#boxing gear dallas

[simpstantruther]

Hungry Heart ch. 1 | (Mullet) Stanley Pines x Reader

(Sorry, should have posted it this way the first time. First time posting fanfiction to tumblr).

Summary: Stan needs to go to Oregon. You need to get to California. Stan has a car. You have a cunt. (Can I make it any more obvious~)

Tags: 80s Americana Roadtrip Partners-in-Crime Stan x Reader fic. Smut. You can fix him, but you're worse.

TW: Alcohol Use

Preview:

His voice gets surprisingly soft. “Can I take you home?”

“You kiddin’ me?” You spit out the ruined lime slice. ”I thought you were a bum. What home you gonna take me to? Lovely spot under a bridge?"

“I got a motel room.” He adds defensively. “It’s somethin’.”

Read on AO3.

Your arms stick to the bar top. It’s sticky enough on its own. It smells like fruit cocktail and jaeger and all the other sickly sweet mixings that bar tops get coated in, with a lovely note of pissy beer over it all.

But it’s sweltering, even with the door kicked out and the flies starting to buzz inside. There’s a sheen of sweat over all your bare skin, sticking your thighs uncomfortably to your wooden stool. Your jean shorts are too short, and the high waist is digging into your ribs. 

You hate Dallas.

Stupid bartender cut you off two songs ago.

You hate this stupid bar, too.

You weren’t drunk. Not really. Just buzzed enough to tell him to shove a broken bottle up his ass when he snapped your bra strap from across the bar.

But he let you sit at the bar anyways. He was sweet like that. You feel pitiable, alone like this. Maybe he can tell. Maybe he hopes that if he lets you stay and no one else picks up the slack, you’ll let him take you home.

You’re not drunk enough for that. And you can afford to be choosey. Daddy always said you were a pretty girl. He told you to kill yourself before you weren't, but that was besides the point. 

You look at the stained mirror backing the bar. Dark circles under your eyes. Your hair is a mess. Your eyeliner is from three days ago, a dark stain under your bottom eyelashes. You're young, but you don't want to guess how much longer you'll have left by dear old dad's measure. Not the way you're living.  

You're not drunk, you're just reminiscing. 

“Got a wife and kids in Baltimore jack—“

You snap over to the juke box, playing the same fucking song again for the fifth time. Some mulleted asshole with sweat and beer stains over his white t-shirt croons along poorly, drunkenly leaning against the wall beside it.

“I go for a drive and never come back—“

“Not a-fucking-gain.” You groan, head in your hands. 

“What? Who’s got a problem with Springsteen?” He barks. The mellow rock continues without him.

You don’t turn. You’re not drunk, just a little on edge from the heat. You slide off your stool painfully and stumble. And okay, you’re drunker than you realize.

You point an accusing finger at the blurry man who stomps toward you. 

“If I wanted to hear someone butcher Bruce Springsteen songs, I’d toss quarters at the poor bastard with the chipped cup outside. At least he knows the god damn lyrics—“ 

You blink as he comes into focus. 

Dammit. 

He was cute, in a bring-me-home-and-disappoint-your-parents kind of way. Or if Kurt Russel had like, a really bad year. Square jaw. Scruffy chin. Bulbous nose, broken at least a few times. Baby beer gut. Big, broad shoulders. Narrow hips. God. Was he wearing fucking football gear or something? 

His lips stay parted like the mouth-breather he is. He looks you over too. Your loose tank top has a fallen strap, the hem hangs low over your chest. With your arms crossed, your tits look better than they are. His eyes fall to the bit of lace on your bra peeking out. It’s fine. That’s what it’s there for. 

You swallow thickly, feeling sweat crawl down your neck. 

“You played the same song five times in a row. Don’t you know the fuckin’ lyrics by now?” You mutter quietly, just enough to make him lean in and listen.

You feel his hot breath against your ear, trying to talk over the music. It smells like tequila and cheap cigarettes.

“You wanna teach it to me, Sweetheart?” 

You huff with amusement. A jersey dirtbag just like you, so far from home? What are the odds. 

He stands over you.

You imagine your thighs around his big dopey ears for a second, but the idea of his stubble tearing up your already irritated inner thighs feels unappetizing.

“Nah. Learn it yourself.” You turn. His meaty hand grabs your arm. 

“Can I buy you a drink?”

“I don’t know.” You tilt your head. “Can you?” It’s a genuine question. You both glance at the bartender who curls his lip.

“Hermano! One for the lady, por favor!”

Surprisingly, the bartender nods. You both cling to the bar, like the railing of a ship tipping over.

“He’s Italian.” You mutter under your breath, watching the bartender mix you another vodka-soda.

“Huh?” He leans his elbow on the bar beside you, his other hand coming around your other side. He’s like a furnace. You are sweating out his beer through osmosis. 

You nod to the flag hung behind the bartender and fan yourself with a damp coaster.

“It’s an Italian flag. The Mexican one has an eagle.”

“I know. I did time in Mexico.” He says it like he’s proud. Like you should care. Stupid cute smug grin. 

“Small world!” You turn towards him.

“Gettin’ smaller.” He looks amused and he coils a strand of your hair around his finger, now leaning his arm on your shoulder. “You serious? You got locked up there?”

“No.” You say, deadpanned. He laughs. You feel it, tucked against his chest.

“You’re funny.” 

“And you’re just an asshole.” You say as you sip your drink, faster than you should. 

He shrugs one shoulder dismissively. “So, you from Jersey?” He asks, knocking back a shot of tequila with only a grimace. “You sound like my Ma.”

“Born and raised. You?”

“Born and raised. Small world. Why’d you ever leave Jersey?”

“To leave Jersey. ”

He sucks his teeth. “Ain’t you got a family or somethin’?” 

“What, are you gonna kidnap me?” He laughs again. His laugh is stupid, loud, makes you wanna laugh with him. Maybe just at him. You shrug. “Followin’ my old man out west.”

“New family?”

“New everything.”

“Lucky guy. It’s harder than it sounds, starting a new life.” He sighs bitterly, nodding as the bartender refills his shooter. “Some fuckers have all the luck.” 

You hold your glass out to him. You long since drained it of alcohol, but the ice remains. You suck on one melting cube in your cheek and crunch it between your teeth. “To the unlucky bastards, then.” 

He tuts his tongue and takes the empty glass from your hand, replacing it with another shooter.

“That’s better. To the unlucky bastards.” 

You hate tequila. 

But you love free liquor.

“Salud.” You wince as it burns down your throat, shutting your eyes tightly for a moment before you open to see him watch you with his elbow on the bar top.

“Love seein’ a beautiful chick knockin’ back tequila like a champ.” He smirks.

“Love it from a distance. You’re in the splash zone.” You groan, setting back down the glass and snagging a lime from behind the bar to suck against your teeth. 

“I don’t scare easy.” 

You narrow your eyes. “You want me to yak on you?”

“If you would do me the honors.” He doesn’t flinch. Doesn’t lose his easy smile.

You smirk briefly. “Freak.” 

“I get that a lot.” The smile loosens. Just a bit. He swallows and you watch his adam’s apple bob. His voice gets surprisingly soft.

“Can I take you home?”

“You kiddin’ me?” You spit out the ruined lime slice. ”I thought you were a bum. What home you gonna take me to? Lovely spot under a bridge?"

“I got a motel room.” He adds defensively. “It’s somethin’.”

“Livin’ large.” You draw out the vowels condescendingly. As if you’re any better. “You ain’t worried I’ll rob you blind in the night, big shot?”

“Don’t got much. And if you can sneak it past me, I figure you deserve it.”

You look over him again.

You consider it, you really do. He could have been worse. You’ve had worse. Half the nights you spent on your way west were spent banging for room and board. Or at least picking guys drunk and rich enough to pay for the taxi home and pass out before they remembered to touch you. 

You should be dead. A dozen times, you wished you were. Easily, you could have been. And no one would go looking for you.

You have a feeling he understands what that’s like. Poor bastard.

But tonight, you paid for a room. And for the love of God, clean(ish) beds to yourself were in short supply. The T.V. in your room was busted and the liquor store was closed. You came here for the lovely conversation.

“Sorry. Not tonight, buddy.” You avert your eyes. “But thanks for the drinks.”

He frowns and nods, not happy with the rejection clearly but respectful enough to accept it anyways.

“Well, I’m in town a couple more days. If you need somethin’, give me a call, okay sweetheart?”

He fishes out a business card from his front jean pocket. It’s wrinkled and damp with sweat. 

The Loveshack the card says.

You pick up the card and turn it on both sides. 

“Cute.”

“I’m in room eight.” He eyes the card nervously. “Or ask for Lee.”

“Lee.” You repeat. “Thanks, Lee.” You hold your hand out to shake and give him a fake name. He holds your hand and your eyes. 

“I mean it. Give me a call.” He pleads.

You huff with mirth, sticking the card in your pocket. You haven’t heard a boy beg for a call like that since highschool.

“Alright, alright.” You slide off your barstool again, slightly more graceful than the first time. 

“Goodnight, Lee.”

“Goodnight, sweetheart. Don’t let the bed bugs bite.”

“Stupid.” You smirk at eachother as you step back towards the exit. You know he’s waiting for you to turn so he can stare at your ass.

Bruce Springsteen croons you out as you leave the bar. You hear Lee belting along. 

“Everybody’s got a hungry heart. Everybody’s got a hungry heart.”

[eisforeidolon]

Question: So as an older sibling, I relate a lot to Dean and his relationship with Sam, and I was wondering what it was like to build that relationship up on screen?

Jensen: I mean, that relationship started the moment I met Jared. And I say that because we immediately had this connection through just our - who we were. Both born and raised, y'know, similar area by similar parents, surrounded ourselves with similar friends, played the same kind of sports, had the same kind of interests. He was a little bit more nerdy than I was but that's fine. He was a mathlete, which [makes dismissive noise] - nothing against math, it's useful, but don't be a dork about it like he was. [laughs] So but when we first introduced ourselves, it was immediate, there was, it was like - Oh where are you from? Oh, San Antonio. Where are you from? Dallas? No way. You know, we'd root for the same sports teams, there was just an immediate, like, friendship that happened when we met. And so the day we met was the day that we ended up auditioning together as Dean and Sam in front of the studio and the network and everything, so. So we went from meeting each other in the waiting room of the studio to then going into another room and playing brothers. And so it was instant, that that started. And then what really solidified it was when we got the job, which was that day in the room, they were like, congratulations, you guys are the brothers Winchester. And we're like, sweet! So then they, the studio was like, alright, well let's get these guys in fighting shape. Like these brothers should know how to handle themselves. And I was like, uh, I know how to handle myself. And they're like, no no no, we know, but we're gonna help you out a little bit anyway. I'm like, alright, fine. So they put us into boxing training. We went and started working at this gym, this boxing gym, started learning, we were punching things every day. I'll never forget one time they were like, alright, it had been, like, a few weeks and we'd been working on the heavy bag, working speed bags, working on focus mitts.

Jensen: And they were like, alright, I think you guys are ready to get in the ring together. And we're like, oho. And I'm looking at him like, I'm gonna knock this tall skinny son of a bitch out. And we put the head gear on, and we were dancing around, a couple of jabs to the body, a couple punches, and then he just rocked my nose, just boom! and I was like [makes exaggerated faces] and I went back against the ropes, and I was just like, you motherfucker. And so I was back and then I went for a jab and he dodged it, and I just went [mimes throwing a punch] boom! right in the side of his ear. And he was like, and he'll tell you, he was like, it was like a bell rung [imitates bell noise, and exaggeratedly staggers]. And then, I forget, I think he just started swinging his arms wildly and then I [mimes swinging wildly] and they were like, 'Alright alright alright! We're done! You guys don't get to fight against each other any more!' And then he and I were like, yeah, I think we're better if we fight other people together, rather than each other. So that again kind of started solidifying our relationship. And then as some of you know, we ended getting up to Vancouver and we had an unfortunate incident where after a few days of filming, everything was going great, he and I were having a great time, we went to go meet a producer at a restaurant one evening after we finished work and there was a group of drunk guys that just started fighting us in the street. They mistook us for somebody that they had just gotten kicked out of a bar - because they were in, some of you know this story. They got into a thing with some other guys in a bar, they got kicked out, and then when they were coming around the side of the building, we happened to be walking that way, and they were like, 'That's them!' And Jared and I were like, 'Who?' And that's all the warning we got, and then they just started throwing punches. Jared and I had just come off of, like, eight weeks of boxing training? [mimes blowing on and polishing his knuckles] Hold my beer. We lit 'em up. And then, yeah, that's, I mean, then he and I were bonded for life and that was just a few days into filming. So if we weren't already, you know, brother types, we were definitely then and then it just kept taking shape and growing as the seasons and the years went on and so yeah. It's why my kids call him Uncle Jared.

[tapedsleeves]

(primer anon) Thank youuuu <3 <3 <3 The giant goalie hugs are SO cute 🥹 saved your sources and shall scour them on my next day off! I'd love to hear more on giant Nic hague and the other d-men (saw on cap friendly today that mcnabb and whitecloud have both been knights since season 1!) but you've already gone above and beyond helping me out and i'm sure I can find stuff in the blogs and accounts you linked if you're all worded out <3

Hi!!! sorry this took so long! It's not because it was difficult to do, but because I just had a lot going on today (i slept late and then was out / busy for most of today until now)

So, a couple of players have actually been with VGK since year one that don't get credit for it, some who were drafted by VGK (Nic Hague) and some that weren't ( Keegan Kolesar, Zach Whitecloud).

Keegan Kolesar was drafted by CBJ in 2015, but never played for them & was traded to VGK in june of 2017. He played for the Chicago Wolves (VGK, as I understand it, shared the Wolves as a dev team, since a bunch of VGK-developed guys played for them) and then played for VGK starting in 2020 (he played 1 game in 2019-2020)

Zach Whitecloud was playing for Bemidji State University in 2017-2018 when VGK signed him (he played 1 game for VGK in 2017-2018)

Hague, Kolesar & Whitecloud, despite being with the organization since practically its inception aren't considered "Golden Misfits" like Karlsson, Carrier, Smith, Marchessault, Theodore, & McNabb were (during the cup playoffs last year, Smith was traded over the summer of 2023 to the Penguins) Because they weren't part of the run to the cup final that year in 2018.

Now, that's enough just flat backstory, I think. Let's talk about defensemen. I love ALL of our defensemen.

McNabb is SO quiet? but I love him so much. When people celebrate in OT, most of the guys will go celebrate with the person who scored, but Nabber almost always goes to celebrate with the goalie first. nabber MY BRO. His notes in this video are SO cute. Hip check? Pass to Shea. Nope. SHOTS. I know this isn't much about hockey, but I just think it's really cute that Nabber had these written down. He does SO MANY reverse hipchecks on guys it's lovely to see. And Shea is his going steady d-partner, unless there's a shakeup in the d-core, then they give the baby d-man to Nabber. He's basically a capybara. Even Panda thinks so:

It's Very cute.

During warm ups, they have the lil pyramid of pucks and will carrier knocks them down when he goes out. all except for one, which he stands up on it's side. And then when Brayden comes out next to last (goalies come out last) he knocks it down. It's SUCH a cute lil ritual.

Nic Hague is so tall! His voice is so deep! He seems so Polite! Every guy tries to fight him and for the most part he refuses to engage it is SO funny. He did get kicked out of a game last year in the Dallas Series for giving a sarcastic thumbs up at a dude. He is sooo funny

and hot

he wears??? glasses??

Despite the fact that his face looks like he's never had a thought in his WHOLE LIFE when hes geared up:

He won the OHL Scholastic Player of the year in 2015-2016, the year after Connor McDavid had it on lockdown for 2 years straight.

IDK if anyone has mentioned it to you, but VGK has an emoji line up - everyone has a say in their emoji to an extent, and Haguer's is a giraffe. Well, he's got a giraffe floatie.

he took the stanley cup on it

Now for Zach Whitecloud:

I love him. That's what you have to understand. He's perfect and he's never done a crime in his entire life. His PIMs are a glitch.

He cried when he took a penalty in OT in 2020 and they lost the series to the stars. He cried IN THE BOX. It was his first season.

His defensive partner is Nic Hague. They were roommates in Chicago with the wolves. They were roommates in VGK for a bit (then Dylan Coghlan (now with the Canes) moved in, I think.)

They're SUCH good defensive partners, I LOVE them, but they're also excellent apart.

Zach is colorblind, so he often has very fancifully patterned suits / ties.

he's always holding 2 drinks. Most of the time it's 2 coffees, but this one is a coffee and a water.

An announcer was racist about his name on air, and he got really upset about it but was SO SO gracious about it.

He's from around Manitoba (literally like half the team is, it's bonkers, GMKM, you're obsessed) and he *really really* looked up to Mark Stone. He was really excited to get to play with him.

he decided to who to pick (out of a number of teams) in a bathroom

He's just. I love seeing his face. He's an excellent defenseman, he's a great guy and i love him so so so much.

Zach and Martini have this lil "SUH DUDE" handshake that they do when they win, because they both stand and wait for everyone to get off the ice before they leave, and then they do this cuteass handshake thing where they wiggle their fingers at each other. it's *adorable*

Also i forgot about this Martini mic'd up

And now i'm gonna talk about a random guy you haven't heard about before: Ben Hutton. He's our 7th defensemen who normally is a healthy scratch, but is the 1st call up when someone else is injured. He was the guy in the video where Marty and Petro were affectionately bitching at each other who agreed with Marty.

Everyone loves him. In 2022-2023, not a lot of d-men were hurt, so he didn't get to play a lot, but Bruce said that he had SUCH a good attitude & was SUCH a lovely guy. He stayed and practiced with the guys who were on IR and they joked that "they had to go thru him" to get back to playing hockey again (they were all forwards). Which I think is really really cute.

When Vancouver did a lip sync battle for their gala, he danced to barbie girl. ANd KILLED it

He doesn't really like chocolate "I'm not a big chocolate guy" says he. His birthday is 4/20. Ate like ka whole tub of strawberry lemonade flavored ice cream (he didn't eat lunch). He wasn't sure he was gonna stay in the league, but he trained with deryk engelland (a retired VGK d-man) and improved so much that they gave him a permanent roster spot.

Hutton is another one of those guys who skates to the goalie in OT instead of the guy who scored. It's VERY cute.

agreed, nic hague. that's also how i look at button

I always think it's fun to know which guys stick their tongues out when they're happy?

[starshine-hockey-girl]

At The Crossroads- Journey to the Emerald City Chapter

Summary- Teddy and Lex return to Dallas from their summer in Toronto only to find themselves pulled in multiple directions.

Word Count- 12.2K - I don't know what happened. It just got away from me. I am not even that sorry about it.

Warnings- smut (intercourse mainly), alcohol use, discussions of mental health

@pattiemac1 @penstxgal1968 @sugakookie9 @juuuuuse @hockeykittee @cellythefloshie

Last Chapter- https://www.tumblr.com/starshine-hockey-girl/710513028645453824/bridge-over-troubled-water-journey-to-the-emerald?source=share&_branch_match_id=link-1160025547917493284

Teddy and Lex’s apartment- Dallas-September 6th, 2019

Stars Center- Frisco, Texas- same morning

Lex skated back into position after completing a breakaway drill. Tyler took his position to practice his breakaway. He called over to Lex, "Hey, why won't you let Teddy come see me? What? You jealous of me all of the sudden?' 

The whistle blew and Lex skated backwards to keep pace with Tyler. He smiled as Tyler swerved to the left and Lex was able to poke check the puck off Tyler’s blade and take off it with it. He grinned as he passed Seguin, "Teddy is a free woman. If she doesn't want to come see you, then that's on you. I am secure in my position as her man." 

Tyler rolled his eyes as they reset the drill. This time Tyler out maneuvered Lex and scored easily. "Seriously, are you keeping her hostage in bed? Got her tied up to keep her in line?" Tyler chirped. 

Lex skated towards him, "What did you say? Say it again. I dare you."

Tyler stopped and yelled, "What kind of kinky ass shit are you subjecting Teddy to that she can't come see her bestie?"

Lex skated toward Tyler who smiled momentarily before he saw the expression on his face. He started skating backwards and put his hands up. Lex shook his head, "Run."

 Everyone else on the ice stopped and watched Lex chase Tyler around the ice. Tyler shrieked when Lex caught up to him and put him in a headlock. Lex hissed, "I have reached my limit of all the chirping about my relationship I am going to take. Shut up." He released the headlock and shoved Tyler. 

Lex stormed off the ice and into the locker room. He stripped off his gear and brooded. Tyler's words echoed in his head, "What kind of kinky ass shit…." Lex felt the anger rise up into his chest. His sex life with Teddy had been discussed a little too freely by others, beginning back to when they were still "friends with the bestest of benefits". He was sick and tired of it. Then the thought hit him. “Kinky ass shit?- Did Teddy say something to Tyler about their new kinky play? That’s the only explanation he thought to himself. 

Teddy and Lex’s apartment- Katy Trail- Dallas-that afternoon

Teddy unpacked her last box containing clothing for shopping hauls that she still needed to film. She organized the clothes by brands with a note on top of each pile with the date they needed to be completed. She jumped when the front door opened and Lex screamed, “Theodora Bliss, get your ass in here.”

Lex had spent the last twenty minutes replaying Tyler’s words in his mind and coming to the only logical excuse he could muster. Teddy had been discussing their sex life with Tyler. His body seethed with anger and long unspoken resentment. 

She walked out into the living room. She was sure that she had heard Lex incorrectly. “What? Why are you yelling?” she said as she walked toward him. 

“You told him? You told him about it?” he screamed. 

“Told who about what? Quit yelling at me.” she asked. She studied Lex’s face and his body language. He was mad. He was madder than she had ever seen him. Then she remembered their fight on their first Thanksgiving. She thought he had been mad then, but it paled in comparison to this.

“You know what you said to him. I can’t fucking believe that you told him. It was private and you fucking told him,” he ranted as he paced. 

“Quit yelling at me and talk to me” she demanded. 

He paced the living room like a caged tiger and screamed. “I'm so tired of this shit, Teddy. I am so tired of our fucking private business being the subject of discussion with everyone.”

Teddy stood straight up and looked at him. “Don’t scream at me, Lex. Don’t scream at me.”

“I will scream if I damn well feel like it,” he continued to rant.

“No, you will not,” she walked to him, “You can either quit screaming at me and talk to me like an adult or get the fuck out until you can get your anger under control. I don't know what you THINK I did but I will not let you come into OUR home and speak to me like this. You decide."

Lex stared at her. She was struggling to retain her composure. He saw the fear in her eyes and the tension in her body. She was terrified. She was terrified of HIM, yet she remained calm. Her ultimatum rang in his ears. “Quit screaming and talk or get out,” were her words. He nodded his head, turned and walked out. He ignored neighbors who greeted him with generic greetings as he made his way downstairs. Once outside, he inhaled deeply and let the fresh air begin to clear his head. He stomped and sulked on the sidewalk. The rage inside of him began to dissipate. He felt his pulse return to normal and his breath slowed. 

He looked up and saw her observing from their balcony. Her face bore a calm and serene expression, but he knew otherwise. He knew that he had blown it and scared her. “Shit,” he thought to himself, “What have you done?” He spent a few minutes more calming down before he headed back into the apartment lobby. She sat on the couch when he opened the door. She looked at him before looking down at the floor. He quietly went to the couch and sat next to her. “I think I can talk now.” He began to say, "did you tell Seggy about Kitty Kat and Tiger?"

Teddy turned to him, shocked and cried,  "Noooooo! Never."

Lex asked,  "Are you sure? Not an offhand comment? No joke about being tied up or spanked?"

Teddy replied,  "No, never. Lex, that's our private business. No one else needs to know and I wouldn't tell anyone. Well, except that time with Barbara (the therapist) when she asked you for an update in our therapy session." She looked into his eyes and put her hand against his cheek. He pressed his cheek against her hand. Teddy asked, "Why did you think I did?" 

Lex explained what happened at practice. Teddy said "Tyler was joking. I would bet a million dollars. Lex, I know how nervous you were to tell me about your fantasies. I would never betray your trust."

Lex sighed,  "I am sorry that I jumped to conclusions. I should have known better."

Teddy tried to think of a reason that he would make the jump so quickly. She offered, "I think that there is a part of you that feels shame about it and that's why you went there so quickly. Do you still feel ashamed about it? Do we need to discuss it?"

Lex sat back against the back of the couch. He looked up at the ceiling and said,  "Maybe I do. I don't know. I didn’t think I did, but obviously something triggered me. Here I was thinking we had nothing to discuss on Tuesday, but obviously we do." 

Teddy laughed, “Your therapy jinxed us. Whenever you think that there is nothing to discuss, life throws you a curveball.” Lex frowned a bit. She grabbed his hands, “We can talk about it with Barbara Tuesday. It will be good."

Lex pushed Teddy’s hair out of her eyes and smiled, "Hey, I am proud of you, Bliss" 

Teddy laughed nervously, "Why are you proud of me?'”

Lex replied,  "You stood your ground and didn't let me treat you badly. You shut that shit down hard"

“I did, didn’t I? Go me,” she smiled, “I am proud of myself too.”

Lex got serious again, "I am sorry I yelled at you and assumed the worst. You were right. That’s not okay. It’s not okay at all." 

"Don't yell at me anymore," Teddy warned, “Don’t do it again.”

“I won’t. I promise,” He said before he kissed her gently. 

Teddy smiled, “Did you really put him in a headlock?”

“Yes, I did,” he kissed her again, “Are you mad?”

“He started it,” she wrapped her hand around the back of his neck and pulled him on top of her, “I told him that I was busy and he decided to stir the pot. He can now suffer the consequences.”

“What consequences?” he smiled as he adjusted his body so that he was at eye level with her.”

“I finished unpacking. Instead of going to hang out with him, I am going to spend the rest of the day in bed with you,” she teased as she spread her legs to accommodate his body. 

“Is that so?” Lex murmured as he kissed her neck, “Seggy’s mistake is my gain?”

“Well, you do also owe me hot make-up sex after that outburst. It’s only fair,” she said as she pulled the bottom of his shirt up his back. 

“That is true,” he grinned as he pulled the shirt over his head, "Although I don't think I will be able to hold out until we get to the bed before I need to be inside of you." Their hands scrambled to unbutton and push down pants and panties as their mouths took turns devouring the other. His fingers reached down to ensure her readiness for him.

"Lex….." she moaned into his ear, "I want you. I want you now." His hips lifted as she adjusted and guided him into her. He steadied himself by putting his hand on the arm of the couch. He fucked her with long, slow strokes. He savored the way that she opened up to him. She arched her back to get an angle just so. He pushed up her shirt, pulled out breasts and started kissing. His hand slid down and made contact with her clit. “Fuck…..” she moaned softly, “just like that.” 

The couch limited the space and he whispered, “Flip over.” He lifted his body and she slid off the couch so that she was on her knees. “Even better,” he smiled as he positioned himself between legs and began thrusting again. The new position allowed him better access and his hand returned. Teddy began to moan softly at first. He leaned over and whispered in her ear, “I know that you can be louder than that, Bliss. You can be fucking louder than that.” She moaned louder. “Louder,” he commanded, “Scream for me.” 

She turned to look at him, “You like it when I scream, eh?” Teddy leaned back and pulled his mouth to her. Despite the awkward angle, she kissed him before she bent down again. She began screaming a chorus of “Yes…. fuck me Lex…fuck me hard.” His groan as she screamed added to her pleasure and pushed her over the edge into her climax. He continued to thrust until followed her over the edge. They collapsed, momentarily exhausted, and sat on the floor. Their backs rested against the couch. 

Teddy looked at him and grinned. “What?” he asked as she stripped her shirt and bra off completely. Now nude, she moved to straddle his thighs and he grabbed her ass to push her forward. “Theodora Bliss, I see that smile,” he said lazily, “What’s going on in that brain?”

“I was dying to tell you to spank me, but I am not in control of that type of stuff,” she answered in a playful tone. She felt his cock twitch beneath her. His eyes searched her face before he kissed her with passion. "I mean you've already been accused of using kinky sex to keep me away from Tyler. You might as well do it. What did he say? Something about being tied up?" She leaned forward and teased in his ear.

"And maybe or maybe not spank Kitty Kat," he teased.

"If that is what Tiger likes," she rocked her hips against.

"Oh, Tiger likes," he smiled, "but you are going to have to give me a minute."

"Yes, Sir," she purred into his ear.

He growled, wrapped his arm around her waist and stood up. She instinctively wrapped her legs around him. "Now, Sir?" She questioned.

"Now and all night" he said as he threw her over his shoulder and slapped her ass.

Baxter House - Highland Park- The next day

Elizabeth Baxter walked briskly through her house and backyard with her party planner. She spoke in a firm voice as the planner took furious at the details that did not meet Elizabeth's exacting standards. Robert, who was accustomed to Elizabeth's "pre-party focus" , watched from the kitchen window. Guests would arrive within the hour and the planner had two pages of changes that needed to be executed.

"Daddio," Teddy called as she and Lex walked into the kitchen. Robert turned and scooped his baby girl into a tight hug. She giggled as he spun her around and around. "Daddio, you'll make me sick," she said in mock protest.

"It's what you get when you leave home for almost two months," Robert teased, "I have half a mind to give Jamie a stern talking to when I see him. What kind of man takes a girl away from family for months at a time." Lex cleared his throat. Robert smiled, "Jamie, I didn't realize that you were standing RIGHT THERE.". Both Teddy and Lex rolled their eyes.

"Where's Momma?" Teddy asked.

"Just finishing her final walk through with the planner," Robert warned her.

"Oh my," Teddy looked out the window at the planner who was nodding furiously, "what's the over/under on how many pages of notes she has? It has to be at least three, right?" Lex looked on in slight confusion. "Love, if you thought Thanksgiving was a big deal, that was small potatoes compared to this."

With that, Elizabeth walked in and sighed dramatically and walked to Robert. He wrapped his arms around her and whispered in her ear. He rocked her back and forth for a few moments before she nodded her head. She turned around and flashed a smile at her beloved daughter. Teddy wrapped her mother in a hug. "Everything looks amazing. Thank you for planning it for us," she praised her mother.

Elizabeth blushed slightly, "I know, I know- it's over the top. I am just happy to have my baby girl home safe and sound." 

“Momma, I was only in Toronto for two months,” Teddy replied.

“Teddy, I have never gone that long without seeing you,” Elizabeth teared up, “You’ll understand one day.” Lex stood to the side and watched them. Suddenly, Elizabeth exclaimed, “Jamie, I am happy to have you back as well. That was rude of me to exclude you.”

“I didn’t feel excluded, Liz. It makes sense that you missed Teddy,” he smiled, “I get that way when I go on a long road trip. I can’t imagine two months. I would go into withdrawals.”

“What kind of withdrawals? Like a drug addict?” Teddy poked his ribs. 

“Yes, I would be sweating and have the shakes,” he joked as he wrapped his arms around and squeezed her tight. “They would find me wandering the streets calling your name- Bliss….. Bliss….Bliss.” Teddy erupted in a fit of giggles. “I would hallucinate the sound of your laughter. I tell you, Bliss, I would be in deep trouble.” Elizabeth made her getaway as the two got wrapped into their little bubble. 

Pretty soon, the guests began arriving including one very eager Tyler. He took great pains to avoid being seen by Lex, unsure if whatever had set him off the day before was still having an affect on him. As Teddy stood and chatted with Katie and Benn on the patio, she felt her phone vibrate. She looked down to find a text from Tyler. 

A hand reached out from the gazebo and pulled her in with force. Teddy’s arms start flailing in an attempt at self-defense. Her blows landed around Tyler’s chest and face. “Ow, ow, ow,” Tyler squealed, “Stop hitting me. What is it about the two of you and physical violence?

"You scared the shit of me, Tyler," she yelled.

"Now you know how I felt yesterday when Big Rig was chasing around the ice," he protested. Teddy folded her arms and walked over to the swing. She sat down and stared at the ground. "Hey Teds," he sat down next to her, "He was really mad,eh?" She looked up but didn't talk to him. "Shit, I was just joking," he turned to face her.

"I know that you were joking," she said, yet still refused to look at him. "What I don't understand is why you don't know how that isn't acceptable," she states coldly. "You want to joke with me about that shit, I can take it as well as I can dish it," she sighed, "He can't and he shouldn't have to take it." Tyler looked down and then back up to find Teddy staring at him. "It's gone on long enough. Seriously, it has been almost two years of chirping," she chided him.

"Okay, okay…." He pleaded, "Why is he so sensitive about it? I don't get it."

"I am not just some girl he is fucking. He loves me and I love him" she began..

Tyler interjected, "I know that, Teddy. I know that."

"Then why do you want to take something that is so physically and emotionally intimate and make it a joke?" she asked, "After everything that you know we've been through together, why can't you understand that he is protective of me and protective of our relationship." 

Tyler listened to the pain in her voice. "I'm sorry Teds. I'm really sorry."

"I know you are" she nudged, "He is allowed to have a sensitive spot and react to you accusing him of tying me up and doing kinky ass shit."

"So are you officially denying that any kinky ass shit is going on?" he laughed.

Teddy got up to leave the gazebo before she turned around, "I am officially telling you that is none of your damn business and if you say anything else to Lex, a head lock will look like a walk in the park. Now quit being a chicken shit and apologize to him then enjoy the party. Momma got your stuffed mushrooms and Beef Wellingtons. If you are really nice she may let you have mini crėme brûlées too." 

She walked away and saw Lex watching her from the patio. He smiled as she approached him. "Hey Bliss, good chat with Seggy?" he asked. She walked straight up to him and pulled his shirt to get him to bend down. When his head ducked low enough, she kissed him as he wrapped his arm around her back and lifted her up. Lex hummed softly as she kissed him in an almost leisurely manner. "How long do we have to stay tonight?" he teased.

"We're shutting it down, Lex. I am planning on taking advantage of the multiple bars. I also plan on shaking my ass on the dance floor and fully expect you to be out there too," she joked. Teddy felt his muscles tense beneath her and looked over her shoulder. She glanced back and saw Tyler approach them. Lex set her down. "I am going to check in with Momma and let you two chat." Tyler shot her a look that implored her to stay but she shook her head no.

Lex looked at Teddy as she walked away, then turned his attention to Tyler. "So," Tyler started, "I need to apologize for the chirps yesterday. I meant them as jokes but that doesn't really excuse it." 

"It's possible that I overreacted," Lex relaxed his muscles.

"No, you really didn't," Tyler countered, "It was really disrespectful to your relationship. She isn't just some girl that you are hooking up with. You love her more than I can understand and want to protect her. I can understand wanting to keep that part of your life private and sacred. It won't happen again and I'll shut it down if I hear it."

"Thanks, I appreciate it," Lex spoke softly, "I also appreciate your friendship with Bliss. You are good for each other. I think that is another thing that bothered me. The implication that I control her in any way or would try to keep you two apart."

"You think I'm good for her?" He grinned, "You like me, Rig. You really like me."

"Don't push it," Lex warned, "and shut up about me not liking you. We've been friends too long for that bullshit."

Teddy made the rounds of the party. Her cheeks ached from smiling and looked for a quiet spot to decompress. She made a beeline to the back stairs. She found her mother sitting on the third bottom stair with her head resting in her hands. "Mamacita," she asked quietly, "What's the matter? Is there something wrong?" 

Elizabeth shook her head, wiped her tears quickly and looked up with a smile. "Teddy Bear, of course not," she lied. Teddy raised an eyebrow. "Can you go find your father?" she asked. 

Teddy pointed to the space next to her mother on the stairs. Elizabeth scooted over and Teddy sat down. "I would prefer if you would talk to me instead of keeping me in the dark," she said softly. 

Elizabeth grimaced, "Teddy Bear, it's your party. You should have fun." 

Teddy turned to her mother and pushed her hair back behind her ear, "I plan on it, but I won't have any fun if I know you are upset. Please talk to me." Elizabeth hesitated. "I am not a fragile flower that you have to protect anymore, Momma. I am stronger than you know."

"I know how strong you are, Bear. You are so much stronger than me," Elizabeth whispered. Her eyes filled with tears. "The way that you came back to life after what you endured. You clawed your way back to happiness," she turned to face her daughter, "I could never do that."

"Bullshit" Teddy replied without thought, "I remember what you went through when Frankie died. It was a terrible time for you. You could barely get out of bed." Teddy took her mother's hand in hers and squeezed it, "I didn't do it alone. You helped me, Daddio helped, Lex and Tyler helped me too. You should let people help you too."

"Oh Daddio helps me, too" her mother interjected, "Like Jamie helps you." 

"Like Lex helps me?", Teddy thought to herself. Then it dawned on her how Lex was adept at knowing when she was getting into her head. He knew how to talk her off the ledge that her anxiety took her to. She looked at Elizabeth and paused. Then spoke quietly, "How do you need help? Like me?" Elizabeth didn't respond immediately. "Momma, are you saying that you have anxiety too?" Teddy tried to ask with no emotion. "Do you have the thoughts too? Do you have the never ending thoughts? The ones that tell you that you are not good enough and predict the worst case scenarios?" she questioned.

Elizabeth's tears began to fall and she whispered, "Yes. Daddio tries to help me, but it doesn't always help. Sometimes the thoughts are so loud I can barely think." 

Teddy wiped her mother's tears, "and the voices are loud right now? What are they saying?"

"Right now, I just feel sad. I feel so sad and I don't know why," Elizabeth cried, "I should be happy. You are finally back. I can breathe again." Teddy tilted her head. "Two months, Teddy," her mother explained, "For two months you were in another country where anything could happen."

"What did you think could happen?" Teddy asked.

"This time- What if you got sick? What if you got in a fight with Jamie? What if you got in a car accident? You could be injured, paralyzed or worse," she rambled. Elizabeth trembled, "What if a drunk driver hit you too? What would I do? What would I do if something happened to you? What would I do if you died and left me forever?" Her voice broke and she began to sob. 

Teddy pulled her mother into her arms. "Momma, I am here. I am safe and sound. Nothing happened to me," she soothed, "I am here. Look at me. I am here."

"She isn't though," Elizabeth cried. "She's gone. She's gone and I miss her so much." Images of her sister, Frankie, flooded Teddy's mind. She felt a lump form in her throat and she swallowed hard. 

"Are those the thoughts? You are afraid that I am going to die like Frankie?", she asked. Her mother nodded, "Breathe, Momma, breathe." Robert came in from the patio. It had been ten minutes since Elizabeth walked into the house. He stopped when he saw them sitting on the stairs. Teddy consoled her mother and modeled breathing.

Elizabeth started to follow Teddy's breath pattern. Slowly she calmed down. Teddy said quietly, "You know what helps me the most, Momma? It's the medicine. It's medicine and therapy. That's what helps with the thoughts the most." 

"Daddio has been trying to get me to try them. I don't know. I should be able to do it on my own without medicine. I should be stronger," she confessed.

"Do you think I should be able to do it on my own?" Teddy looked her mother in the eye. Elizabeth paused. "I didn't think so. If I can get help, so can you," Teddy encouraged. "You can try it and if you don't like it, you can stop," she smiled, "I can ask Jen for a referral for you."

"No promises,Bear," Elizabeth said at last, "No promises, but I will promise to think about it." 

Robert spoke up, "That's more than I ever got out of her." Teddy and Elizabeth turned to him. "You should listen to Teddy. She understands it more than I can." Lex walked in from the patio for the same reason as Robert, except to find Teddy. He walked up as Robert spoke. 

"What does Teddy understand?" he asked. Teddy looked at Elizabeth for permission to tell him. 

Elizabeth spoke, "She understands my mind and how it lies to me." Lex's eyes widened and he looked from mother to daughter and back again. "Aren't we a pathetic pair?" she laughed bitterly. Teddy blinked slowly and chose to ignore the comment.

Lex smiled, "Like two peas in a pod- two beautiful peas." Teddy smiled up at her love and shot him a look of desperation. "Hey, do you mind if I steal Bliss for a minute?", he asked sweetly. Robert and Elizabeth shared a look and left. Lex sat down on the stair below Teddy and smiled at her. "It was the pair comment, right?" he asked.  She nodded and threw herself into his arms. "You know that it wasn't about you, Bliss," he offered, "This is the first time that she's talked to you about it, right? Think about the first time you told me about your anxiety." Teddy sat back and listened to him. "Remember how hard you were on yourself? That's how she feels now. Give her some time."

Teddy scooted closer to Lex, "Remember what happened after that?" He leaned forward and nodded yes. She whispered, "Lex, I want to kiss you now. Is that okay?" 

He licked his lips and whispered back, "yeah".

She drew him toward her with her eyes, he inclined his face toward hers and laid his mouth on her mouth. The overwhelming desire raced through Teddy’s body as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Drawing him closer to her body as her tongue traced along his lips before slipping into his mouth. For a moment they were back in that crowded theater, experiencing that life changing kiss when they casually crossed line from friends to something that neither could have anticipated. Neither one stopped to think about anything but the love that began with that kiss, and also focused on the intense pleasure of each other’s nearness. Finally the spell was broken when Lex heard Teddy’s father clear his throat. Breaking the kiss, they looked up at him- as breathless and slightly disoriented as their first kiss.

"Teddy Bear, I don't mean to interrupt your moment," her father held out his hand, "Would you give me the pleasure of a dance before the DJ cranks it up?" Teddy looked at Lex who shrugged his shoulders but kissed her cheek. He whispered in her ear, "Dance with your dad." 

Teddy took her father's hand and followed him to the dance floor. Robert signaled the DJ and pulled Teddy into the perfect Viennese waltz frame. She smiled as she remembered the dance lessons that her mother had forced Teddy and Robert to take in preparation of her debutante ball. Despite both of their very vocal protests, they both treasured that time that cemented their bond.

The song began and it drew the attention of the party. Lex approached Elizabeth on the edge of the dance floor. She turned and gave him a soft smile. Robert's left hand held Teddy's hand as his right hand wrapped around her waist. Her left shoulder was delicately placed on his right shoulder. Robert looked down into his baby girl's eyes and sang the words softly.

A smile spread across Lex's face as he watched the normally tough and stoic facade melt away. In its place, the love between the two of them made him glow.

Look at the two of you dancin' that way.

Lost in the moment and each other's face

So much in love, you're alone in this place

Like there's nobody else in the world

I was enough for her not long ago

I was her number one, she told me so

And she still means the world to me, just so you know

So be careful when you hold my girl

Teddy listened to her father's voice as he sang to her. "Daddio," she questioned as he twirled her into a spin before they connected their frame again, "You are going to make me cry with this mushy song."

Time changes everything, life must go on

And I'm not gonna stand in your way

But I loved her first, I held her first

And a place in my heart will always be hers

From the first breath she breathed

When she first smiled at me

I knew the love of a father runs deep

And I prayed that she'd find you someday

But it's still hard to give her away

I loved her first

Robert responded, "Teddy Bear, then it's a good thing that we are practicing tonight."

How could that beautiful woman with you

Be the same freckle face kid that I knew

The one that I read all those fairytales to

And tucked into bed all those nights

And I knew the first time I saw you with her

It was only a matter of time

Teddy asked, "Practice for what Daddio?" He teared up and answered, "For your wedding, Teddy Bear. We have to be able to get through the dance with no tears at your wedding to Lex." Teddy looked over her shoulder at Lex and her who watched the dance intently. The tender moment etched its way into their memories. Off to the side, Tyler stood with his phone out. He filmed the dance. His phone thankfully concealed his eyes who, like almost everyone else who watched and also had a heart, were wet with unshed tears.

Teddy squealed with delight as Robert tightened his grip around her waist and lifted into the air so that she was eye level with him. He then began to twirl and spin her around as the song continued. Teddy giggled, "Daddio, you are going to make me dizzy." 

I loved her first, I held her first

And a place in my heart will always be hers

From the first breath she breathed

When she first smiled at me

I knew the love of a father runs deep

And I prayed that she'd find you someday

But it's still hard to give her away

I loved her first

When the song ended, Teddy wrapped her arms around her father's neck and squeezed tight. "Thank you, Teddy Bear. You are the best surprise gift I received," his voice was soft and tender as he repeated the phrase that he told her every night when he tucked her into bed. He said, " I'll love you forever. I'll like you for always. As long as I am living, my baby you'll be." With that, he kissed her cheeks and set her down gently. Collectively the guests erupted in spontaneous applause. Teddy blushed and slid down into the dramatic curtsy she performed at her debutante ball. 

Lex rushed over to her and offered her his hand as she arose from her dip. He dramatically kissed her hand as slow and romantic song began. They came together and danced. Lex joked, "So I think we're going to need lessons if I want to compete with that dance." 

Robert went and stood behind Elizabeth. His arms snaked around her waist and he bent down to place his chin on her shoulder. Tyler snapped a picture as Robert whispered into her ear. "Lizzie Bee, can we freeze this moment forever?" he asked, "I can't imagine a better day." She smiled and leaned back into his chest. 

After their slow dance, the DJ transitioned to faster paced music. The dance floor became crowded as the alcohol flowed. By the end of the night, Teddy, Lex and the rest of the guests were drenched in sweat. True to her word, Teddy had taken full advantage of the fully stocked bar. She sent Katie and Benn off in their Uber with big hugs and sloppy kisses on their cheeks. Tyler and Teddy made drunken plans to hang out the next evening at his house before he stumbled into his Uber alone. 

Then she turned to Lex with a lopsided grin. "Are you sober?" she asked, "I will get an Uber just in case." She pulled her phone out of her pocket and stared at the screen. "Hey," she giggled, "Maybe you should get the Uber." He took the phone and placed it in his pocket. He then bent down, placed his shoulder against her abdomen and lifted her over his shoulder. "Lex," she screamed as he carried her up the driveway then up the stairs to the garage apartment. At the top, he opened the door, closed it with his foot and headed into the bedroom. He dropped her down into the bed and she bounced up and down.

They exchanged a look and Lex whispered, “Yes?" She sat up and reached for the button on his pants. He placed his hands on top of hers to stop their movement. Her eyes went to his and he asked again, "Yes?" 

It dawned on her that he needed verbal confirmation of her consent, especially since she had been drinking. "Yes, the answer is yes. I want this. I want you now and forever," she said confidently. He nodded in acknowledgment before they began a feverish race to strip. Once naked, they scurried up the bed to make love. It was rushed and frantic yet the tenderness of their love was not lost in the moment. Lex whispered words of adoration in her ear as they raced towards their climax. 

Afterwards, he held her as they talked about the party before they could no longer hold their eyes open. "Good night my Bliss," he whispered as she drifted off to dream, "I love you more than you'll ever know."

TEDDY AND LEX’S APARTMENT-UPTOWN-THE NEXT NIGHT

Lex sat on the couch and checked his phone. "Bliss," he called, "We need to leave if I am going to be on time." She walked out carrying her tote bag while she finished putting her hair up into a messy bun. "Are those my sweats?" he asked, "Aren't you going to be hot in them?"

Teddy smiled, "I need them because Tyler keeps his house frigid. If I get hot, I have a shirt underneath."

Lex squinted his eyes, "What's that on your face, Bliss? 

She reached to her face and then remembered, "Oh yeah, I have a pimple so I put a pimple patch on it."

 Lex smirked, "Clearly, you are dressing to impress tonight." 

“Ummm, it’s Tyler. He has seen me much worse, trust me,” She laughed. 

“Oh? When?” Lex challenged. 

“First of all Buddy, you are implying that I look bad now which kind of hurts my feelings,” she started. Lex went to object and she cut him off. “Second of all, there was about two weeks after you went to Pittsburgh that I basically looked like a troll most of the time. Katie was *this* close to staging an intervention.” 

“You know that I think you are the most beautiful woman on the planet, even with a pimple patch on your forehead,” Lex backpedaled. Teddy rolled her eyes and looked at Lex dressed in shorts and polo shirt. He had yet to get his haircut and/or shave for the start of training camp. His hair curled in small ringlets and his beard was the perfect length. "Where are you going tonight?" she asked. 

"Probably dinner and then Inwood Tavern," he looked down with a smile.

She looked up in shock,"You're going to the tavern without me? I am not even sure that Tess will serve you if I am not there to vouch for you."

"You are thinking of Seggy, Bliss. That's who she can't stand, but she likes me. The riff-raff stay under control when I am around," he gloated. "Come on, babe- we need to leave or I'll be late." She bit her lip and walked up to him. She lifted his shirt and ran her finger around his waistband. He made no effort to move though.

Her hand ran up and down his abdomen and she felt his muscles contract beneath her touch. "Will you be upset if you are late?" she drawled. 

"Upset is a strong word. I would say mildly annoyed at most," he placed his hands over hers. "What are you trying to do, Bliss?"

"I want to give you something to look forward to when you come home," she leaned forward and kissed his chest. 

"I alway look forward to coming home to you," he wrapped his arms around her body and pulled her to him, "The sooner we leave, the sooner I can come home." He kissed the top of her head. 

"Let's go Lex," she kissed his chest again. He took the bag from her, then grabbed her hand. They walked together to his truck. They were a dichotomy with him in his shorts and polo and her in a sweatshirt and yoga pants.

In the car, she twisted her body to look at him. His shorts grazed his thighs. His skin was sun-kissed from their summer in Toronto. His tan made his blue eyes pop even more than normal. His hair was a mess of blonde curls. He vaguely resembled a statue of Adonis. He felt her stare and smiled. Her blatant looks of desire stroked his ego. 

At Seguin’s house, he insisted on walking her to the front door. As she turned the door handle to open the door without knocking, Lex grabbed her hand and pulled her back into his body. He kissed her firmly. She dropped her bag and he lifted her into his arms. She wrapped her legs around his waist as he grabbed her ass. "I thought you were worried about being late to dinner," she smiled.

"I have priorities, babe," he grinned, "Have a good night. Try not to bust Seggy's balls too much. He'll be pissy tomorrow if you do."

"Don't take my fun away, Love," she replied, "Besides if he is pissy, just put him in a headlock again." She pushed against his chest and jumped down. She walked backwards towards the door. "Don't be too late, Lex. I meant what I said earlier," she teased. She went to lean against the door to watch him leave. Lex walked to his truck and waved.

She blew him a kiss as the door swung open. Teddy lost her balance and fell backwards. Tyler lunged to catch her in his arms. “Teddy,” he screamed as he caught her. She popped up. Lex was almost out of the truck when she waved him off. 

“I’m fine, Lex, I’m fine,” she called out, “Go have fun. See you later!” 

Lex waited until she turned around and started swatting Tyler on the arms and chest. “What the hell was that?” she argued. 

Tyler protested, “I heard a noise so I came to investigate. By the way, didn’t your mother teach you to knock before you go into someone’s home? Seriously what the fuck Teddy.”

“Didn’t your parents teach you to lock the damn door Tyler? Why would I knock anyways?” she argued back. Then the thought hit her. “Unless you have a naked girl in here. Do you have any naked girls in here? Were you getting a little something something before I came over?”

“Oh my god, Teddy! How desperate do you think I am? You think that I knew that you were coming over and still planned a booty call?” he sighed dramatically.

“It wouldn’t be the first time,” she laughed as she remembered when she interrupted Tyler and Bree that one time. 

Tyler immediately picked up on her reference, “She just dropped by. What was I supposed to do?”

“Yes, you were forced to fuck her. She came over and demanded dick. You had no choice,” Teddy laughed.

“Oh shut up! The pizza is getting cold,” he scoffed. 

Lex looked at the two of them standing in the doorway bickering, shook his head and drove off. Neither one of them noticed as they turned to walk into the house. 

He was about ten minutes late to dinner. The group of guys, including his former roommate.Stephen Johns, sat around the table talking about their off season adventures. "Big Rig," they called out as he entered the brightly colored dining room. "Where in hell have you been?" someone asked.

Lex took his seat at the end of the table and picked up the menu. He wasn't sure why. Teddy and he either ate there or ordered in at least once a week when they were in town. "Oh no, don't tell me," Johnsy joked, "You're late because of Teddy. I swear to God, Big Rig." Lex gave him a look that made Johnsy shut his mouth.

"Can you blame him?" John Klingberg joked, "I would be late all the time too if I had her at home." The remark was met with general agreement around the table. 

Lex inhaled deeply. "Get your minds out of the gutter, especially you Klinger. I am late because I had to drop off Teddy at Seggy's house. That's it- end of story." The tone in his voice made it evident that he was uninterested in further speculation about his tardiness.

"Seggy's house? As in Seguin's house?" Corey Perry asked in surprise. Tyler and Corey had played together on Team Canada. He was very aware of Tyler's reputation with the ladies. He stared at Lex, "Teddy's your girlfriend, I assume?" Lex shook his head yes in affirmation. Perry's eyebrows raised even higher. "You took your girlfriend to hang out at Seggy's house? Are they alone?" he asked incredulously.

"He is her best friend," Lex replied, "They were friends before we got together and still are. It's all good." 

"No, seriously- you let your woman hang out with that manwhore?" Perry laughed, "You are a better man than me."

Lex felt his blood pressure starting to rise. He rubbed his hands on his thighs. He was thankful when Matteo came over to check on the table. Matteo trusted Isabella to take care of the table's needs, but wanted to give special attention to one of his regulars. "Jamie," he said with a smile, "Can I get you a drink? Your usual beer?" Lex held up one finger to indicate that he wanted a beer. He then turned his attention back to Perry. He studied his face before he spoke.

"Your first mistake is assuming that I can either let or not let Teddy do anything in this life. She is far too stubborn to put up with that shit," he began. "Second, if I had a camera set up in his house, I would see the following things- Teddy playing with the dogs while they argue about who the dogs love the most, the two of them eating either pizza and/or ice cream, and the twenty minute discussion about what they are going to watch. Given that the season hasn’t started, my money would be on Teddy forcing him to watch some sort of rom-com while he whines until it starts.  Third, have you seen me? Do you think that he is going to take a shot at my girlfriend?” 

“You seem very confident is all I am saying,” Perry quipped, "Not sure why she would settle for a grinder like you when she can have that big Seguin money." Lex stared at Perry in disbelief.

The usually very quiet Miro spoke up, “Teddy only has eyes for Big Rig and he only has eyes for her. She does not need money from Seggy or Big Rig. You insult Teddy and Tyler. They are friends and nothing more.” The statement was made with such confidence that Perry dropped the matter entirely. 

After dinner, the group headed over to the Inwood Tavern. They headed past the bar to the back room to commandeer the comfy sofas with the best view of the TV showing the Sunday night football game. Being the newest members of the team, Joe Pavelski and Corey Perry were sent to the bar to procure a round of beers for the group. Within minutes, they returned shaking their heads. Perry declared, "We need to go somewhere else. That crazy bartender won't serve us." 

Lex smiled, "Let me guess. She took one look at your watch and credit card then sent you scurrying with your tails tucked between your legs. Is that about right?"

"Yeah, she is insane," Pavs insisted.

"That's Tess. She isn't crazy. She just doesn't tolerate cocky ass people well," Lex explained, "Stay here. Maybe I can sweet talk her." Lex left the group and headed to the bar in the front room. Tess looked and smiled. She looked around, saw no Teddy and folded her arms. Lex put on his best smile and leaned on the counter, "Hey Tess- long time, no see. Do you think I can get two pitchers of beer?"

"Two pitchers of beer?" Tess asked suspiciously, "All for you? Where is Teddy by the way?"

"Not all for me," Lex explained, "I have friends in the back." 

Tess looked toward the back room and saw Perry and Pavs spying on the conversation. "Are you with those assholes? Why?" Tess said with an edge to her voice, "You didn't answer my question by the way."

Lex struggled to remember the question then said, "Teddy is hanging out with Seggy tonight. I am out with guys from the team." He nodded toward Pavs and Perry, "those are the new guys. They are actually pretty cool. I can vouch for them."

"And who is going to vouch for you, huh?" she said defiantly as she leaned on the bar. At the end of the bar, two blonde sorority girls from SMU desperately tried to get Tess' attention. She paid them no mind and focused on Lex. 

"Come on Tess- you know me. Didn't I help with that group of frat boys fighting last time?" he said. Tess made no movement. "What if I got Teddy to vouch for me?" he pleaded. She nodded her head and he reached for his phone. 

At the end of the bar, blonde number one said, "Come on Alexis. Why are we even here? It's disgusting." They had been standing at the bar, flashing Daddy's AMEX in the hopes of getting a drink. Blonde number two whined, "Give it another minute. He may show up. I just saw a group of Stars players head back. He may be joining them." Alexis, aka blonde number two, yelled at Tess, "excuse me, but can we get some fucking service around here?"

Teddy answered Lex's facetime call just as Lex and Tess turned at the sound of Alexis' rude demand. "Oh fuck," Lex said as he watched Tess race to the end of the bar. 

"What did you say to me, Missy?" Tess asked in disbelief. 

Lex watched and mentally tried to signal the blonde to keep her mouth shut. Instead she doubled down and said, "Do your job and get my friend and I a glass of wine. We've been standing here for ten minutes." 

Teddy screamed, "Lex! Lex- you called me. What's going on?"

Lex looked down at the phone and said, "Bliss, Tess is about to light up a couple of SMU blondes."

Teddy squealed, "Turn it so I can see. Let me see her kick ass!" Tyler heard the commotion and scrambled behind Teddy to watch. Lex switched the camera so Tess was in view. 

Tess looked Alexis up and down and shook her head. "First of all, I need to see some fucking ID before I even think about serving the two of you. Second, I don't take Daddy's credit cards so you'll need cash. If you can't do both, you need to take your blonde asses back to campus." 

Blonde number one stomped her foot and whined, "That's not fair. You can't do that." Meanwhile, Alexis stared at Tess, "Look, I am friends with some very powerful people. I can make your life hell if I want."

Tess was silent at first, then she grabbed a wine glass, smashed it on the edge of the bar and held the broken piece up, "Then get your powerful friends to serve you some basic white girl rosé. Get the fuck out."

Blonde Number One cried, "That's it, Alexis. I am calling Brady. You can stay and stalk Seguin on your own."

Alexis looked over to Lex and forced a single tear out. "Are you going to let her talk to me that way?"

Lex laughed, "I would leave if I were you. I would leave before she gets angry."

Tess threw the broken glass in the trash and swept the pieces on the floor. Alexiw stared in disbelief before she accepted defeat and walked out the door. 

On the phone, Teddy and Tyler stared in a mixture of awe and fear. Teddy screamed, "She was trying to stalk Tyler? Then Tess broke a wine glass? Are you kidding me? I miss all the fun." 

Tyler laughed, "Hey Lex, was stalker girl hot?"

"Ummm, I don't think she was hot, but you may," Lex shrugged his shoulders, "You are into that bland blonde look."

Tess listened momentarily before she barked, "Focus Oleksiak." 

Lex smiled and spoke to Teddy, "Tess needs to speak to you." 

He handed the phone to Teddy who smiled at Tess. "Tess, what's up?"

Tess smiled back at Teddy, "Oh you know, scaring the beejeezus out of sorority girls who try me. Did you know Big Rig is in here with a group of troublemakers and ne’er do wells?"

Teddy laughed,"Yes, I am aware. I'll vouch for him and the motley crew. I promise that they'll be on their best behavior. Be sure to give them the friend discount, okay?"

Tess smiled, "Just for you, Teddy Bear. Tell Seggy that he owes me one for driving the stalker girl out of here."

Tyler poked his head over Teddy's shoulder, "Thank you Tess. Does this mean that you like me now?"

"You're cute, but no," Tess laughed, "Teddy, I'll keep an eye out on your man for you." 

Teddy laughed, "Thanks. Try not to stab anybody on my behalf." Tess went off to get the pitchers of beer ready. 

Lex turned his attention back to Teddy. It was the first time he took a good look at her. "Ummm, Bliss, what's the purple stuff on your face." 

She patted her face, "Oh yeah, since Tyler made me watch this stupid football game, I made him do face masks with me. I am doing a platinum purple mask and he is doing the green tea pore cleansing mask."

Lex whispered, "Bliss, I will do anything you want if you get me a picture of that….anything"

Teddy whispered, "Already done but I will still take you up on your offer.”

Lex  smiled, "Hey, I should get back to the boys. I will see you later. Are you good?"

"I am good," she answered cheerfully, "Have fun with the boys. See you soon."

Three hours later, Lex pulled his truck into Seguin's driveway. He knocked softly without an answer. He opened the door and walked in. The house was dark with the exception of the kitchen pendant lights and the glow of the exceptionally large TV hung above the fireplace. He walked into the family room. Teddy and Tyler were asleep on opposite ends of the sectional with three dogs positioned between them. Sweet Home Alabama played on the television. 

Lex walked into the kitchen and snagged a slice of pizza from the pizza box. The island was littered with the remnants of their dinner and various cocktails. He picked up the shot glass and sniffed it. The distinct lime scent of a kamikaze shot hit his nose. He wondered how many they had taken. Whatever the number, it was enough to put them down hard.

 He grabbed a bottle of water and sat down at the kitchen counter. He replayed the events of the night and gave himself a mental high five for his accurate Teddy and Tyler predictions. Perry's words floated across his brain and he pressed his lips together. Lex was not one for insecurity about much in life. Sure, he had some doubts about his future with the Stars, but who could blame him after being traded twice in the span of thirteen months.

Despite those doubts, he felt good about his life. He had the dream job in the NHL. He had a loving and supportive family. He had a good set of friends. Most importantly, he had his Bliss. 

Now in Bliss, he had no doubts-at least until tonight. He was sure that he loved and adored her. He was certain that feeling was returned. He was sure that he would do anything to keep their relationship healthy and he was certain that she would do the same thing. It meant checking his ego at the door and doing the work that included hard conversations, compromises and unwavering support and loyalty.

"Why would she settle for a grinder like you when she can have that big Seguin money," - His mind mulled the words over. He didn't have an answer for the question. He sat and looked at Seguin's large and luxurious home. Then he thought of the apartment that he shared with Bliss. She would never complain, but she deserved a home like this. She deserved the world and he wondered if he could provide it for her. 

He glanced over at her on the couch. She slept with arms wrapped around a pillow. Her mouth was open slightly. There was a slight snore coming from the room and he wasn't sure if it came from him or her. He finished his pizza and cleaned his mess. He walked over and knelt beside the couch. He placed his hand on her cheek and she smiled in her sleep. "Bliss," he whispered, "Bliss- wake up. It's time to go home." She stirred slowly and stretched her arms over head. Her eyes opened slowly and she blinked as his face came into focus.

"Lex," she said sleepily, "What time is it?

"A little before midnight," he answered as he pushed her hair out of her face. "Let's go home," he suggested. 

She nodded and sat up. "Lex," she said as she yawned, "I am a little drunk."

"I figured. How many shots did you do?" He laughed softly. She held out five fingers, shook her head and then held up a second hand. "You are going to hate life in the morning." She made an exaggerated face. "It's okay. I will make coffee and breakfast." A smile spread across her face.  "Wake up Seggy and say goodbye. I'll get your things," he instructed.

She stood up, wobbled for a bit and walked over to Tyler. Teddy shook him until he moaned, "Mom….five more minutes." She continued shaking until one eye opened. "You are not my mom," he groaned.

"Get up and go to bed," she smiled.

 He smiled back, "You're my friend, Teddy. I love my friend, Teddy. She is the best."

Lex watched from the kitchen. Teddy bent down, "Tyler, you have to get up and go to bed now. Lex is here to take me home."

Tyler sat up, "Big Rig is here?" He turned and waved, "Hi Big Rig!” Tyler’s brain processed the rest of Teddy’s words. “Wait, you can’t go home. The movie isn’t finished.”

“Spoiler alert- She ends with Jake. They always end up with the hometown boy,” Teddy answered. “Now get up, walk me out like a gentleman and go to bed,” she instructed. Tyler stood up and did the same wobble that Teddy did. Together, Teddy and he walked to the front door where Lex met them. Tyler stared at Teddy with glassy eyes. She gave him a tight hug, “Tonight was fun, even if you did make me watch stupid football.”

Tyler rested his head on her shoulder and squeezed her even tighter. He whispered in her ear, “Thanks Teddy. I really needed some time with my bestie. I love you.” 

He let her go and she reached for Lex’s hand. Tyler watched them walk out to the truck. He laughed as Teddy tried unsuccessfully to get into the truck before Lex picked her up and put her inside the cab. After he buckled her in, she rolled down the window and leaned her head out. “Bye Tyler!” she yelled loudly. Lex rolled his eyes and reminded her that people were trying to sleep. “I need to say bye to my friend,” she insisted. “Hey Tyler!” she called and he smiled back at her, “I forgot to say that I love you too. Sorry that you missed out on Stalker Girl. Maybe she’ll come back.”

At their apartment, Lex guided Teddy by the hand through the secure lobby to the elevator. She was sobering up, but enjoyed the attention so she let him. Once they were inside, she made a beeline for the couch. Lex wrapped his arm around her waist and lifted/carried her away from the couch. “No couch, Bliss,” he said, “Straight to bed.” 

She nodded obediently when he set her done and entered the bedroom. Lex stood back and watched her comically remove her clothes. Shirts, shoes and underwear flew around the room. Once freed from her clothes, she crawled into bed. Lex followed suit and wrapped his body around hers. “Lex,” she said softly, “Do you get mad that I hang out with Tyler and get drunk? Cause then you have to take care of me.”

“I like taking care of you,” he answered, “No, I don’t get mad. Why would I get mad?”

“A lot of men would feel threatened,” she said as she yawned, “but you know the truth, right?”

“Tell me the truth,” he waited to hear her answer. 

“I love Tyler and I say that he is my best friend,” she stated before she paused, “but the truth is that you are my best friend. You are my best friend and such much more. You are everything to me and I love you. I wouldn’t change a single thing about you- nothing.” 

Lex squeezed her tight as the lump formed in his throat, “I wouldn't change a thing about you either. You are everything to me and I love you too.”

Tuesday- October 2nd- Dallas Stars Center- Frisco

Lex sat in his stall in the Stars locker room and stared at his phone. He willed his hands to move and dial the number, but he couldn’t work up the courage. He smiled when the text from Teddy came through. Actually the multiple texts from Teddy came through at once to his phone. 

Lex inhaled deeply and dialed the number. Mary, Robert Baxter’s assistant, answered the phone on the second ring. 

Mary: Baxter Enterprises- This is Mary. How can I assist you?

Lex: Uh, hi Mary. This is Jamie Oleksiak. I am Teddy’s boyfriend. 

Mary: Jamie, I know who you are. 

Lex: That’s right. I apologize. 

There was a solid fifteen seconds of silence

Mary: Jamie? Did you need something? Robert is in a meeting, but I could take a message or put you through to his voicemail. 

Lex: I was wondering….. How do I go about getting an appointment with Robert?

Mary: An appointment? Can you tell me more?

Lex: I have something important to discuss with him and I would rather do it without interruptions. That’s difficult to do at home.

Mary: Oh, I see. How long do you think that you will need?

Lex: Maybe half an hour? An hour at the most-What are my options? 

Mary: Let me see. He is completely booked today. Would afternoon work better for you? You have practice in the morning, correct?

Lex: Anything after eleven o’clock would be fine.

Mary: I will put you in tomorrow at eleven thirty. Do you have the address? 

Lex: I do. 

Mary: Great, I will see you tomorrow. 

Wednesday, October 2nd- Baxter Enterprises

Lex paced in the light and airy lobby inside the ninth floor office suite of Baxter Enterprises. He walked over to the floor to ceiling windows and looked out over the horizon. He smiled when he saw the American Airlines Center in the distance.

"Jamie," Mary called from the reception desk, "Come with me." He followed the well dressed woman through a maze of corridors to the double doors of Robert's private suite. They passed into the suite and went by Mary's desk where she served as Robert's gatekeeper. She guided him into Robert's large corner office that had a wall with floor to ceiling windows, large conference table, seating area and the massive desk. "Robert is in back to back meetings. His last meeting is running late.He will be in a few minutes. Please make yourself comfortable. Do you need coffee, water or soda?"

Lex nodded his head,"No, thank you." After Mary left, he walked over to the built-in credenza and studied the framed photos. He smiled at the childhood photos of Teddy and Frankie. He stopped when he came across one framed photo. It was an eight by ten picture taken in Pittsburgh after a Penguins game. He stood in the center sandwiched between his father and Robert. His mother and sister stood besides his father while Elizabeth stood to Robert's right. Teddy stood front and center with Lex's arms wrapped around her waist and his chin rested on her shoulder. While everyone else looked at the camera, Teddy's head was turned to his face with a smile. He gingerly picked up the photo and studied it. The picture had been taken a little under a year ago but it seemed like a lifetime.

Robert's voice broke his concentration, "It is the first photo of all of us together. We forgot to get a family photo that October," the older gentleman explained. Robert observed Lex's dress- pressed pants, starched starch and suit jacket. Other than game days and special occasions, Lex dressed casually in jeans or sweats. 

"Is that how you see me? As your family?" Lex asked nervously. 

Robert studied Lex's face carefully. He searched for a motive for his question but Lex's poker face revealed none. Robert walked over and took the frame from Lex's hands. He pointed to the conference table, seating area and desk in a silent question to Lex. He chose the conference table.

"I am not sure how to answer your question, Jamie," Robert said as he sat down and turned his body to face Lex. "I am a bit of a literalist so my immediate answer is no. I do not see you as family. However, in my heart, I know that the answer is yes. It may not be legally, but we are connected in all the ways that matter." They stared at each other for a moment before Robert asked, "Why did you ask?" 

Lex went to speak, "Well, I have a question and wanted to see how you see us before I ask." 

"Did you get the answer you wanted?" Robert quizzed.

Lex smiled, "I got the truth. I wouldn't expect any less from you.". Robert placed his hand over his heart and smiled. "Do you mind if I stand?" Lex said as he stood. He walked the length of the conference table and turned around. "I think I have been clear in my intentions with your daughter. I am in this for a lifetime. A lifetime that will include marriage and God willing, children," he spoke with determination. "However, I recently have had some doubts about my ability to financially provide the lifestyle that Teddy deserves. I need to know if you share that doubt. I need to know if you have the same concerns."

Robert's eyebrows rose in surprise at the question. "Do you want the short or long answer?" He answered.

"Start with the short and then finish the longer answer," Lex replied.

"Jamie, I have no doubts or worries in your ability to take care of Teddy- physically or emotionally. She is in very capable hands," Robert stated plainly.

Lex walked over and sat in the chair to the left of Robert's at the end of the table. "And the longer answer?" He questioned.

Robert held up his finger, stood up and picked up the phone. Mary came in a few moments later with a thick file folder labeled Teddy-Financial Update. She left the room after patting Jamie on the back. "Let's start with what you know about Teddy's financial status- current, future or past," he began the conversation.

"I am aware that she has a trust fund that collects interest. I know that as your only child she should inherit a substantial amount of money. I don't know an exact figure but I would imagine it is over a hundred million," Lex answered.

Robert smiled, "You are partially correct. Let me explain the rest." He spent the next ten minutes explaining Teddy's fifty million trust fund established for her by her paternal grandfather, the yearly interest of approximately one to three million dollars. He then explained the overview of Teddy's inheritance- Robert and Elizabeth's personal value and the value of Baxter Enterprises. Lex's head shot up when he heard the figures, especially the two billion dollar value of the company. 

Robert went on to explain Teddy has only utilized her earned interest from her trust fund  for her own personal use sparingly, mainly to buy her Jeep and pay for some vacations. However, it has been untouched since the beginning of 2018. 

“Untouched?” Lex asked, “What does that mean?”

“Exactly like it sounds,” Robert answered, “Teddy has been completely self-supporting since 2018.” Lex started doing the mental math and Robert interrupted. “I did not state that correctly,” he said, “Since she graduated college, Teddy has supported herself entirely on her salary alone with exception of the few times she dipped into her trust fund interest for the car, vacations and of course the furnishings/house goods for her apartment.” 

“Wait, that’s wrong,” Robert then frowned and flipped through a couple of pages. “Yes, I was wrong. The amount that she withdrew to purchase furniture that she purchased at technically the end of 2017 was reimbursed in full within six months.”

“Furniture?” Lex questioned in his mind. Then he remembered that after the trade she moved into the new apartment and purchased all new things. The furniture and things that they currently used in their new apartment.

Lex sat quietly for a moment while Robert observed him. “Repeat the short answer to me, please,” Lex asked quietly. 

“There are no doubts in my mind that you will take care of Teddy- physically and emotionally,” 

“But not financially,” Lex countered as he looked into Robert’s eyes. 

 Lex’s shoulders slumped. He pushed his chair out, leaned forward to rest his forearms on his thighs and hung his head. Robert studied Lex, reached over and placed his hand over Lex’s hand. “Jamie, look at me,” he said softly.  Lex looked up and met Robert’s eyes. “You are correct- not financially. It’s not because I doubt that you CAN financially support Teddy. What I am saying is that you do not NEED to financially support her,” 

Robert clarified. “I don’t know the details of the financial situation between the two of you. I don’t need to know. Whatever it is, it’s working.” He paused and smiled at Lex. “What I do know is that you are absolutely the best thing to happen to my daughter. I couldn’t ask for a better partner for her. When she was younger, especially after everything with Chaz was revealed to Elizabeth and me, I worried about Teddy’s future. I always knew that she would be financially set. My father made sure of that and I worked to continue that legacy.”

“What concerned me was who was going to love and protect her tender heart and spirit. Now don’t get me wrong, she is tough and strong in ways that I can only imagine. But you know what her heart is sweet and true. She loves in big ways. I am oh-so-thankful to receive that love,” he remarked. “I don’t have those concerns any longer, Jamie,” he stated. “My baby girl is loved and protected and that’s all I care about. It’s all that she cares about.” 

Lex looked at Robert and watched his face soften. His eyes filled with tears and his voice broke, “If, God forbid, I die tomorrow, I can rest assured that I do not have to worry about Teddy. She is sturdy and capable, but most importantly, she has a partner for life. That’s all that a father can ask for. It’s a dream come true.” 

They sat silently for a moment. Robert wiped his tears without apology. Then asked Lex, “Does that answer your question? Do you still have any doubts?”

“Yes, Sir. You answered my question. You eased my mind a lot,” Lex spoke softly. “I just…. I just wanted,” he stammered and his voice broke slightly, “I just want what’s best for her. I didn’t want to be selfish and keep her from having the best life possible.” Lex inhaled deeply and shook his head. He stood up and offered his hand to Robert, “Thank you for taking the time to speak with me. I know how valuable it is.” 

Robert took Lex’s hand and pulled him into a tight hug. “I’ll always have time for you, Jamie. We’re family and I love you. 

Lex squeezed him back, “I love you, too, Robert.”

Robert patted his back and released him, “You and I need to get together some time. We can hit the links without the women. I want to pick your brain” Lex tilted his head in question. “I could use some advice now that Lizzie is attempting therapy. I want to support her as well as you support Teddy. Think that you can give the old man some tips?”

Lex smiled, “I would be glad to give you tips. It’s not that hard though. You just have to love her no matter what.”

Robert started to guide him out of the office. “That I do. I think it’s impossible not to love those two women. Thanks again for stopping by. I’ll give you a call about golf.”

Lex’s phone rang with Teddy’s distinctive ringtone. He picked up the call. 

Lex: Hey Bliss

Teddy: Hey Lex, are you almost home? When will you be here?

Lex: I am just leaving now and should be home in about twenty minutes. What’s up?

Teddy: Momma called and wanted to know if we would like to meet Daddio and her at the club for dinner. Do you want to go? 

Lex smiled brightly: Sure, I would love to have dinner with your parents. 

Teddy: Yay! I’ll let her know. See you soon?

Lex: See you soon Bliss. 

Teddy: Great- bye!

Lex: Hey Bliss

Teddy: Yes?

Lex: I love you so much

Teddy: I love you too. Come home soon. I miss you.

Robert smiled at the conversation and nudged Lex on the shoulder. “I see that our women made plans for us tonight,” he laughed. 

“It does seem so,” Lex laughed as well.

“This is your future now, Jamie,” Robert stood by the door to his office. 

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Lex smiled as he left. 

[shefanispeculator]

You’ve never seen a Raising Cane’s like this one.

The Dallas shop, located near I-35E and W. Northwest Highway in northwest Dallas, ditches Canes’ usual red and yellow logo for a blue and white one. The brick is painted a shiny silver like a football helmet. Inside, customers will find outfits worn by the Grapevine-raised rapper, including some of his “jorts,” socks and sneakers. Designers also hung Cowboys memorabilia like a signed Emmitt Smith jersey.

“Growing up in Dallas, I’ve been a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Cane’s since I was a kid, so it is an honor to be part of this collaboration with two of the greatest franchises in history,” Post Malone said in a statement.

If this seems like a stunt, it’s worth pointing out that the building will operate as a real restaurant. The menu will be nearly identical to the more than 750 restaurants across the globe, and customers will find the expected chicken tenders, Cane’s sauce, crinkle-cut fries, cole slaw and Texas toast. There’s one exception here: Customers can order a Box Combo “the Posty way,” which comes with four chicken fingers, fries, no slaw, extra toast, two Cane’s sauces, salt and pepper packets, a Post Malone sticker and an Arnold Palmer to drink.

Just like our 10-time, Grammy-nominated musician would want it.

[brainrattlers]

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (38/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Warnings: A little bit of language, some implied naked shenanigans, but honestly I think we're alright.

Word Count: 3525

Need Chapter 37? https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-37n/njuzxoktjxn8

Start from the beginning at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Author's Notes: I'm BACK! Decided to hit up a few of the closer Sabres games to me last week, catching both the Dallas and St. Louis games. I think I'm still trying to catch up on sleep... but it was so much fun. The Sabres fans I met at both games were a blast to cheer with. If you happened to see Waldo (of Where's Waldo fame) at the Buffalo/StL game, you found me ;) Thank you all for being patient while I took a little break from writing. And It's nearly 3am so I'm clearly back to my old self - any typos are mine and I'll probably fix them in the morning!

So where were we? Ahhh yes, Tyson and AJ found out the apartment they wanted was available... but he also has a roadie coming up. Will that throw a wrench in the plans to get moved out of the hotel and into a new home?

The next few days were a blur as Tyson was alternating between home and away games, while AJ was finalizing things for a potential move to the new apartment. She had taken the lead on getting things set up, wanting to make the transition as smooth as possible considering it was the middle of the season - moving anytime is stressful. AJ wasn’t connecting the dots though that this is the man that flies all over the continent to play hockey, waking up in different cities, different beds, wasn’t a huge deal. She was probably making it out to be more detrimental to him than it really was.

But more about the apartment, as soon as AJ took Tyson to see it, he knew that was the one. The property manager hadn’t even shown them past the first two rooms but the giddiness on AJ’s face was enough to tell him it was going to be home, at least for now. The master bedroom was huge, with an en suite bath, including both a shower and a bathtub. 

(“No more waiting for you to get out of the tub so I can shower, yeah?” 

“You’re just as guilty of soaking in a nice hot bath. Don’t think I didn’t notice the missing bath bomb from my basket.” 

“Can’t prove it was me.”

“Your legs and torso were slightly shimmery and you smelled of lavender, Jost.”

Tyson sheepishly grinned.)

There was a guest room in case friends or family came into town. Another room that AJ could set up her computer gear, and also work on some art projects. The two figured that a sofa would be super comfy in there as well, one that could turn into a bed for even more guests if necessary. The kitchen was more than large enough for the two of them to dance while doing dishes. 

AJ’s favorite part was how many windows lined the walls. She already could envision stands and shelves of plants flanking them, letting the leaves soak up the natural light that flooded the rooms through various hours of the day. To the west, Key Bank Arena and Lake Erie were visible in the distance.

Hearing of her plans, he couldn’t say no. On top of it making AJ happy, it was a short drive to both the practice rink and the arena. It was a trendy, renovated part of town that was busy with restaurants and things to see and do. They’d be up high enough on the twelfth floor to not be bothered with the street noise. It all just felt right.

Needless to say, they signed a lease that day, and would be able to move in within weeks. This posed a small issue for AJ, but she wasn’t going to make mention of it. At least this time around, Tyson insisted on hiring movers to bring all their stuff up, especially with it being on such a high floor. AJ would just have to direct traffic and then unpack boxes, with all the heavy stuff being put into place already. She wasn’t about to argue about that this time around.

With a loss at home against Florida, the team hit the road for Chicago, losing in OT to one of the league’s worst teams. The next two games were at home, against the Islanders and Ducks. The first game was a win, with Tyson netting himself an assist. The next day found Tyson at practice, and AJ helping the movers get furniture put into place, and boxes all loaded up into various rooms. The remaining items at the hotel were starting to dwindle as AJ moved most of their belongings over.

Coming back from practice, Tyson found the hotel room missing AJ as she was in the process of moving some stuff the few blocks over to the new building. He sighed, looking at the garland and lights that still lined the ceiling of their room. Gently he pulled the hooks from the walls, looping the lights and shiny garland neatly and placing it in one of the empty bins. He honestly was going to miss it at the new place, even though that very same new place was home. 

Even when AJ came back to pick up more stuff, the lack of twinkling lights reflecting against the walls made the place feel empty.

With most everything moved over, the last few things in the room were just pillows, a few sets of clothes, and the last few items needed in the bathroom. AJ had made mention it was going to take a while to get some stuff unpacked, and with Tyson going on the road here in a few days, that maybe they could officially “move in” once he returned. Her outward intent was to get most everything unpacked while he was gone, but that was going to be a little difficult as she actually had some plans already in the works for something else.

The two slept hard that night in the hotel, after moving and unpacking a few boxes, as well as rearranging some furniture. The next morning, AJ was back at it, while Tyson had morning skate before the Anaheim game. Taking some time off, she snagged a ticket and made her way to the arena to cheer on the Sabres with a 6-3 victory. Tyson had a pretty good night, another assist and some pretty good numbers in the box score.

One final night together in the hotel… AJ had issues keeping Tyson focused on getting packed up for the four game roadie, which would send him to Dallas, St. Louis, Winnipeg, and ending in St. Paul. Tyson’s interests were more about some late night shenanigans to literally go out with a bang before officially moving into the new apartment. While getting his backpack filled and his suit laid out for the trip, AJ was trying to secretly pack her own backpack, giving the reason of “oh this is my last bag of stuff to go over.”

Little did Tyson know that, while technically true, that bag was going to be making some of the same stops on the roadie.

That Sunday morning, Tyson had morning practice before heading to the airport. In the same time frame, AJ go the last of their stuff moved from the hotel, and she herself headed to the airport, boarding a different plane. She felt awful for what she was about to do.

AJ: Hey babe, I’m pretty exhausted and am going to crash for a bit. Text me when you land?

She wasn’t lying. The motion sickness pills she downed as she got to the airport were kicking in and she likely was going to sleep on the plane. But all the same, AJ felt a little dirty about it.

Right before takeoff, AJ’s phone, which was supposed to be in airplane mode (seriously, who actually puts their phone in airplane mode when flying?), buzzed in her hand.

Tyson: Sleep well babe, only a few more sleeps until we’re both back in our bed. Heading to the airport here in a bit. Ily

A smile hit AJ’s face, thinking about having a space that was truly theirs, with their own things, and room to move around, and could set up everything the way they wanted. As the plane took off, she fidgeted with the engagement ring on her finger, focusing on it, rather than the upward movement of the plane that made her dizzy. Once at cruising altitude, AJ indeed fell asleep to one of Tyson’s house mixes. It took the passenger next to her tapping her on the shoulder to wake her up as they were landing at DFW - what felt like minutes later, but really was hours.

Collecting her bag and trekking through the airport, AJ found her way to the Orange Line, and took the train into Dallas. It was a quiet day on the train, considering it was not a weekday. Watching out the windows, she took in views she’d never seen before. Hopping off at Victory Station, which spit her out right by the arena, leaving the rest of the way to her hotel as about a half mile walk. Checking in, she made her way to the third floor and faceplanted on the bed.

Tyson: On the ground in Dallas. Miss you already. How’s unpacking?

AJ looked around and saw her bag sitting on the ottoman in her room.

AJ: Honestly haven’t really unpacked much. Kind of relaxing at the moment honestly.

Tyson: Understand completely, no big rush. I think we’re going out for dinner. Talk more later?

AJ: Of course. Have fun! (heart emoji)

Looking at her watch, AJ was trying to figure out what to do with her evening. She didn’t want to chance somehow bumping into Tyson going out for dinner, but at the same time, everything nearby was stupidly pricey in her eyes. In a last minute decision, she put in an order online for Shake Shack, and walked to Crescent Court to pick it up. Thankfully, unlike the last time AJ was at Crescent Court with Jess the year before, there were no team buses or players around. With food in tow, she arrived back at her hotel, sprawling out on the sofa to enjoy dinner and a movie. 

It was driving her nuts though knowing Tyson was maybe a mile away, but she’d see him soon enough.

With a few texts, both insisted they were needing sleep, and that they’d talk more Monday.

Snagging breakfast at the hotel, AJ contemplated what to do before the game that evening. Checking out what was nearby, she walked to the Dallas Museum of Art, taking in a wide variety of pieces by famous artists. At the same time Tyson was a half mile away getting ready for morning skate, with a strange feeling. He couldn’t pinpoint what it was, but something definitely felt odd.

Tyson missed AJ, but it wasn’t the same as other roadies. He had butterflies in his stomach for some reason.

After finishing up at the museum, AJ got in a nap before getting cleaned up and heading to the arena. There were a surprising number of Sabres fans at American Airlines Center. Getting down to the glass on the Sabres’ warmup side, AJ knew where Tyson would be warming up. She had a tiny sign that would fit in her backpack she traveled with.

The fans congregated together, chatting about where everyone was from and who everyone’s favorite players were. While she agreed that Thompson and Dahlin were great players, AJ made mention that Tyson Jost was her favorite. The guy with the kid next to her looked at her weird, but another person piped up, commenting on what a great pickup he was for the Sabres. It made her heart happy.

Looking around the end of the ice, there were a number of other signs for players, including a couple more for Tyson. Impatiently waiting until the 16:00 mark was tough for AJ, but the team took to the ice tossing pucks at Anderson playing in his 700th game. Her eyes followed Tyson around, where they did their initial drills. Tyson went to the other side of the glass, reading a poster another fan had, offering a choice of candy, probably for a puck. He skated back to the bench with something and tossed it to the equipment manager before grabbing a puck and starting his own stickhandling drill.

Not even paying attention, he drilled the puck into the boards directly under AJ’s feet and caught the rebound on his stick. Looking up, he saw a small poster, and then looked up even further to see who was holding it. The smile on his face couldn’t be contained as he skated closer, mouthing “Hey you!” as AJ gave a tiny wave. Leaning down, he got a puck on his stick and sent it over the glass to the kid directly next to her, fist bumping him through the glass. The butterflies in Tyson’s stomach from earlier now made sense.

The guy who previously looked at AJ weird for saying Jost was her favorite tapped her on the shoulder.

“What was that?”

“We’ve known each other since he played for Colorado. Thought I’d surprise him at the game.” AJ chuckled.

With warmups complete, and in fact, Buffalo stayed on the ice longer than the warmup clock lasted just to get under the skin of the Stars, AJ found her seat behind the Sabres’ bench. Luckily it was filled with other Sabres fans and she made some new friends that night. The game started off not so great with the Stars scoring within the first two minutes, but the Sabres fired back later in the first. The game went silent in the 2nd, but in the third period, the Sabres scored early to have a 2-1 lead. Later in the period, the Stars tied it up. Throughout the game, Tyson glanced back finding AJ cheering for the team in white and blue.

The Sabres held on to take it to OT.

“I’m standing up,” Dan, AJ’s new friend sitting next to her, stated. “With our top lines out there 3-on-3, this isn’t going to last long. We’re standing up.”

Everyone stood up behind the bench, which pissed off the row behind them, but it was well worth it. Power scored fifty-six seconds into the overtime period, giving the Sabres the win. The Sabres fans cheered, while the Stars fans were left sulking as they walked the stairs to the concourse of the arena. The team piled into the dressing room, and headed for the airport as they were to play St. Louis the next day.

Tyson: EGGO you’re crazy for flying out here! I love you for it though, made my night.

AJ: Crazy about YOU! Fun game. Wish I were flying with you tonight.

Tyson: Me too. When do you fly out?

AJ had to word this very carefully.

AJ: My flight is at 11:15. Figured I could at least score some breakfast before I leave (lol emoji)

Tyson: Text me when you land? We’re taking off.

AJ: You know it babe. Safe travels, love you!

AJ was asleep when the next text hit her phone, of Tyson landing in St. Louis. He was glad she seemingly slept through it. As much as he still loved getting to say “text you when I land” and then doing so, he always felt a little pang of guilt if she’d text back at 3am wherever she was in comparison. At the same time he did enjoy some of her sleepy text typos, and imagining her bleary-eyed in bed texting him back.

What did wake AJ up was her alarm so she would make it downstairs to, yes, get breakfast, pack up, and take the train back to DFW. Not thinking fully about the weather when she packed, as soon as she took a few steps onto the sidewalk of Harry Hines Blvd, it started raining, and she did not pack her umbrella. Walking under overhangs as much as she could, which was tough around the arena because there aren’t any, AJ was becoming more and more soggy as she reached the train stop. Thankfully she made it just in time for the Orange line back, and sat back as it poured down rain the whole way to the airport. Once through security, she sat next to a window with a mint hot chocolate from Dunkin watching the rain.

A quick text was sent as she boarded the plane, and was finally in the air. A bit later, she was on the ground again. AJ’s Lyft driver was awesome, the two chatted the whole way from the airport to her destination. However, that text she said she’d send was a little delayed.

AJ: Hey, on the ground. How was your flight?

Tyson: It was alright, got in around 1am like you saw. Yours?

AJ: Not bad. Hoped I’d get some sleep but didn’t. Oh damn it’s almost time for you to get ready to play, isn’t it? Kick some ass tonight, Jost. (heart emoji)

Tyson: Only because you said so. Going to miss you in the stands, last night spoiled me.

AJ: You’ll see me soon enough. I’ll be watching the game, cheering you on!

Tyson stared at the last message, getting that odd feeling he had in Dallas again.

“Surely she isn’t here… no… she went back home, right?” 

A few of the guys in the dressing room noticed how antsy Tyson was to get out onto the ice for warmups. Kyle was giving him shit for the fact AJ was in Dallas to surprise him the night before, and how he was acting like his kids do when they are excited to be going out for ice cream. The feeling in Tyson’s stomach wasn’t subsiding. He was fidgeting with the tape on his stick waiting for the moment they could take the ice. 

Keeping his normal focus was difficult as warmups began, and he started scanning the glass. There were a number of fans, both for the Sabres and Blues already lined up. With a deep breath he went back to doing drills, trying to push the butterflies down. Okie skated up along the boards and stopped, looking back and winking at the person behind him.

As the team drills wound down, Tyson went back toward the center line doing some stretches, when someone caught his eye. Squinting, suddenly his eyes went wide as he continued warming up his legs. Hopping up, he grabbed a puck to do his drills between the blue line and the faceoff circle. 

Finishing up, he attempted to get the puck to hop onto his stick blade, but he missed not once, but twice. Looking up, his face was a little flushed as he smiled at AJ, still fumbling around. Reaching down, trying to just simply pick up the puck with his gloves, Tyson still was struggling. Finally with the puck in his hands, and his face now full on blushing, he got the puck over to the kids slapping the glass next to her. With a look back and wink at AJ, he felt like the luckiest man on Earth that his fiancee was at the game again, even if she weren’t behind the bench this time around.

There were definitely less Sabres fans at this game in St. Louis than in Dallas, but AJ made the best of it with her #LETSGOBUFFALO sign as she sat behind the Sabres Attack Twice goal. What made it even better was the 5-3 win over the Blues… especially with AJ’s history with games in St. Louis. 

What made the night less stellar was that St. Louis was under a winter storm warning until noon the next day, and AJ’s flight was leaving the next morning at 5:40AM, with her Lyft coming at 3:10AM. She was terrified of one of three things happening:

She was going to oversleep, the original plan was actually to stay awake until her ride arrived.

Her ride was going to cancel and she would have no way to get to the airport on time.

The airport was going to shut down due to the weather.

Thankfully none of these happened, and she did in fact make it to the airport in time. After getting through security (being harassed by a rather rude TSA agent that thought she had something on her ankle, which, surprise, there was nothing but her ankle there), she made her way to Starbucks to snag a drink and prepare for the first of two flights. The snow was really starting to come down though and made her worried.

Just like Tyson’s gut was telling him something the previous few days, her’s was now talking to her.

Tyson and the team had flown out of St. Louis after the game thankfully, and he was safe on the ground in Winnipeg.

Knowing he was asleep, AJ just sent a quick note that she was at the airport, indeed going back to Buffalo, as much as she wanted to continue the roadie with him. She was nervous about the weather, hoping to make her connection as she was already delayed 40 minutes. The plus side, the flight wasn’t full and she ended up getting her own row on that flight.

On the ground in Dallas again, she was stressing hardcore about the connection, it was in a completely different terminal. But the flight deities smiled upon AJ that day and somehow getting out of the jetway and down the hallway, she found herself in Terminal B, right near her gate that had not yet started boarding.

AJ: Made my connection, heading home to Buffalo. (heart emoji)

Tyson looked sleepily at his phone screen with one eye, then put it back on the nightstand next to him. A warm feeling filled his chest upon seeing AJ call Buffalo “home.”

[bowmanstudios]

GEAR

Microphones:

Sure sm57

Sure sm58

Audix i5

Sure Beta 52

Blue Snowball

Behringer C-2 (pair)

Samson C01

Rode NT1A

Hardware:

Scarlett 18i0 audio interface

Mackie 1402-VLZ PRO 14 channel mic/line analog mixer

Guitar amps and pedals:

Helix HX STOMP

Ibanez Turbo Tube screamer

Guitars:

Fender GC140SCE Concert Acoustic-Electric

Yamaha FX335C Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric

Ovation 1311 Natural Acoustic

Fender Nashville Telecaster

Fender Squire Bullet Telecaster

Fender Squire Jazz Bass

Mitchell MU40 Soprano Natural Ukulele

Yamaha CGS 102A Classical Guitar

Keyboards:

Nektar Impact LX61+

Roland U-20

Drums and percussion:

1 big tambourine

1 small tambourine

LP Medium twist shakers

Simmons Titan 50 electronic drum set

Sound Monitoring:

JBL Professional Linear Spatial Reference 3 Series powered studio monitors (pair)

Sony Professional MDR-7506 studio headphones

Sennheiser HD 201 studio headphones

KRK Classic 5 studio monitors (pair)

Computers and visuals:

Apple MacBook Pro 13 inch

Dell flat panel monitor

DAW/software:

Logic Pro X

Pro Tools 12

GarageBand

Avid/Apple/Native Instruments/SoundToys/FabFilter/Waves plugins

Helix HX Edit

Plugins:

Digital EQ’s:

Waves V-EQ4

Fabfilter Pro-Q

Digital Reverbs:

Waves Abbey Road Chambers

Waves H-Reverb Hybrid Verb

Waves Renaissance Reverb

Waves Manny Marroquin Reverb

Relab Development LX480 Reverb

Digital Compressors:

Waves Renaissance Compressor

Waves CLA-3A Compressor/Limiter

Waves Smack Attack

Waves DeEsser

Extras:

Waves SSL G-Channel

Waves Nx Ocean Way Nashville

Waves Z-Noise

Waves WLM Plus Loudness Meter

Waves Tune Real-Time

Waves Vocal Bender

Waves Torque

Waves CLA Bass

Waves Abbey Road J37 Tape

SoundToys Echoboy

VST’s:

Spectronics Keyscapes

Native Instruments Battery

Toontrack EZdrummer 3

Native Instruments Kontakt Electric Guitar

Accessories/miscellaneous/other studio features:

4 XLR cables

4 1/4 inch jack cables

Power supply cables

USB outlet strip

High speed internet and free WIFI

Pencils, pens and paper

Wireless printer available

5 mic stands

Shock mount, pop filter, and 3 windscreens

HEAROS Ultimate Softness earplugs

Mini Samsung T.V. with Roku entertainment

RIF6 electric record player with built-in speakers

Dean Markley Pro Mag humbucker pickup

Culilux 1/4” audio splitter

Rioddas external ODD&HDD disc drive

Pack of CDs for burning

Guitar pick maker with appropriate paper

3 microphone clips

Alesis sustain pedal

Radial PRO-DI passive direct box

DeltaLab digital metronome

AKAI MPD218 beat pad

GiveBest electric heater

Behringer ULTRAACOUSTIC AT109 15-WATT acoustic guitar amplifier

OWC thunderbolt USB-C dock

APC surge protector

MOONGEL damper pads

Pick holder filled with guitar picks (floppy and hard) and a set of thumb picks

2 capos and clip on tuner

KORG TM-50 combo tuner and metronome

Mackie 1402-VLZ PRO 14 channel mic/line analog mixer

NEXIGO web cam

Big Knob passive monitor controller

The Bowman Studios, Dallas, Texas

Producers: Mason Bowman

[10point-must]

Spence - Crawford Preview: Errol Spence Jr Last 5

Errol Spence fights Terence Crawford in Las Vegas on July 29th --- a fight I’ve been hoping for for years. We’ll do an abridged last 5 for each of them, since they’ve been covered pretty extensively here over the years. Today we’ll look at Errol Spence Jr, a fighter I really like, but who’s gear has gone from good to good and terrible over the past few years. Weird amounts of fur, incongruous color combinations etc.

Things were less crazy back in June of 2018 when he beat Carlos Ocampo in Dallas:

A full Dallas Cowboys set with black adidas shoes and Everlast gloves. Referenced here in a previous Spence last 5, in case you want to look back all the way to 2016.

He beat Mikey Garcia in Dallas in March of 2019 wearing sort of a distressed white and gold look:

It was a terrible fight, so I covered it only very briefly here.

In September of 2019 Spence beat Shawn Porter by decision in Los Angeles wearing a nice black and snakeskin set:

Zero complaints with this look from Spence. Full review of this fight here.

Spence had his car accident shortly after this fight, and recovered for 15 months before fighting Danny Garcia in Dallas in December 2020:

This is when things started getting a little weird. Spence was consistent with his use of Everlast gloves and Adidas shoes -- but suddenly there was lots of neon, fur and clashing materials. Full review of this fight here, warning to those who are photosensitive.

 In April of 2022 Spence fought again after a lengthy layoff (largely due to a retina injury) -- brutally stopping Yordenis Ugas in 10 rounds in Dallas.

Obviously, Spence is slowly becoming Matthew Lesko. Or maybe The Joker? Anyway - full review of this fight here. 

July 29th is coming up fast.

Respect box.

[x--daughters-of-darkness--x]

NITA STRAUSS ANNOUNCES SUMMER HEADLINING TOUR

Alice Cooper shredder hitting the road with solo band

Nita Strauss is hitting the road this summer with her solo band. The superstar shredder, who recently rejoined Alice Cooper's band after taking a hiatus to tour as a member of popstar-turned-pop-punker Demi Lovato's backing ensemble, has announced a slew of U.S. headlining dates.

Kicking off June 3rd in Nashville, the tour will travel from coast to coast before wrapping up July 14th in New Orleans, and Lions at the Gates will be supporting the whole trek. Tickets go on sale this Friday May 7th at 10 a.m. local time, and you can get yours here. 

See the full list of dates below. 

Strauss recently dropped a new song with Alice Cooper and is gearing up to release her long-awaited new solo album. 

Nita Strauss, Lions at the Gates 2023 tour dates:  6/13 Nashville, TN @ Exit/ In 6/14 Atlanta, GA @ The Loft 6/15 Greensboro, NC @ The Hangar 1819 6/17 New York, NY @ The Meadows 6/18 Toronto, ONT @ Horseshoe Tavern 6/19 Mechanicsburg, PA @ Lovedrafts 6/21 Harrison, OH @ The Blue Note 6/22 Flint, MI @ The Machine Shop 6/23 Angola, IN @ The Eclectic Room 6/24 Bloomington, IL @ The Castle Theatre 6/25 Madison, WI @ The Majestic Theatre 6/26 Omaha, NE @ The Waiting Room 6/28 Denver, CO @ The Bluebird Theater 6/29 Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge 6/30 Boise, ID @ Neurolux 7/1 Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre 7/2 Vancouver, BC @ The Rickshaw Theatre 7/3 Seattle, WA @ El Corazon 7/5 Sacramento, CA @ Goldfield Trading Post 7/6 Los Angeles, CA @ Whisky A Go Go 7/8 Las Vegas, NV @ The Space 7/9 Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom 7/11 San Antonio, TX @ The Rock Box 7/12 Dallas, TX @ Trees 7/13 Houston, TX @ Scout Bar 7/14 New Orleans, LA @ The Parish at House of Blues

[freshmilktee]

Dallas Mavericks NBA x Grateful Dead Night Hoodie by Freshmilktee

Dallas Mavericks NBA x Grateful Dead Night Hoodie �� A Perfect Blend of Basketball and Music, Naturally Crafted by Freshmilktee

If you’re a fan of the Dallas Mavericks and Grateful Dead, the Dallas Mavericks NBA x Grateful Dead Night Hoodie, naturally crafted by Freshmilktee, is the ultimate addition to your wardrobe. This exclusive collaboration brings together two iconic brands, combining the energy of basketball with the legendary vibes of the Grateful Dead. Whether you’re cheering on the Mavericks or attending a Grateful Dead concert, this hoodie is the perfect piece to showcase your love for both, while being sustainably made at Freshmilktee.

Exclusive Mavericks x Grateful Dead Collaboration, Naturally Made

The Mavericks Grateful Dead collaboration, naturally crafted by Freshmilktee, is a special edition hoodie that captures the essence of both the NBA and the Grateful Dead in one stylish garment. This Dallas Mavericks Grateful Dead hoodie features unique designs that blend the boldness of NBA apparel with the psychedelic, musical flair of Grateful Dead imagery. Perfect for NBA Grateful Dead merchandise collectors or anyone who appreciates both teams, this hoodie is a must-have item in the NBA Grateful Dead night collection, designed with care at Freshmilktee.

Grateful Dead-Themed NBA Apparel for Every Fan

The Grateful Dead NBA hoodie, naturally made by Freshmilktee, offers a fresh take on traditional sportswear, adding a creative twist to your game-day outfit. With the Mavericks and Grateful Dead clothing collection, you can represent your team while showcasing your musical tastes. This hoodie is a standout piece in the NBA x Grateful Dead apparel line, providing a fashionable and functional option for all fans of both the Mavericks and the Grateful Dead. Whether you’re looking for Mavericks fan hoodie or Grateful Dead night gear, this hoodie ticks all the boxes for style, comfort, and sustainability.

Dallas Mavericks Concert Gear – A Fan’s Dream

For Mavericks fan gear enthusiasts or Deadheads looking to merge their love for basketball and music, this Dallas Mavericks concert hoodie, naturally made at Freshmilktee, is a dream come true. Featuring distinctive graphics, it embodies the spirit of both worlds, making it the perfect way to gear up for NBA Grateful Dead night events. It’s more than just a Mavericks Grateful Dead night apparel item—it’s a piece of history that celebrates two worlds coming together in one cohesive design, crafted sustainably by Freshmilktee.

Stylish, Comfortable, and Unique

The Dallas Mavericks special edition hoodie, naturally made by Freshmilktee, is crafted with the finest materials to ensure comfort whether you’re at the game or relaxing at home. This Grateful Dead basketball hoodie combines the classic basketball hoodie design with psychedelic patterns and bold colors, making it a statement piece for any fan. It’s a Mavericks Grateful Dead fan gear item that offers both style and warmth, perfect for wearing during NBA Grateful Dead night events or casual outings.

Get Your Hands on This Limited Edition Hoodie

This limited-edition Dallas Mavericks Grateful Dead night collection, naturally crafted by Freshmilktee, celebrates the merger of two legendary icons. Don’t miss your chance to own this piece of Grateful Dead NBA merch before it’s gone. With its bold design and special collaboration, this hoodie is a must-have for anyone who loves basketball and Grateful Dead hoodie fashion. It’s not just a hoodie; it’s a part of the Mavericks and Grateful Dead special edition line, so act fast and grab yours while supplies last.

Whether you’re looking to support the Mavericks or rep your favorite music group, this Grateful Dead themed hoodie, naturally crafted by Freshmilktee, combines the best of both worlds in one sleek design. Perfect for all Deadheads, Mavericks fans, and those who appreciate unique and stylish NBA Grateful Dead collection items, this Dallas Mavericks NBA x Grateful Dead hoodie is sure to make an impact at every event.

View Product: https://freshmilktee.com/product/dallas-mavericks-nba-x-grateful-dead-night-hoodie/

Home Page: https://freshmilktee.com/

[ticketsearch]

Netherlands t20 World Cup 2024

The Netherlands cricket team is gearing up to participate in the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024, set to be held from June 1 to June 29, 2024. The tournament will be hosted across the West Indies and the United States of America. During the group stage, the Netherlands team is scheduled to compete in four matches, facing off against teams like Nepal, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka at various venues across the host countries. This presents an exciting opportunity for the Dutch cricket team to showcase their skills on the international stage and compete against some of the world's top cricketing nations.

Ticket prices for the Netherlands T20 World Cup 2024 start from $50 onwards, with various seating options available, such as Sports Bar & Grill - SRO for $250, Picnic Row for $250, Field Box for $350, and The Terrace for $400. Fans can purchase tickets from the official website of the tournament.

To purchase tickets online, fans can follow these steps:

Visit the official Sports ICC T20 World Cup website.

Select the match and seats of your choice.

Add tickets to the cart.

Log in or create an account.

Enter personal and payment details.

Review and confirm the booking.

Check email for confirmation and tickets.

The Netherlands T20 World Cup 2024 squad includes players like Scott Edwards (c), Aryan Dutt, Bas de Leede, Kyle Klein, Logan van Beek, Max O'Dowd, Michael Levitt, Paul van Meekeren, Saqib Zulfiqar, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Teja Nidamanuru, Tim Pringle, Vikram Singh, Viv Kingma, and Wesley Barresi.

Here's the schedule for the Netherlands T20 World Cup matches:

Tue, Jun 4: Netherlands vs. Nepal at Dallas, Grand Prairie Stadium (3:30 PM GMT / 10:30 AM Local Time)

Sat, Jun 8: Netherlands vs. South Africa at New York, Nassau County International Stadium (2:30 PM GMT / 2:30 PM Local Time)

Thu, Jun 13: Bangladesh vs. Netherlands at Kingstown, St Vincent, Arnos Vale Ground (2:30 PM GMT / 10:30 AM Local Time)

Mon, Jun 17: Sri Lanka vs. Netherlands at Gros Islet, St Lucia, Daren Sammy National Stadium (12:30 AM GMT / 8:30 PM Local Time)

This promises to be an exhilarating tournament for the Netherlands cricket team, and fans can look forward to thrilling matches and unforgettable moments on the field.

[ali2233-z]

BREAKING - Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson OFFICIAL on Netflix- The Boxing world REACTS

Jake Paul will fight Mike Tyson in Dallas, Texas on July 20th in Dallas, Texas! As the two gear up for what could possible be the biggest fight of 2024. As the boxing world reacts to the news and give their take on the fight! Subscribe: http://goo.gl/vnzIb Stage Front VIP is the proud sponsor of Fight Hub TV - https://stagefrontvip.com/ Stage Front VIP offers exclusive VIP packages for some of the biggest fights and sporting events in the world. International or domestic, check out the incredible VIP packages for Boxing, MMA, horse racing, soccer, and more premium events at stagefront.vip today!

[shopmyworld]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Game Stop DIRK NOWITZKI Power Player Dallas Mavericks Collectible BobbleHead NEW.

[krunchymunchy]

I'd tap on the keyboard, entering my password. "Greetings, Lieutenant Grey." the terminal had written on the monitor, now having access to the logs. I'd continue to tap while accessing the logs, specifically the 911 calls from day zero, AUG 16, 2040 I'd hover the mouse over to the logs and clicked on the MP3 of CALL 987888109-1, I'd click play. "Dallas 9-1-1, do you require Police, Fire, or Medical?" "I need an officer, please. Some guy is just running in the street, he looks like he hasn't seen the sun in fuckin' years; Probably on drugs" "What's the location of your emergency, sir?" "It's at South Harword Street, nearest cross-street is Corinth." "Alright, remain on the line as I dispatch an officer to your area." "Alri- Hey hey what the fuck? He just ran into a fucking car!" Muffled screaming could be heard, all I could make out is "If he good, bro?" "Sir, do you need medical as well?" "I think so becau- Holy fucking shit he's eating him!" "Sorry sir could you repeat that? You said he's eating him?" "Yeah! He just ripped into the drivers fucking throat! Holy fucking shit should I do something?!" "Remain calm sir, back up from the situation and wait until police respond." "Dude he's getting up, he has so much fucking blood on him! How is he even alive? He should be injured badly from that crash, he was going at least forty!" "Sir Please just keep yourself away from the scene until police arrive." "I think I hear the sirens now, but- Hey hey dude back the fuck up! I said back up!" "Sir are you alright?" "He's walking towards me like some fucking lunatic! Hey dude fuck off! I have the cops on the line, they're gonna fucking shoot you if you continue to come at me!" "Sir police response is less than a minute away" "Good bec- AAAHH" the phone fell, the only thing you could hear was the tearing of flesh and screaming. "Sir are you okay? Officers should be on scene now. Can you hear me?" The call abruptly ended, shortly after you could hear tires screeching and shouting, probably from the officers. I moved the mouse and closed the file, sighing to myself as I put my fingers on the bridge of my nose. I wiped my face as I looked around, obviously no one was here, it's been two weeks since that call. I scrolled through the files of call logs, tens of thousands of calls just from that day, and that only ended because the phone lines went down shortly went out after a few hours later. I sat back up and stretched, feeling my back pop as I sighed; I'm really too old for this fucking shit, I thought to myself. I grabbed my shotgun and went into the armory, I grabbed my key and opened it, shockingly no one had entered since day one, and all the gear was still there. I grabbed a couple boxes of shells and left, leaving the armory unlocked for some poor soul to wander into and find himself a huge pay day. Not like I was going to need it anyway, the only reason I came down here was to get enough ammo for my judgement day; At least that's what I've heard other people call it. I loaded the shells into the drum mag and loaded it in. Found this AA12 in some poor dead bastards car awhile back, so I figured if he ain't using it, I might as well use it. I grabbed the keys to the stations cars and pressed the unlock button, finding which car it unlocked. I found it and tossed my shotgun to the passenger seat, starting the engine. Surprisingly, this cars gas hasn't been syphoned yet, so lucky me I guess. I turned on the radio, hoping someone would answer- but no one did. I radioed just for my amusement "This is Lieutenant Grey, unit 1662, final 10-8, 41. Going code 3 to unknown. For anyone still out there, may God bless you and I send my final goodbyes and prayers for your survival." I hung up the radio as I turned on my lights and sirens. I drove out of the parking lot and into the road, back to that call I first responded to.

[abyssal-endling]

Promise

When Houston left, the safehouse's shift to an uncomfortable silence was near immediate. It was easy to see how hard Dallas was taking it, less focused, more irritable- especially within that first week.

Chains would find him sitting by the van, staring, like he could will Houston to return if he waited long enough. Hoxton found Dallas staring at old photos of the two of them from their childhood and Houston's gear- mask, suit jacket, tool box- constantly in his office. Once or twice, Hoxton tried to get a rise out of him to shake him out of his apathy. When Dallas barely responded, the Brit's heart lurched, the twisting in his stomach refusing to settle.

When the third week started, Hoxton started feeling the absence more. He'd spent a good amount of time poking fun at the younger Steele brother- a distraction from prison and feelings it had left him with. Now, he was left without that distraction, forced to face the betrayal he'd felt more head on, look the trauma of it in the face. He became quieter, butting heads with the others if they pushed him to talk. Not even Wolf was spared.

Clover wouldn't say anything, but she'd seen Dallas and Hoxton's tears before on the cameras. The one that got to her the most was Chains's.

She had never known Chains to be sad, and seeing him sob quietly in the garage...

Clover wasn't as technologically literate as Locke, Joy, or Bain, but she knew a thing or two, and Joy was easy to convince. Clover hadn't known that Houston and Joy were close, playing old video games together and sitting in silence, listening to music or going over stealth techniques together. Joy missed her friend, and she wanted to know he was okay.

As the two worked, Joy seemed to be lost in thought, her hands stopping as the time ticked on.

"What is it?" Clover asked.

Joy swallowed, turning. "I just realized... Myshka. I've barely seen them since, since we told them Houston left-"

Clover's blood ran cold. "Maybe... Maybe they went with Vlad?"

The two stared at each other for a moment before both frantically moving to call Locke.

[fawcettfotos]

The Maple Leafs start 2023, like their season opener, with a loss, in the shoot out. They did get 1 point in this barn burner, but probably still was shaking the stars from the partying on New Years Eve, like the Turkey Brain they had after Boxing day when they beat the St. Louis Blues in Overtime, and that was a barn burner too 😏😂😂. This concludes the first home game of 2023. LET'S GOOOOO ! But even though they loss in the shootout, it was one heck of a hockey game, and what better way to spend it with a True Gem like @j.pieke A True Brother from another Mother and I didn't mind him wearing his St. Louis Gear LOL. we had a blast and lots of laughs and it was great catching up! All the best in your move Buddddy ! what a a game !!!! !! ! As a Leafs Season Ticket Holder, For the Games that I attend.... I'm... 7-1-1, the first Shootout of the Year when it comes To The Toronto Maple Leafs and yes, a loss, but one point ! Next game is against the Seattle Kraken! Let's GOOOO ! 3-2 Washington ✔️ 3-2 Ottawa ✔️ 3-2 Dallas [OT]✔️ 2-1 Boston ✔️ 4-2 Pittsburgh loss ❌️ 3-2 Vancouver ✔️ 5-4 Calgary ✔️(OT) 4-3 Philadelphia ✔️ 3-2 St. Louis loss [Shootout] ❌️ after (5-5 Tie) LET'S GOOOO !!!!! hahahaha just saying, my road record this year in 2023 is 0-0 LOL 🤫🤭🤭 #pictureaday #picaday2023 #pictureaday2023 #instagram2023 #2023instagram  #pictureofday2023 #insta2023 #instagram #2023 #pictureofaday2023 #picoftheday #picoftheday2023 3/365 #3of365 #2023Pictures #1picaday https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm-ljQDMW-d/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=