making their way to a few neighbors' houses to spend the last few moments of the holiday with their friends. You were sulking, a wine bottle stolen from your mother’s collection and the Grinch on your TV. 

A doorbell was the only thing to interrupt you, and you could see a tuft of curly hair through the window. Matthew was standing outside your door, pacing back and forth while he waited for you to open it. You thought about acting like you weren’t home, maybe he’d leave and never come back. You opened it, not even having a chance to open your mouth before he spoke.

“Come with me,” Matthew pleads, “I love you, I still do and I always have and we’re meant to be together. There isn’t anyone I want more by my side than you, and I know it’ll be hard but I’m not ready to let you slip through my fingers again.”

“Matthew-” You interrupt grabbing his arm to stop his pacing, “Listen to yourself.”

“I am, and I want this, I never wanted to give up you and I just can’t fly back there with people who don’t know when I’m faking a smile or when I don’t want to be somewhere,” Matthew explains, running a hand over his face, “You’re the best I’ll ever have and I want to spend the rest of my life proving that to you.”

“I’ll come until New Year’s,” You agree, Matthew’s face breaking out into a very real smile, “We need to talk about this Matthew.”

“You talk, I’ll listen, you can have whatever you want,” Matthew agrees, because he’d move the sun if he could for you. His lips pressed against yours, pushing you against the same front door he kissed you in front of on your first date. The porch light still flickers the way it used to while Matthew’s hands gripped your face because he was afraid to let you go. You both finally pulled, Matthew mumbling his next words against your lips.

Tis the damn season huh?