#bus companies calgary

[gocalgaryshuttlesservices]

Planning your wedding transportation? Choose reliable and stylish options for a smooth, memorable experience. From luxury cars to minibus charters, wedding transportation ensures your guests and bridal party arrive on time and in comfort. Make your special day even more unforgettable with professional drivers, seamless service, and a variety of transport choices tailored to your needs. Visit us:

[charter-bus-canada]

The Ultimate Guide to Charter Bus Travel Between Edmonton and Calgary

Traveling between Edmonton and Calgary can be an exciting journey, whether for business, leisure, or an event. One of the most convenient, comfortable, and reliable ways to make this trip is by opting for charter bus services. With professional drivers, spacious interiors, and a range of amenities, charter buses offer a stress-free travel experience. If you're planning a trip and considering charter bus services, this guide will help you understand the benefits and how to make the most of your travel between these two cities.

Why Choose Charter Bus for Travel Between Edmonton and Calgary?

Traveling between Edmonton and Calgary by charter bus is an excellent choice for several reasons. Whether you’re organizing a group trip, a family reunion, or even business transportation, a charter bus offers several advantages over other modes of transport.

Comfortable and Spacious Travel

A charter bus provides ample space for everyone. With comfortable seating, large windows for scenic views, and the ability to move around freely, you can relax during the journey. It’s ideal for those long trips where comfort is a priority.

Affordable Group Travel

Traveling by charter bus is also cost-effective when you're going with a group. Rather than paying for individual flights, train tickets, or car rentals, renting a coach bus for your group ensures everyone travels together without the hassle of coordinating multiple bookings.

Eco-Friendly Option

Opting for a charter bus between Edmonton and Calgary can also reduce your carbon footprint. With fewer vehicles on the road and more people sharing the same bus, it’s a greener mode of transportation compared to individual car journeys.

Safe and Reliable

Charter bus services provide experienced drivers who are well-versed in handling long-distance routes. This gives you peace of mind knowing that safety is a top priority. Professional charter bus services are also known for their reliability, ensuring you arrive at your destination on time.

Coach Bus Rental: A Flexible Travel Solution

When you opt for a coach bus rental, you’re choosing a highly flexible option for travel. Whether it’s a large corporate group, a school trip, or a wedding party, coach buses can be customized to meet your specific needs.

Customizable Itinerary

One of the key benefits of a coach bus rental is that you have control over your travel schedule. You can set pick-up and drop-off points, as well as adjust your stops along the way, allowing for a more personalized journey between Edmonton and Calgary.

Onboard Amenities

Modern coach buses come with a variety of amenities that make long-distance travel much more enjoyable. Many buses are equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, and comfortable seating. Some even have entertainment systems, so you can enjoy a movie or music during the ride.

Winter Travel: Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Trip

Winter travel between Edmonton and Calgary can present some unique challenges, especially when it comes to road conditions. However, charter buses are well-equipped to handle these conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Be Prepared for Changing Weather Conditions

During winter months, the weather between Edmonton and Calgary can be unpredictable. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can make driving conditions challenging. However, charter buses are designed to handle such conditions. Buses are equipped with snow tires and experienced drivers are trained to navigate safely on icy roads.

Pack Warm Clothing

Even though you'll be traveling in the comfort of a charter bus, it's always a good idea to dress in layers during winter. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Many buses have onboard heaters, but it’s always better to be prepared for the cold when you step outside at rest stops.

Keep Your Schedule Flexible

Winter conditions can occasionally cause delays, so it’s wise to plan your itinerary with a little extra time. Charter bus companies will often have contingency plans in place, and their drivers are used to adjusting to changing road conditions to keep you on schedule.

Coach Bus Sherwood Park: Convenient Local Pick-Up and Drop-Off

For travelers starting their journey from Sherwood Park, charter bus services offer convenient local pick-up options. Whether you need to catch a ride from your neighborhood or a local landmark, coach bus services in Sherwood Park can accommodate your needs.

Seamless Connections

Traveling to Edmonton from Sherwood Park and then catching a charter bus to Calgary is a seamless experience. The convenience of local pick-ups ensures you can easily join your group without the need to travel far. Local services make it easier for smaller groups to join the main route, ensuring everyone gets to their destination efficiently.

Hassle-Free Experience

Using a coach bus rental from Sherwood Park to Edmonton and then on to Calgary eliminates the stress of managing multiple transportation options. You won’t need to worry about parking, navigating busy roads, or coordinating with other drivers. Everything is taken care of when you book a coach bus rental.

Reasons to Choose Charter Buses for Your Next Trip

If you're still unsure whether a charter bus is the right choice for your trip, here are a few reasons to consider charter buses for your next travel between Edmonton and Calgary:

Stress-Free Travel

Forget about the hassle of driving, paying for gas, or dealing with traffic. A charter bus allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. Whether you're traveling alone or with a group, your travel time is spent on relaxation or socializing rather than worrying about the road.

Group Convenience

Charter buses are perfect for group travel. Whether it’s for a corporate event, family vacation, or sports team trip, everyone can travel together. You can coordinate your schedules and stay together as a group, eliminating the confusion and hassle of arranging multiple transportation modes.

Perfect for Special Events

If you’re attending a special event, such as a wedding, concert, or sports game, charter buses provide the perfect solution for event transportation. They can accommodate large groups, ensuring everyone arrives at the venue on time and in style.

Charter Bus Calgary: Your Destination Awaits

Once you arrive in Calgary, your journey doesn’t have to end. Charter buses can take you to the city's major attractions, whether you're here for leisure or a corporate event.

Explore Calgary

From the Calgary Tower to the Stampede Grounds, a charter bus service can transport you to the best spots around the city. If you're traveling for a specific event, like the Calgary Stampede or a conference, the charter bus service can ensure you get there without any stress.

Custom Itineraries for Calgary Visitors

Charter bus services in Calgary can also offer personalized tours of the city. You can request a sightseeing tour or have your bus make multiple stops at different points of interest, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.

Book Your Charter Bus Today!

Now that you know the benefits of charter bus travel between Edmonton and Calgary, it's time to start planning your journey. Whether you're booking a coach bus rental for a special event, winter travel, or group tour, charter buses offer a reliable and comfortable option for your trip.

Contact Us at GO COACH CHARTERS

At GO COACH CHARTERS, we specialize in providing top-notch charter bus services between Edmonton, Calgary, and beyond. Our team is committed to ensuring your trip is smooth, safe, and enjoyable. For inquiries, bookings, or more information, contact us today!

Don't wait—book your charter bus today and make your next journey between Edmonton and Calgary stress-free and memorable.

[allthecanadianpolitics]

A new inter-city bus service is up and running in Edmonton.

FlixBus is a low-cost bus service offering trips to Calgary, Red Deer and Lethbridge.

The Munich-based company took over Greyhound Lines Inc. in 2021. It started service in Edmonton on Friday.

There will be four daily trips from Edmonton to Calgary and Red Deer. One bus a day will travel to Lethbridge, with stops in Claresholm, Fort McLeod and Okotoks.

"Edmonton and Calgary, as much as we may feel there's a rivalry, there's also tons of mutual connections and families and friends. So just enabling more of that visiting, connecting, I think it's a really positive thing," said Edmonton Coun. Anne Stevenson. [...]

Continue Reading.

Tagging: @politicsofcanada, @abpoli

[solar-sunnyside-up]

tell to me about the info

Really??? 👉👈

Okkk soooooo this is our project up in Calgary. Recently there's been a lot of drama about it as the provincial Cons attempted to cancel the project due to them being owned by Oil lobbies, but due to the accumulated $200million in fines for not honoring contracts made with construction companies had to go back and build at least half of the train line.

Now out of the 8 stops on the new line, there are really only 4 I'm mega invested in.

Ogden-

This is the one closest to my house. There's a few extra pieces of info that can't be seen by the maps, mainly that the reason for all this Plaza space in the front is due to the fact that they are also building a skate park about 2 blocks away and when I asked about the potential hostile architecture being added to the station they actually pointed out they wanted skaters to go to the Plaza and have ppl use bikes/skates/boards/etc.. within the space!!also that events could be held there in the summer.

The second thing is that this is across the street from our local pub/petstore/chruch/playgroup in a kinda strip mall type thing. Meaning people will have access to these things from the other side of the community without driving which is great particularly in the winter when we have -60c temps sometimes. Also as a result of the higher traffic they are completely redoing the crosswalk/adding bus stops within this area which is well over due as it's a super big hazard!

Additionally the heated bus stops as well as a noise barrier for the Canadian Rail line that is sooo noisey on our street.

Lynn/Millican-

This one is a little less exciting, but basically there's this stretch of land that's primarily for baseball diamonds meaning its barren come winter. Within the corner of said park, they're adding this station with a bus hub, better crosswalks, and is the other end of my community.

There's also fruit trees and a "park and go" parking lot - which was apart of a program by city originally came up with in the 80s basically allowing free parking at a train station to encourage people to park at the station then take the train into the cities center (which at the time was primarily offices but nows a lot of residential and retail spaces). This was basically to avoid traffic jams and over parking in the core of the city. Given that we have over 200 parking lots (which cost between 19-25$/hr when our minimum wage is $15/hr) this is exciting to see them invest in this style again!

26th Ave-

Now this one I'm so jazzed for!!! This location is in a spot where basically 1 bus goes by regularly and half the community is still unaccessable except by foot without sidewalks. Now, as we can see they are adding extra crosswalks and its also right next door to a farmers market!! Our oldest one in the city and is so popular people are constantly fighting over the parking and this will make it sooo much safer. Attached to the market is also a theater which is great for ease of access to arts!

Ramsay/Inglewood

This one i have the BIGGEST crush on. So we see this 2 tier station here? This is because this station is going to be adjacent to an overpass. They've done a lot of work to add murals to this spaces

So spaces like this ^^ but in place of those ANNOYING stairs to get up to this second road there will be a station with an elevator and heated seating and bike parking. Basically letting 2 separated communities having much easier access to each other and exteneral transit as well as the bike paths (seen in the lower photo as well)

Based on estimations they should be done the stations by the end of the summer and then additionally the train should be up and running by 2026 at latest!! Aaaah!!

[rabbitcruiser]

Food and Drinks, Calgary

Joey Restaurant Group (stylized as JOEY) is a Western Canadian premium casual restaurant chain based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The Joey chain of restaurants was founded by Jeff Fuller. Joey restaurants are a part of a chain of family-owned restaurants, expanding throughout North America. The restaurant focuses on Asian, American, Mediterranean and other global dishes. The company operates 27 full-service restaurants in Canada and the United States. All Joey restaurants feature a bar area and serve alcoholic beverages.

Local Public Eatery

The Joey Restaurant Group is an umbrella company to LOCAL Public Eatery. Local is a casual take with bar food and cheaper menu options.

Earls

Restaurant founder, Leroy Earl "Bus" Fuller, died at the age of 90. Earls has since been operated by Jeff Fuller's brother, Stan Fuller, who also owns a large share of the Cactus Club chain, a competitor to the restaurant.

Source: Wikipedia

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 6.2

Holidays

Acacia Day (French Republic)

American Indian Citizenship Day

Autograph Day

Children’s Day (North Korea)

Civil Aviation Day (Azerbaijan)

Coastal Cleanup Day (Russia)

Contango Day

Coronation Day (UK)

Decoration Day (Canada)

Donati’s Comet Day

Elfreth's Alley Day (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Emancipation Day (Tonga)

Father’s Day (Lithuania)

Festa della Repubblica (Italy)

Festival of Light and Dark Spots

Festival of Utter Confusion

Happy Neil Diamond Day

Hristo Botev Day (Bulgaria)

I Love My Dentist Day

Important People Day

International Sex Workers Day (a.k.a. International Whore's Day)

International Volkswagen Bus Day

Isabel Province Day (Solomon Islands)

Lesbian Pride Day

Local Industry Workers Day (Ukraine)

Lou Gehrig Day

Mother Earth's Day

National Bubba Day

National First Ladies Day

National Greyhound Day

National Janice Day

National Leave the Office Early Day [6.2 or Closest Weekday]

Pimpernel Flower Day

retail, Consumer Services and Public Utility Company Employees Day (Tajikistan)

Sir Randol Fawkes Day (Bahamas)

602 Day

Social Forestry Day (Bhutan)

Telangana Day (India)

Textile Industry Workers’ Day (Turkmenistan)

3-Ring Circus Day

Water Resource Management Employees Day (Ukraine)

World Day to Fight Myasthenia Gravis

World Eating Disorder Action Day

World Mind Map Day

World Peatlands Day

Yell "Fudge" at the Cobras in North America Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

International Fish & Chips Day (Australia)

National Rocky Road Ice Cream Day

National Rotisserie Chicken Day

Vanilla Coke Day

Velveeta Day

Independence & Related Days

Aenderia (Declared; 2018) [unrecognized]

Republic Day (Italy)

Telangana State Formation Day (India)

1st Sunday in June

Armed Forces Day (Canada) [1st Sunday]

Children's Awareness Memorial Day [1st Sunday]

Day of the Rice God (Japan) [1st Sunday]

Father’s Day (Haiti, Switzerland) [1st Sunday]

Fisherman’s Day (Iceland) [1st Sunday]

German World Heritage Day [1st Sunday]

International Mother's Peace Day [1st Sunday]

National Animal Rights Day [1st Sunday]

National Cancer Survivors Day [1st Sunday]

National Child’s Day [1st Sunday]

National Frozen Yogurt Day [1st Sunday]

National Godparent’s Day [1st Sunday]

Philippine Independence Day Parade (New York City) [1st Sunday]

Sjómannadagurinn (Seamen’s Day; Iceland) [1st Sunday]

World Breakfast Day (Turkey) [1st Sunday]

World Meditation Day [1st Sunday of Every Month]

World Naturist Day [1st Sunday]

Weekly Holidays beginning June 2 (1st Full Week)

America The Beautiful Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Bedbug Awareness Week (thru 6.8)

Black Single Parents Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Community Health Improvement Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

End Mountain Top Removal Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Healthcare Executives Appreciation Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Boating Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Business Etiquette Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Commuter Challenge (thru 6.8) [During Canadian Environment Week]

National Fishing Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Flag Football Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Garden Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Headache Awareness Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Pet Appreciation Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Teacher Thank You Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Festivals Beginning June 2, 2024

Asheville Springfest (Asheville, South Carolina)

Baby Jumping Festival [a.k.a. El Colacho] (Castrillo de Murcia, Spain)

Calgary Lilac Festival [a.k.a. 4th Street Lilac Festival] (Calgary, Canada)

Cape May Restaurant Week (Cape May, New Jersey) [thru 6.9]

Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival (Camarillo, California)

Culinary Coast Restaurant Week (Various locations, Delaware) [thru 6.7]

Heritage Fire (Savannah, Georgia)

Paso Pinot & Paella Festival (Templeton, California)

Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off (Tustin, California)

Feast Days

Ahudemmeh (Syriac Orthodox Church)

Alexander (Christian; Martyr)

Binkham Tamino McDoyal III (Muppetism)

Blandina (Christian; Martyr)

Buddha Day (Indonesia; Buddhism)

Elmo (Christian; Saint)

Émile Munier (Artology)

Erasmus (Christian; Saint)

Eugene I, Pope (Christian; Saint)

Felix of Nicosia (Christian; Saint)

Festival of Light and Dark Spots (Shamanism)

Finneces (Celtic Book of Days)

Frank Runacres (Artology)

St. Gregory the Great (Positivist; Saint)

Isaac van Ostade (Artology)

Juno Regina’s Day: Queenship Rite (Pagan)

Laugh Like a Bad Guy Day (Pastafarian)

Marcellinus and Peter (Christian; Martyrs)

Marquis de Sade Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

The Melissae (Ancient Crete; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Mindfulness Day (Zen Buddhism)

Nicholas the Pilgrim (Christian; Saint)

Paul-Albert Besnard (Artology)

Pothinus, Bishop of Lyon, and Attalus, Blandina, and other martyrs of Lyon (Christian; Saint)

Shapatu of Ishtar (Everyday Wicca)

Solemnity of the Body & Blood of Christ (Roman Catholic)

Stephen of Sweden (Christian; Martyr)

Thomas Hardy (Writerism)

Vesak Day (Buddha Day; Singapore)

Yell “Fudge” at North American Cobras Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Taian (大安 Japan) [Lucky all day.]

Premieres

The Betty Boop Mystery (Animated Film; 1989)

Churchill (Film; 2017)

Cooked, by Michael Pollan (Food Book; 2013)

Corvette Summer (Film; 1978)

Darkness on the Edge of Town, by Bruce Springsteen (Album; 1978)

Dead Poets Society (Film; 1989)

Deliverance, by James Dickey (Novel; 1970)

De-Lovely (Film; 2004)

Excellent Women, by Barbara Pym (Novel; 1952)

Hells Heels (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1930)

If I Die in a Combat Zone, Box Me Up and Ship Me Home, by Tim O'Brien (Memoir; 1972)

Isabeau (Lady Godiva), by Pietro Mascagni (Opera; 1911)

The Light Fantastic, by Terry Pratchet (Novel; 1986) [Discworld #2]

Obscured by Clouds, by Pink Floyd (Album; 1972)

Oil!, by Upton Sinclair (Novel; 1926)

The Phantom Tollbooth, by Norton Juster (Novel; 1961)

The Prize Guest (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1939)

Room and Bird (WB MM Cartoon; 1951)

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Animated Film; 2023)

Storms of Life, by Randy Travis (Album; 1986)

The Unexpected Pest (WB MM Cartoon; 1956)

The Wire (TV Series; 2002)

Whitney, by Whitney Houston (Album; 1987)

Wonder Woman (Film; 2017)

Today’s Name Days

Armin, Erasmus, Marcel, Petrus (Austria)

Erazmo, Eugen, Marcelin, Petar (Croatia)

Jarmil, Jarmila (Czech Republic)

Marcellinus (Denmark)

Veevi, Viiva, Viive, Viivi, Viivia, Viivika, Vivian (Estonia)

Venla (Finland)

Blandine (France)

Armin, Blandine, Erasmus (Germany)

Marinos, Nikiforos (Greece)

Anita, Kármen (Hungary)

Emilia, Erasmo, Marcellino (Italy)

Emma, Emmija (Latvia)

Auksė, Ąžuolas, Erazmas, Eugenijus (Lithuania)

Runa, Runar, Rune (Norway)

Efrem, Erazm, Eugeniusz, Marcelin, Maria, Marianna, Mikołaj, Nicefor, Piotr, Racisław (Poland)

Ioan (România)

Oxana, Xénia (Slovakia)

Eugenio, Marcelino, Pedro (Spain)

Roger, Rutger (Sweden)

Elma, Elmer, Elmo, Elmore, Erasmo (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 154 of 2024; 212 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 7 of week 22 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Huath (Hawthorn) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 4 (Ji-Si), Day 26 (Ding-You)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 25 Iyar 5784

Islamic: 25 Dhu al-Qada 1445

J Cal: 4 Blue; Foursday [4 of 30]

Julian: 20 May 2024

Moon:18%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 13 St. Paul (6th Month) [St. Gregory the Great]

Runic Half Month: Odal (Home, Possession) [Day 9 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 76 of 92)

Week: 1st Full Week of June

Zodiac: Gemini (Day 13 of 31)

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

Tonight (Apr 26), I’ll be in Burbank, signing Red Team Blues at Dark Delicacies at 6PM.

_,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,_

#20yrsago Spam turns 25 https://www.templetons.com/brad/spam/spam25.html

#10yrsago Suburban Express bus-line sends bullying, cowardly legal threat to Reddit, discovers Streisand Effect https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2013/04/express-to-internet-hate-bus-company-threatens-redditor-with-lawsuit/

#10yrsago Congress fixes “sequester” air traffic control disaster just in time for their own flights home https://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2013/0426/Before-members-rush-for-airports-Congress-ends-sequester-flight-delays

#5yrsago Thinking through the “What should we do about Facebook?” question https://memex.craphound.com/2018/04/27/thinking-through-the-what-should-we-do-about-facebook-question/

#5yrsago Scott Pruitt can’t answer a yes-or-no question to save his life (or even his ass) https://www.theverge.com/2018/4/26/17286684/scott-pruitt-hearings-epa-congress-ethics-scandals-questions

#1yrago Laura Jean McKay’s “The Animals in That Country”: A brilliant debut novel of too much understanding https://pluralistic.net/2022/04/27/im-a-backdoor-man/#doolittle

#1yrago How police backdoors for online services let sextortionists target children https://pluralistic.net/2022/04/27/im-a-backdoor-man/#pedo-backdoor

_,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,__,.-'~'-.,_

Catch me on tour with Red Team Blues in Burbank, Mountain View, Berkeley, San Francisco, Portland, Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, DC, Gaithersburg, Oxford, Hay, Manchester, Nottingham, London, and Berlin!

[nwtmaxx2210]

Traveling with the Canada Bus: Affordable and Comfortable Bus Journeys in Alberta

Looking for convenient, low-cost travel options between Calgary and Edmonton or other locations in Alberta? The Canada Bus, a Calgary-based bus company, offers an exceptional online booking experience for passengers seeking reliable transportation across the province. Whether you're planning a trip for business or leisure, The Canada Bus ensures that your journey is comfortable, affordable, and hassle-free. Let's explore why The Canada Bus is your best choice for traveling between Alberta's major cities.

Affordable Bus Tickets from Calgary to Edmonton

Traveling from Calgary to Edmonton has never been easier or more affordable. At The Canada Bus, we offer low-cost bus tickets that help you save money while enjoying a comfortable ride. Our online booking platform allows you to browse and compare fares with just a few clicks, ensuring you always get the best deal on your trip. With flexible schedules and a range of departure times, traveling between these two major Alberta cities is now both convenient and budget-friendly.

Whether you're a student commuting to university or a traveler looking to explore Alberta's capital, our buses from Calgary to Edmonton provide a smooth, reliable journey. We pride ourselves on punctuality and high-quality service, ensuring that you reach your destination on time, every time.   bus ticket calgary to Edmonton

Easy Travel from Calgary to Red Deer and Beyond   

For those looking to explore Alberta’s vibrant cities and scenic landscapes, The Canada Bus offers services beyond just the Calgary-Edmonton route. We also provide buses from Calgary to Red Deer and vice versa. Red Deer, located halfway between Calgary and Edmonton, is a popular destination for travelers. Whether you’re visiting for business, family, or leisure, our buses from Red Deer to Calgary make it easy to travel between these two cities without the stress of driving. 

Our Red Deer routes are designed with the passenger in mind, offering multiple departure and arrival times to fit any schedule. Plus, with our easy-to-use booking platform, securing your seat has never been more convenient.  

Why Choose The Canada Bus for Your Alberta Travel?

At The Canada Bus, we believe that traveling should be more than just getting from one place to another. We’re committed to providing our passengers with a seamless travel experience from the moment they book their tickets to the time they arrive at their destination.

Here are just a few reasons why The Canada Bus stands out from other travel options in Alberta: buses from red deer to edmonton

Affordable Prices: We offer some of the lowest fares for buses from Calgary to Edmonton, Red Deer, and other cities in Alberta, making travel accessible to everyone.

Comfortable Rides: Our buses are equipped with comfortable seating, ample legroom, and modern amenities to ensure you enjoy your journey.

Safety and Security: Your safety is our top priority. We maintain strict safety protocols, and our buses are regularly serviced to ensure smooth and safe travel.

User-Friendly Booking: Our website, TheCanadaBus.com, is designed to provide a seamless booking experience. You can quickly compare routes, fares, and schedules to find the best travel option for your needs.

Excellent Customer Service: We pride ourselves on offering top-notch customer service at every stage of your journey. Whether you need assistance with booking, have questions during your trip, or need help after your ride, our support team is here to help.

Flexible Travel Options: With multiple routes and flexible departure times, we cater to a variety of travel needs. Whether you're planning a day trip or a long-distance journey, The Canada Bus has you covered.

How to Book Your Trip with The Canada Bus

Booking your trip is easy and fast through our website. Simply visit TheCanadaBus.com, select your route, and choose from our available buses from Calgary to Edmonton, Red Deer, or other destinations in Alberta. Our platform allows you to complete your booking in just a few steps, giving you access to the latest offers and special deals.

If you prefer, you can also book your tickets offline through our customer support team, who will assist you with any questions or special requests. We understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to booking travel, and we’re committed to making the process as convenient as possible.

Buses from Calgary to Edmonton

Experience Alberta with The Canada Bus

Whether you’re traveling for work, visiting family, or exploring Alberta’s stunning landscapes, The Canada Bus is your best choice for affordable, comfortable, and reliable travel. Our extensive network of routes, including buses from Calgary to Edmonton and Calgary to Red Deer, ensures that you can easily reach your destination without breaking the bank.

Book your next trip with us today and experience the ease and convenience of traveling with The Canada Bus!    

[gocalgaryshuttlesservices]

Looking for a comfortable, hassle-free ride for your friends, family, or colleagues? GoCalgary Shuttle offers extreme comfort at the best market price!

[charter-bus-canada]

Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Coach Bus in Calgary

If you are planning a group trip, special event, or corporate outing in Calgary, renting a coach bus can be an excellent solution. Coach buses are a comfortable, reliable, and convenient way to transport large groups of people. Whether you're heading to a concert, sporting event, or a corporate conference, a charter bus in Calgary provides a stress-free way to travel. In this blog, we will answer common questions about coach bus rentals and provide useful information to help you plan your trip.

What is a Coach Bus?

A coach bus is a large, comfortable vehicle designed for long-distance travel. These buses are typically equipped with plush seating, air conditioning, restrooms, entertainment options, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. They are perfect for group travel as they offer ample space, comfort, and convenience for all passengers. Coach buses are often used for school trips, group tours, corporate events, weddings, and more.

Unlike regular city buses, which are intended for short trips, coach buses are designed for longer journeys and provide a higher level of comfort. When renting a coach bus in Calgary, you can expect a professional driver to ensure a smooth and safe ride.

How Many Seats on a Coach Bus?

The number of seats on a coach bus can vary depending on the model and the rental company. Most standard coach buses have between 40 to 60 seats, but larger models can accommodate even more passengers. If you're planning a large event or need extra space, there are options for buses with seating capacities up to 80 or more.

When booking your rental, make sure to check the number of seats on the bus to ensure it fits your group size comfortably. It’s important to consider how much luggage or equipment you may have in addition to the number of passengers, as this can affect the space available on the bus.

How Much Does a Coach Bus Cost?

The cost of renting a coach bus in Calgary can vary based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the distance of your trip, the duration of the rental, and the time of year. On average, the price for renting a coach bus can range from $800 to $1,500 for a day trip. For longer journeys or multi-day rentals, the cost can increase significantly.

Here are a few factors that may influence the cost of your coach bus rental:

Distance: Longer trips will generally cost more due to the additional fuel and driver time.

Duration: If you require the bus for more than one day, expect higher costs.

Season: Rates may be higher during peak travel seasons, such as summer or holidays.

Additional Features: Special features, such as Wi-Fi, luxury seating, or onboard refreshments, can also impact the cost.

It’s always a good idea to get a quote from a reliable charter bus Calgary company to better understand the pricing for your specific needs.

Why Rent a Coach Bus in Calgary?

Renting a coach bus in Calgary has many benefits, especially for large groups. Here are some reasons why renting a coach bus is a great option:

1. Comfortable Travel

Coach buses are designed for comfort, with spacious seating, climate control, and amenities that make long journeys more enjoyable. Passengers can relax, stretch out, and enjoy the ride without worrying about navigating traffic or finding parking.

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How to Rent a Coach Bus in Calgary?

Renting a coach bus in Calgary is a simple process, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure availability and get the best deal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you book your coach bus rental:

1. Determine Your Needs

Before you start looking for a rental, consider the size of your group, the destinations, and the length of your trip. This will help you choose the right type of bus and avoid any surprises during your journey. Be sure to check how many seats on a coach bus will accommodate your group.

2. Find a Reputable Charter Bus Calgary Company

Look for a reliable charter bus Calgary company with a good reputation for customer service and well-maintained buses. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have rented coach buses before.

3. Request a Quote

Once you’ve chosen a company, reach out to request a quote for your trip. Be sure to provide details like your travel dates, the number of passengers, and any special requirements. This will help the company give you an accurate price.

4. Book in Advance

Coach buses can book up quickly, especially during busy seasons. To ensure you get the bus you need, it’s recommended to book your rental well in advance. Most companies allow you to reserve a bus with a deposit, with the final payment due closer to the trip date.

5. Confirm the Details

Before your trip, confirm the bus rental details with the company. This includes the pickup and drop-off locations, the driver’s contact information, and any special requests you’ve made.

Benefits of Hiring a Charter Bus Calgary

Hiring a charter bus Calgary can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some additional benefits to consider:

Flexible Itinerary: Charter buses offer the flexibility to create your own schedule and make unscheduled stops along the way.

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Whether it’s a corporate outing, wedding, or school trip, renting a coach bus can elevate your special occasion. Coach buses provide a seamless transportation experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event rather than worrying about how to get there. Plus, many charter buses come with extra amenities that make the ride more enjoyable, such as luxury seating, entertainment systems, and Wi-Fi.

Contact Us at GOCOACHCHARTERS

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[readmypost]

Traveling with the Canada Bus: Affordable and Comfortable Bus Journeys in Alberta

Looking for convenient, low-cost travel options between Calgary and Edmonton or other locations in Alberta? The Canada Bus, a Calgary-based bus company, offers an exceptional online booking experience for passengers seeking reliable transportation across the province. Whether you're planning a trip for business or leisure, The Canada Bus ensures that your journey is comfortable, affordable, and hassle-free. Let's explore why The Canada Bus is your best choice for traveling between Alberta's major cities.

Affordable Bus Tickets from Calgary to Edmonton

Traveling from Calgary to Edmonton has never been easier or more affordable. At The Canada Bus, we offer low-cost bus tickets that help you save money while enjoying a comfortable ride. Our online booking platform allows you to browse and compare fares with just a few clicks, ensuring you always get the best deal on your trip. With flexible schedules and a range of departure times, traveling between these two major Alberta cities is now both convenient and budget-friendly.

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For those looking to explore Alberta’s vibrant cities and scenic landscapes, The Canada Bus offers services beyond just the Calgary-Edmonton route. We also provide buses from Calgary to Red Deer and vice versa. Red Deer, located halfway between Calgary and Edmonton, is a popular destination for travelers. Whether you’re visiting for business, family, or leisure, our buses from Red Deer to Calgary make it easy to travel between these two cities without the stress of driving.

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[brookston]

Holidays 6.2

Holidays

Acacia Day (French Republic)

American Indian Citizenship Day

Autograph Day

Children’s Day (North Korea)

Civil Aviation Day (Azerbaijan)

Coastal Cleanup Day (Russia)

Contango Day

Coronation Day (UK)

Decoration Day (Canada)

Donati’s Comet Day

Elfreth's Alley Day (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Emancipation Day (Tonga)

Father’s Day (Lithuania)

Festa della Repubblica (Italy)

Festival of Light and Dark Spots

Festival of Utter Confusion

Happy Neil Diamond Day

Hristo Botev Day (Bulgaria)

I Love My Dentist Day

Important People Day

International Sex Workers Day (a.k.a. International Whore's Day)

International Volkswagen Bus Day

Isabel Province Day (Solomon Islands)

Lesbian Pride Day

Local Industry Workers Day (Ukraine)

Lou Gehrig Day

Mother Earth's Day

National Bubba Day

National First Ladies Day

National Greyhound Day

National Janice Day

National Leave the Office Early Day [6.2 or Closest Weekday]

Pimpernel Flower Day

retail, Consumer Services and Public Utility Company Employees Day (Tajikistan)

Sir Randol Fawkes Day (Bahamas)

602 Day

Social Forestry Day (Bhutan)

Telangana Day (India)

Textile Industry Workers’ Day (Turkmenistan)

3-Ring Circus Day

Water Resource Management Employees Day (Ukraine)

World Day to Fight Myasthenia Gravis

World Eating Disorder Action Day

World Mind Map Day

World Peatlands Day

Yell "Fudge" at the Cobras in North America Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

International Fish & Chips Day (Australia)

National Rocky Road Ice Cream Day

National Rotisserie Chicken Day

Vanilla Coke Day

Velveeta Day

Independence & Related Days

Aenderia (Declared; 2018) [unrecognized]

Republic Day (Italy)

Telangana State Formation Day (India)

1st Sunday in June

Armed Forces Day (Canada) [1st Sunday]

Children's Awareness Memorial Day [1st Sunday]

Day of the Rice God (Japan) [1st Sunday]

Father’s Day (Haiti, Switzerland) [1st Sunday]

Fisherman’s Day (Iceland) [1st Sunday]

German World Heritage Day [1st Sunday]

International Mother's Peace Day [1st Sunday]

National Animal Rights Day [1st Sunday]

National Cancer Survivors Day [1st Sunday]

National Child’s Day [1st Sunday]

National Frozen Yogurt Day [1st Sunday]

National Godparent’s Day [1st Sunday]

Philippine Independence Day Parade (New York City) [1st Sunday]

Sjómannadagurinn (Seamen’s Day; Iceland) [1st Sunday]

World Breakfast Day (Turkey) [1st Sunday]

World Meditation Day [1st Sunday of Every Month]

World Naturist Day [1st Sunday]

Weekly Holidays beginning June 2 (1st Full Week)

America The Beautiful Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Bedbug Awareness Week (thru 6.8)

Black Single Parents Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Community Health Improvement Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

End Mountain Top Removal Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Healthcare Executives Appreciation Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Boating Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Business Etiquette Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Commuter Challenge (thru 6.8) [During Canadian Environment Week]

National Fishing Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Flag Football Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Garden Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

National Headache Awareness Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Pet Appreciation Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Teacher Thank You Week (thru 6.8) [1st Full Week]

Festivals Beginning June 2, 2024

Asheville Springfest (Asheville, South Carolina)

Baby Jumping Festival [a.k.a. El Colacho] (Castrillo de Murcia, Spain)

Calgary Lilac Festival [a.k.a. 4th Street Lilac Festival] (Calgary, Canada)

Cape May Restaurant Week (Cape May, New Jersey) [thru 6.9]

Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival (Camarillo, California)

Culinary Coast Restaurant Week (Various locations, Delaware) [thru 6.7]

Heritage Fire (Savannah, Georgia)

Paso Pinot & Paella Festival (Templeton, California)

Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off (Tustin, California)

Feast Days

Ahudemmeh (Syriac Orthodox Church)

Alexander (Christian; Martyr)

Binkham Tamino McDoyal III (Muppetism)

Blandina (Christian; Martyr)

Buddha Day (Indonesia; Buddhism)

Elmo (Christian; Saint)

Émile Munier (Artology)

Erasmus (Christian; Saint)

Eugene I, Pope (Christian; Saint)

Felix of Nicosia (Christian; Saint)

Festival of Light and Dark Spots (Shamanism)

Finneces (Celtic Book of Days)

Frank Runacres (Artology)

St. Gregory the Great (Positivist; Saint)

Isaac van Ostade (Artology)

Juno Regina’s Day: Queenship Rite (Pagan)

Laugh Like a Bad Guy Day (Pastafarian)

Marcellinus and Peter (Christian; Martyrs)

Marquis de Sade Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

The Melissae (Ancient Crete; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Mindfulness Day (Zen Buddhism)

Nicholas the Pilgrim (Christian; Saint)

Paul-Albert Besnard (Artology)

Pothinus, Bishop of Lyon, and Attalus, Blandina, and other martyrs of Lyon (Christian; Saint)

Shapatu of Ishtar (Everyday Wicca)

Solemnity of the Body & Blood of Christ (Roman Catholic)

Stephen of Sweden (Christian; Martyr)

Thomas Hardy (Writerism)

Vesak Day (Buddha Day; Singapore)

Yell “Fudge” at North American Cobras Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Taian (大安 Japan) [Lucky all day.]

Premieres

The Betty Boop Mystery (Animated Film; 1989)

Churchill (Film; 2017)

Cooked, by Michael Pollan (Food Book; 2013)

Corvette Summer (Film; 1978)

Darkness on the Edge of Town, by Bruce Springsteen (Album; 1978)

Dead Poets Society (Film; 1989)

Deliverance, by James Dickey (Novel; 1970)

De-Lovely (Film; 2004)

Excellent Women, by Barbara Pym (Novel; 1952)

Hells Heels (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1930)

If I Die in a Combat Zone, Box Me Up and Ship Me Home, by Tim O'Brien (Memoir; 1972)

Isabeau (Lady Godiva), by Pietro Mascagni (Opera; 1911)

The Light Fantastic, by Terry Pratchet (Novel; 1986) [Discworld #2]

Obscured by Clouds, by Pink Floyd (Album; 1972)

Oil!, by Upton Sinclair (Novel; 1926)

The Phantom Tollbooth, by Norton Juster (Novel; 1961)

The Prize Guest (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1939)

Room and Bird (WB MM Cartoon; 1951)

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Animated Film; 2023)

Storms of Life, by Randy Travis (Album; 1986)

The Unexpected Pest (WB MM Cartoon; 1956)

The Wire (TV Series; 2002)

Whitney, by Whitney Houston (Album; 1987)

Wonder Woman (Film; 2017)

Today’s Name Days

Armin, Erasmus, Marcel, Petrus (Austria)

Erazmo, Eugen, Marcelin, Petar (Croatia)

Jarmil, Jarmila (Czech Republic)

Marcellinus (Denmark)

Veevi, Viiva, Viive, Viivi, Viivia, Viivika, Vivian (Estonia)

Venla (Finland)

Blandine (France)

Armin, Blandine, Erasmus (Germany)

Marinos, Nikiforos (Greece)

Anita, Kármen (Hungary)

Emilia, Erasmo, Marcellino (Italy)

Emma, Emmija (Latvia)

Auksė, Ąžuolas, Erazmas, Eugenijus (Lithuania)

Runa, Runar, Rune (Norway)

Efrem, Erazm, Eugeniusz, Marcelin, Maria, Marianna, Mikołaj, Nicefor, Piotr, Racisław (Poland)

Ioan (România)

Oxana, Xénia (Slovakia)

Eugenio, Marcelino, Pedro (Spain)

Roger, Rutger (Sweden)

Elma, Elmer, Elmo, Elmore, Erasmo (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 154 of 2024; 212 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 7 of week 22 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Huath (Hawthorn) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 4 (Ji-Si), Day 26 (Ding-You)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 25 Iyar 5784

Islamic: 25 Dhu al-Qada 1445

J Cal: 4 Blue; Foursday [4 of 30]

Julian: 20 May 2024

Moon:18%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 13 St. Paul (6th Month) [St. Gregory the Great]

Runic Half Month: Odal (Home, Possession) [Day 9 of 15]

Season: Spring (Day 76 of 92)

Week: 1st Full Week of June

Zodiac: Gemini (Day 13 of 31)

[sinnabum45]

More Links!

Compiled posts on how you can help Palestine! (Check the notes of this post for updates)

These are all of the posts that I've seen so far. Please let me know if posts you've seen needs to be added- I'll keep adding as I find them, too!

[smokinholsters]

The Lucky Horseshoes - A Heartland Season 16 AU - Chapter 10

Chapter 10

“Good morning Amy, good morning Lyndy, you’re both up early I see.”

“Good morning Lisa/Grandma.” They said together making Lyndy giggle as she climbed into her seat.

Lisa pushed a mug of coffee in front of Amy before turning to Lyndy “what would you like for breakfast Lyndy ?”

“Bagel and cream cheese please.”

“Half a bagel Lisa, she’ll never finish a whole one.” Amy added getting up and grabbing the milk and the cream cheese for Lyndy and a yogurt for herself from the fridge and half a bagel from the freezer for Lyndy which she handed to Lisa who popped it into the toaster.

“What are your plans for today Amy ?” Lisa said putting cream cheese on the now lightly toasted bagel.

“Early chores, obviously, get Lyndy off to school, shower and meet Cass.”

“Oh, that sounds nice.”

“Clothes shopping, not my strong suit.”

“I hear Cass is pretty good at shopping, sounds like you’re in good company.” Lisa said laughing sitting with her own coffee “what are you shopping for ?”

“Dress and shoes for a dinner date.”

Lisa smiled “Oh Cass is definitely a good choice. Where are you heading ?”

“Chinook and around, lunch first and then shopping.”

“Oh, you’re heading into Calgary. Where’s dinner ?”

“The Lake House, I hear it’s nice.”

“Never been but I do hear it’s lovely. So what’s on the menu ?”

“The works; dress, hose and shoes.”

“Done Momma !!”

“Then let’s get you washed up.”

“How about you get started in the barn and I get Lyndy here ready for school ?”

“You sure ? Lyndy would that be Ok ?”

“I’m sure. Lyndy, how about you ?” Lisa asked.

Lyndy smiled and put her thumb up before hopping off her chair and putting out her hand for Lisa to take.

Amy laughed “Guess that’s a yes, thank you both. I’ll be back to walk her to the bus Lisa, she can read or play in her room once she’s dressed.”

She started early so she was almost done when she took a break back to the house. 

“Thanks for doing this Lisa.”

“Really not a problem honey and try to have a good time shopping. Think of the reason for your outing.” She said as Amy helped Lyndy with her backpack.

“The end game, got it.” Amy said heading out the door.

Since most anything is easier to hand off to a valet than a large pickup they decided that Cass would pick up Amy for the ride into Calgary. She had forgotten that Cass had just leased a new BMW SUV and smiled when it pulled down the road to the house. Cass called her for courage to sign the papers even though with the new partnership in the clinic and Caleb’s partnership in the rodeo school she assured Amy that they could afford it and keep saving for a small ranch.

“Nice wheels !!” Amy said opening the passenger side door and leaning over for a quick kiss and hug.

“Thank you, thank you, I like it.”

“And Caleb ?”

“Not so much which is fine.”

“Carson ?”

“He’s more adorable by the day and loves nursery school. Lyndy ?”

“The same really, she loves school and horses. Caleb ?”

“Ok well,  before Caleb we’re talking about Finn. Goosebumps ?”

Amy smiled “it’s pretty bad Cass.”

“Doesn’t sound bad to me girl, tell me about Sunday.”

“Pull in for coffee Cass.” Amy said as they passed a sign for an upcoming Tim Horton’s pull off.

“No arguments here.” Cass said as she turned on her turning signal and Amy began her retelling of their Sunday picnic and dinner.

Amy told her about their morning, the long ride up to the river and the picnic. Cass stopped her a few times with questions or comments about the story especially Finn’s interactions with Lyndy.

“Sounds like a pretty idyllic an afternoon if you ask me.”

“It was a really nice day Cass, no complaints.”

“And the dinner ?”

The had made it into Calgary by this point and Cass pulled into the mall and rather than pull up to a valet Amy pointed out a fairly convenient parking spot that was opening up for them to use. The plan was to stop for a bite to eat first so that Amy’s dress could be tried on after eating just in case.

“Trust me Amy, you want the dress to be perfect on a full stomach otherwise you’ll feel fat which you are definitely not.”

“I trust you Cass.”

“As you should, now how was your family with all this ?”

They stopped for dim sum as neither Amy nor Cass were famished and as they ordered, waited and ate Amy continued on with her story. Again, Cass stopped her for more details as the story progressed.

“How was Jack after Finn said that ?”

“I think maybe those that didn’t get it get it now.”

“You’re Ok with what he said though ?”

“He’s not that guy Cass, he follows his heart so yeah I’m fine with him saying it. Basically he just reinforced what I said before anyway, I’m not 15 Cass, I’m all grown up. Now what’s the deal with Caleb ?”

“Caleb and Sam are buddy buddy.”

“What does that mean exactly ?”

“He was hoping you and Sam would give it a shot.”

“You told him right ?”

“I told him but I think he needs to see. It’s Caleb Amy, I love him like crazy but he’s a little slow on the uptake. How do you feel about burgers Saturday night at KO’s, a couples date ?”

“Fine with me, I’ll check with Finn.” Amy said pulling out her phone and texting.

“7:30 is easier with Carson when he answers.”

Her text came as they paid their check and headed into the mall.

“7:30 at KO’s is fine with him.” She said stopping to text something else.

“What ?”

“He’s asking where I am.”

“And ?”

“I’m telling him I’m clothes shopping with you and that I’ll text when I get home. We’ve both been pretty busy this week so maybe there’s a trail ride in my future.”

“Amy Fleming are you actually enjoying yourself ?”

They were walking again and Amy side glanced a smile at Cass and then playfully bumped her with her shoulder as Cass pointed to the first store she was taking Amy in to shop.

Four stores and at least a dozen try ons later Amy had two maybes when they stopped at the gelato stand for a rest and a snack.

“They both looked great on you and neither needed any alterations Amy.”

“Yeah, I liked them both but if I’m going to splurge I’m really looking to love what I’m wearing.”

“So what’s holding you back on either of those ?”

Amy scooped some gelato into her mouth and was quiet while she savored the rich double chocolate cream and chewed a brownie bit, “I think they’re too short, maybe something past the knee for this.”

“You know, I’ve been to the Lake House twice, once was for a wedding so that doesn’t count but once for a business meeting on a regular night and you may be right, especially for a Saturday night dinner and dancing. Let’s change our plan a little, we need to go higher up the chain.”

“Cass.”

“This is your first real date in how long and I mean dressed to go out for dinner and dancing with a handsome guy ?”

“Years.”

“Then we’re splurging meaning, you’re splurging and then shoes. Come on.”

“Cass.”

“Come on Amy or you’ll blow a possible trail ride and you don’t have to buy unless you’re in love with it.”

“Fair enough.” She answered tossing her empty cup and spoon into the bin near the seating area.

It came in the third store they walked into, 11 dresses and an hour later, Ted Baker. 

Cass was sitting on a small couch when Amy walked out and in front of a three sided mirror.

“Now that’s what I’m talking about.” Cass said standing and walking behind Amy.

“Me too, it’s perfect.”

The dress was navy blue, an embroidered midi dress with a well fitted bodice, an open neckline, tight waist and a tiered skirt with a handkerchief hem. The embroidery was floral with long delicate sleeves and it fit her perfectly. More than that though, the color set off her hair and eyes and she positively glowed in it.

Walking back and forth Cass smiled “well, I think our work here is done.”

“What’s the most you ever spent on a dress ?”

“4300 dollars.”

Amy laughed “not talking about your wedding gown Cass.”

“I don’t know Amy, definitely several hundred. How much is that ?”

“It’s on sale for $385 down from $565.”

“It’s gorgeous Amy and it’s perfect for you and the evening.”

“It’s a lot Cass.”

“You’ll wear it again.”

“Promise ?”

Cass laughed “We’ll make sure of it.”

“Oh man, how do I even justify this.”

“Just think of Finn’s face when he sees you in it.”

Amy sighed and reached down to look at the tag again.

“Hey, stop thinking about it and get changed into your 180 dollar jeans, how many of those you own ?”

“3 pairs but I wear those all the time.”

“Everything is relative Amy. Hold your breath and get your credit card ready, we have more shopping.”

“Ok, shoes.”

“Sheer stockings before shoes, preferably seamed.”

“Will panty hose do ?”

“I take it he won’t be helping you off with that dress ?”

“I don’t think so Cass, we’re not up to advanced dating yet, besides, we have no place to go and I’m pretty sure this dress isn’t coming off in the truck.”

“What’s going on with that ? Have you made a decision ? Leaning one way or another ?”

Once again Amy sighed “I’m leaning towards taking the Director’s job and moving out. Have an opinion ?”

“You already know my opinion Amy, you need a life of your own.”

“And my family ?”

“Don’t be silly, they’ll always be your family just like I’ll always be your best friend and we’re all 10 minutes away.”

Once again Amy gave her friend a side glanced smile and getting a smile in return before she nudged Cass again.

“And we’ll always be there for you, never forget that.” Cass said nudging her back. “You sure you don’t want to try a garter and stockings, only you have to know.”

“How about I promise to wear a new panty and bra set with my panty hose and we’ll move on to garters next time.”

“Deal !!” Cass said smiling and leading Amy into their next stop, La Vie en Rose.

“I can’t believe I just spent 85 dollars on a bra, panties and panty hose.”

“Trust me Amy it’ll make you feel great wearing them, now come on, shoes and home.”

45 minutes later Cass popped the doors on her SUV and Amy carefully laid her dress in the backseat and the shoes and her other bags on the floor before climbing in to the passenger seat.

“I’m going to trip for sure Cass.”

“You’re not going to trip but you should definitely practice in the meantime and no hat Amy.”

“I won’t wear my hat and you’ll lend me a black clutch ?”

“The clutch isn’t a problem, we’ll switch cars that afternoon, you are not going out in that dress in your pick-up.”

“This ?” Amy said pointing around Cass’ brand new BMW.

“I don’t have a garage full of cars Amy.”

“You sure ?”

“I insist.  We’ll swap back the next morning when you tell me everything. Are we stopping for coffee ?”

Amy checked her phone for the time and thought for a second. “Sure, we’ve got time, Lisa’s home for Lyndy.”

“And your trail ride ?”

“Would actually include Lyndy.”

“Didn’t realize that but it makes sense and really good for him that he doesn’t resent it.”

“I think they’ve sort of taken a shine to each other but are tip toeing around it.”

“Cute, so back to the job.” Cass prompted as they pulled over to an on-off road Tim Horton’s.

40 minutes later Cass made the slow turn into the Heartland driveway and under the familiar sign.

“So we’ll meet up Sunday afternoon or Monday and take a look at the space ?”

“Works for me.” Amy said hopping out simultaneously with the front door opening for Lyndy and Lisa who were coming out onto the porch.

Cass also got out and walked over and up the stairs to hug Lisa and then lean over for a big hug fro her goddaughter.

“How’d it go ?” Lisa asked when she stood.

“She’ll live.”

“I will definitely live.” Amy said handing a bag to Lisa and a smaller one to Lyndy.

“Love you Cass.” Amy said putting out her one free hand to hug her friend.

“Love you too, you Ok ?”

“I’m fine, I’ll see you Saturday night.”

Cass smiled at Lisa and waved at Lyndy before turning down the stairs.

“Put the bag on my bed sweetheart.” She said coming through the door and handing Lisa her dress so she could sit and get her boots off.

“Color ?” Lisa asked when Amy stood and put out her hand for the dress.

“Navy, dark navy actually. Come on I’ll show you.”

“Model ?”

“Nope, it’s perfect, but you can look and gently touch.”

She leaned over and carefully undid the zipper pulling apart the garment bag to show Lisa and Lyndy.

Lisa put out her hand to run the back across the fabric. “It’s long.”

“Midi.”

“It’s a beautiful dress Amy, you’ll look amazing.”

“Can I touch momma ? My hands are clean.”

“Touch not grab sweetheart.”

Lyndy reached out her hand and touched the fabric. “It’s soft and I like the flowers.”

“Think I’ll look pretty ?”

She smiled when Lyndy nodded.

Lisa nodded as well and reached down to the tag, then looked at Amy. “Go ahead, tell me I’m not crazy.”

Lisa turned the label and saw the 565 marked down to 385.

“Add shoes and lingerie, I just spent almost 600 dollars on an outfit.”

“You’re not crazy, not by a long shot. Come here, give me a hug and then show me the shoes and whatever. What’s Saturday night by the way ?”

“Ah I was going to ask, Caleb inspection, double date, he’s not happy I never dated Sam so burgers at KO’s so that he can see us together.”

“Sam ? Sam who ?”

“Langston, next door ?”

“What ?”

“I don’t know Lisa, it’s Caleb and they’re friends or drinking buddies, whatever.”

Lisa shrugged “I guess in a way I get it, either way it’s another date and yes, we’d be glad to watch this one.” She said bending over to tickle Lyndy.

“Lyndy, do you have homework ?”

“Two worksheets in her folder Amy.” Lisa answered.

“Go sit down at your desk and get them done and we can go for a ride.”

“Yay, a ride !!” Lyndy cried out running into her room.”

“Come with Lisa ?”

“I wish, I’m waiting on a call about a horse to make a call about a horse.”

“Finn said he might make it.” Amy mumbled checking her phone. “Maybe he got caught up in something.”

“Text him.”

“I texted when I got home, I don’t want to guilt him if he’s busy. Let’s go sit.”

The knock came as Amy was helping Lyndy with her boots which were new and not quite broken in. She glanced up at the screen door and smiled. “You are not dressed for a ride.” She said to Finn who was standing there in his overalls.

“I’m sorry, I ran late. I can help saddle though.”

“Come on in and say hi and Lyndy and I would love some help with our saddles.”

Lisa had come in from the living room and smiled “Hi Finn, how’s everything ?”

“Hi Lisa, everything’s great, you and Jack doing Ok ?”

“We’re good, not riding ?”

Finn laughed “In this outfit I’ll just become a puff of dust every time I came down on a horse. I’m do for a shower.”

“You can help me with Harley.”

Finn smiled “I’d love too.”

Amy fit her hat on and turned. “Let’s get ‘em saddled.”

Lyndy skipped on ahead and Amy reached out for Finn’s hand. Neither said anything when their hands joined. 

Amy watched Lyndy walk over to the meadow where several of the horses were grazing and call out “Harley, Harley.”

She saw the big brown horse turn his head and shake before walking out to look at the fence.

“Come on Harley !!”

“Would you look at that.” Finn whispered as Harley trotted over.

Amy smiled at his reaction and then whistled at the herd. Both Spartan and Shadow turned and Amy called out “Shadow, come on sweetheart.”

A second later the light brown colt darted towards them.

They walked to the gate together which Finn opened and was surprised again when Lyndy just turned and walked towards the barn “come on Harley, you need a saddle” and the horse followed right behind her.

“Wonder where she gets that from ?” Finn said smiling as Shadow walked calmly alongside Amy towards the barn.

Amy clipped Shadow while Finn helped Lyndy clip him and then handed her a brush before grabbing her step stool and swinging it around Harley for her.

“Thank you Finn.”

“You’re very welcome Lyndy”

They worked quietly to brush the horse down before Lyndy ran to grab Harley’s blanket and carried it two handed over to Finn who laid it on Harley’s back before getting his saddle. When he was satisfied that it was snug he handed the reins to Lyndy who walked his out along with Amy who was ready at the same time.

Same as the last couple of times Lyndy held up her arms and Finn lifted her onto her 

Saddle. She smiled at him before bending and hugging Harley’s neck.

Amy watched smiling when Finn walked around Shadow’s rump and Amy moved from his head.

“See you tomorrow ?”

Finn frowned, “I’m swamped all day and scheduled dinner out with Grandpa. How’s your Saturday ?”

“Center all morning then Lyndy has story time at the library.”

“Saturday night then.” He said “Leg up ?”

Amy smiled and leaned over to kiss him gently before he hoisted her up “Text if your plans change.”

“You too and have a good ride.”

“They’re all good Finn, talk later.”

He stood and watched as they pulled away and waved at them both when they turned for a last smile before riding off.

[slapshot-to-the-heart]

Shotgun - m. tkachuk

And here is 8.7k of a road trip with Matthew Tkachuk, which honestly, is the real dream. Let me know what you think of it, reblog (I love looking at tags!!) and pop into my inbox if you’d like!

Wine pairing from someone with zero authority on the subject: a nice brut rosé - crisp, fruity, bubbly. Plus, I like the vibes. 

It all started with a text. What are the chances you can get the week after next off? Matthew had sent. Madison’s brow furrowed. Doubtful, but I can try. Are you going to tell me what this is about? There was a week left in the season before playoffs started, and with the points spread in the Pacific being what it was, the matchups were all but locked in. It took less than a minute to get a response. No :) I’ll let you know once you get an answer. She got approved for the time off two days later. Her phone rang as soon as she texted him the news. “How do you feel about road trips?”

---

Maddy had met Matthew about a little over a year prior, soon after she moved to Calgary from her hometown of Toronto. Having finished her first week of work as a computer programmer, there was nothing Madison wanted more than to let loose and enjoy a few drinks with her friends. She was sharing a two-bedroom with her best friend Emily, who Maddy would swear up and down was the sunniest, warmest, most kind person she’d ever met. Not like Maddy wasn’t a nice person — she was — but where her idea of relaxing meant going out bouldering, or camping, or a last-minute road trip, Emily was more of a homebody. 

But going out meant going out, and so Emily was happily dragged along to a bar downtown; which one, she couldn’t really say. Madison walked up to the bar as soon as they entered, catching the bartender’s eye and ordering a Tom Collins. She tapped her fingers on the counter as she waited, glancing around the room. It was ten o’clock on a Friday night, so it was plenty packed. “What are you getting?” Madison asked Emily curiously. 

She held up her Molson. “I’m a woman of simple tastes. Plus, I didn’t feel like waiting around for the bartender to actually make me a drink,” Emily added dryly. 

Maddy rolled her eyes. “What’s the point of going out to a bar when you’re just going to be drinking something you could get at the liquor store?” Emily stuck her tongue out. The bartender slid Maddy’s glass over, taking her card and swiping it through quickly. “Thank you!” she chirped, whipping around to head over and snag a free table she had seen a few minutes before. 

She never ended up getting to the table. Instead, she ran straight into 6 feet, 2 inches of pure Midwestern beef. “Woah!” Matthew said, steadying her as she watched her glass fall to the floor, thankfully not breaking but absolutely spilling its entire contents over the wood. “You good?” 

Madison nodded, grabbing a rag from the bartender. Matthew followed suit, joining her on the floor. “Got a little on my shoes, but it’ll be fine. They won’t stain.”

Matthew nodded, giving a final wipe before taking her rag and handing both back over the counter. “Did me spilling your drink all over you ruin my chances of getting your name?”

“Madison St. Pierre,” she said, laughing and sticking out a hand for him to shake. 

“Matthew Tkachuk, but—”

Maddy cut him off. “I probably already know that?” Matthew ducked his head sheepishly. “I may be a long-suffering Leafs fan, but I don’t live under a rock.”

He took a sip of his beer, leaning up against the bar. “Not from around here, eh?”

Maddy shook her head. “Just moved a couple weeks ago. I’m from Toronto, moved here for a job. I do computer programming,” she said by way of explanation. 

“A smart girl.”

She tilted her head. “You could say that.”

“Well,” he said, “I feel bad about spilling your drink on you, let me buy you another.” 

Maddy laughed. “If you insist. It’s really the least you could do.”

Matthew nodded at the bartender, ordering her another Tom Collins and putting it on his tab. “You and your friend are more than welcome to join us,” he gestured behind him to where the rest of his group was sitting, “we were playing a drinking game and could use a few more players anyway.”

And that was how Matthew met Maddy. 

---

Day 1 

Ten days later, Madison was hefting her duffel bag into the trunk of her Nissan. It was 7:00 on a Tuesday. Normally on a day off she’d be taking advantage of every possible minute of sleep she could get, but lines to cross the border could be long and they wanted to get to Montana by lunch. She waved goodbye to Emily, hopping in the driver’s seat and starting the engine. Matthew had initially suggested they just get a rental car, since it would save Maddy the 20-hour drive back. But a quick Google search let them know that the chances of finding a company willing to let them drop off a Canadian car in Nevada were slim to none. Plus, Maddy had always liked driving, so it wasn’t really an issue for her. They weren’t going to be alone on the trip; Matthew had invited Elias and Rasmus along. She felt a little bit like a school bus driver, stopping at Elias’s complex to pick him up, then Rasmus’ condo, finally pulling into the underground lot of Matthew’s apartment building. Holding one hand up in greeting, he wheeled his suitcases over to her car.

Maddy unblocked her seatbelt, hopping out to help him. “Why on earth did you need so many bags?” she huffed, turning one on its side and wedging it in between hers and Elias’s. 

He shrugged. “I’ve got a bag for the trip, a bag of actual clothes and workout stuff for the series, and the suit bag.” He hung the offending article on a hook. “Did you think I’d be able to set my vanity aside for a whole four days?”

“I should have known that would be too much to ask.”

Matty threw his head back, laughing. “Anyone ever told you how funny you are, Mads?”

“Once or twice, Ratthew,” she said, slamming the door shut. 

Maddy hopped back in the driver’s seat, jamming the key in the ignition and turning the engine on. “Next stop, boys, is America.”

---

Well technically, the next stop was a gas station off of Highway 2, about twenty minutes from the border. “Wait, wait,” Matthew said, a conspiratorial grin on his face as Madison took the pump out of the gas tank. 

She raised one eyebrow. “What?”

He made grabby hands at her keys. “Let me drive.”

“Why?” Madison asked. “I’ve been driving for like what, two hours? I’m not tired yet.”

“I’m the only American in the car.”

Maddy put the pump back. “And?”

Matthew looked sheepish. “Someone said that the border patrol officers will tell Americans ‘welcome home’ when they’re coming back. It’s never happened to me flying so I wanted to see if it would be different in a car.”

“If it means that much to you?” she said, tossing the keys over the hood of the car. Matthew caught them. Maddy rounded the back of the car before she could see him ducking his head, blushing. 

They arrived at the Piegan/Carway crossing shortly after. With exactly zero cars in front of them, Matthew pulled straight up to the booth. 

“Purpose of your visit?” the officer said, looking into the driver’s side. 

“Three of us play hockey, we’re road tripping down to Las Vegas before our playoff series starts in a few days,” Matty answered easily. 

He nodded. “And how long will you be in the States for?”

It was clear either this man had never watched a series of professional sports in his life, or he was just following a standard script. “Depends?” Matthew said, fully aware of how questionable that sounded. 

Maddy piped up from the passenger seat. “I’m driving the car back, so I’ll be back in eight days.”

“Right,” Matthew nodded, “But this trip to the US, we’ll be back in seven days. We’re flying back on the team plane, so it’s not a land crossing.” He decided to forego mentioning that, barring a sweep, they’d be back again in two weeks.

The poor officer looked bewildered. “Team plane?”

Matty shrugged his shoulders. “We play for the Calgary Flames, the team charters a plane to fly us from Calgary to wherever we’re playing and back. We decided to take the scenic route this time.” 

“Okay,” he said, but Madison still wasn’t convinced he actually understood what Matty was saying. If the border officer thought anything of the American, Canadian, and Swedish passports he was handed, he didn’t say anything. Giving a cursory glance, he handed them back. “Welcome back,” he nodded to Matthew, waving the car through the gate. Matthew pumped his fist.

---

An hour later, Matthew pulled into a dirt parking lot on the edge of Glacier National Park. “WE MADE IT!” he exclaimed, putting the car in park and throwing his hands up. 

“We drove three hours,” Elias said from the back seat. 

“And?” Matty challenged, opening the door. 

Maddy grabbed her backpack, stuffed with sandwiches and snacks that they had gotten on their way in. “If you guys brought hiking boots or good tennis shoes, now’s the time,” she said, lacing up her own boots. “There’s a loop around here that’s a little under four miles long, doesn’t sound like it’s too difficult but there is some elevation climb, so better safe than sorry.” People typically didn’t peg her for it, but Maddy was a very outdoorsy person at heart. She had taken up rock climbing in high school, and was a regular at the bouldering gyms back in Toronto until she moved. She’d found a climbing gym she liked well enough in Calgary, but with Banff just over an hour away from the city, the park had become her go-to for climbing and hiking. Matty had come with her on more than one occasion, and had surprised her with a long weekend camping for her birthday in March. The snow hadn’t all melted yet, and waking up to the powder-dusted fir trees outside of their tent had been one of the most beautiful sights of her life. 

“Everyone’s got a full water bottle?” she asked, tying up her hair. The last thing anyone wanted was to get heatstroke in one of the most remote parts of the park with only one phone that could even connect to an American cell tower. 

The group started off at a leisurely pace, wandering off-trail to check out anything and everything that caught their interest. The edge of the St. Mary Valley served as the perfect backdrop for lunch, Maddy pulling the sandwiches out from her bag and doling them out. “Oh thank God, I’m starving,” Elias said, grabbing his food from Maddy practically before she even had it in her hand. 

“Did you not have breakfast?” she asked incredulously. 

He nodded. “I did, but I’m still hungry. Should have brought snacks.” Off to his side, Matty snickered. 

 Day 2

Elias had volunteered to take over from Matthew to drive through the night, switching off sometime around sunrise with Rasmus. “I 100% have a crick in my neck,” Maddy grimaced, blinking the sleep out of her eyes and checking her phone. 

“Morning, sleepyhead,” Matthew smiled. Maddy groaned, leaning into his side. Almost instinctively, his arm wrapped around her shoulders. He unscrewed the cap of his water bottle, taking a few gulps before setting it back down on the floor of the car, where it promptly rolled away. 

“Who do I have to blow to get a decent cup of coffee around here?” Maddy groaned. Matthew almost choked on his water. He had to get his mind off of the idea of Maddy blowing anything or he was about to have an issue. He pulled out his phone, jumping on Google maps. 

“There’s a little coffee shop a few miles ahead, off of the Spruce Drive exit?” he asked tentatively. 

She yawned. “As long as they sell caffeine, I’m game.” They did indeed sell caffeine, and after inhaling two cappuchinos and a small mountain of pastries later, Maddy hopped back behind the wheel. “You sure bear claws and muffins are on the meal plan, boys?” she asked, a smile playing on the corner of her lips. 

Rasmus waved her off. “It’s not like you’re going to rat us out, are you?” 

She shrugged, wiggling her phone in her hand as she pulled up at a stoplight. “Bold of you to assume I don’t have Coach’s number in my phone.”

Matty plucked her phone from her hand, placing it back by the center console. “Be that as it may, sweet Madison, you neglect to remember that I’m the only one with coverage in the U.S.” He might not strike most people as a particularly sentimental person, but Matthew loved his family, and decided that the extra charge was well worth being able to call his parents and sister whenever he was missing them. 

She stuck her tongue out at Matthew. “You ruin all of my fun, you know that?” All he did was grin. The drive to Mesa Falls wasn’t long at all, they had just finished their food — Matty popping bites of muffin into Madison’s mouth as she drove — when she pulled over to the curb by the sign. Maddy threw the boys’ backpacks to them, pointing to the single bathroom stall in the tiny rest area. “Go change, I’ll use the car.”

“Why can’t we have the car?” Matthew complained.

She looked at him. “Three full-grown men, all over six feet, in one car. I know you see each other’s dicks all day in the locker room, but I’d really rather not have that in my car. Think.”

Matty made an “o” with his mouth. “Gotcha.”

Swim trunks were much easier to get on than a wrap bikini, Madison was finding, and the boys were finished changing well before she was done figuring out her top. She bit her lip, poking her head out of the door. “Matty?” 

He turned around, eyebrows raised. “Yeah?”

“Could you help me tie this?” she asked, gesturing to the halter top. “I think it’s stuck or something.”

Matthew swallowed hard, his eyes widening as he tried to stutter through a sentence. “Uh, yeah. I can do that. For sure,” he said, shuffling over to the car. He gently untwisted the straps, gathering them into a bow at the base of her neck and trying very, very hard to not think about how soft her skin felt underneath his fingers. This was one of his best friends. And best friends weren’t supposed to think about that kind of stuff. Right?

Behind them, Elias and Rasmus shared a glance. They had expected something was going on between them, really ever since the party in November, but this was something new. They had never seen Matthew gone this far for a girl before. And they liked this side of him. 

“Thanks,” she said, squeezing his shoulder before disappearing back into the car to throw on a coverup. “How long is the walk to the actual waterfalls?”

“Not long,” Elias responded. “Ten minutes or so?” It was an easy walk to the falls, which were mercifully empty when they got there. They kicked off their sandals, leaving the bags under a nearby bush. Matthew knew Madison was pretty. She wasn’t a nun and he wasn’t a saint; she had seen him shirtless more times than he could count and he had seen her come out of his guest room in nothing but an oversized t-shirt of his after she stayed the night. His thoughts hadn’t exactly been innocent. But as she pulled her t-shirt over her head, leaving her clad only in that damn red bikini, he was convinced he’d never seen a more gorgeous sight. 

She turned around just as Matthew tore his eyes away, looking mischievously at him. “Last one in?” They sprinted to the water. Matty let her win. 

---

About half of their stops had been planned in advance; the others were pulled from websites or Google suggestions or whatever their waitress’ recommendation was for a local must-see. The Idaho Potato Museum fell into the latter category. Rasmus had floated the idea shortly after they had left Mesa Falls, and seeing as how nobody had anything better to suggest, they ran with it. 

“Free taters for out of staters,” Matthew said, reading off of the pamphlet they had been handed at the welcome desk. 

“Will they give me extra since I’m Canadian?” Madison wondered aloud. “For all intents and purposes they think you live in Missouri, Matty.” The nickname rolled off her tongue so easily, she didn’t even think twice. 

He passed the paper to her, the tips of their fingers barely brushing together, but Matthew could have sworn his heart skipped a beat. “Don’t get greedy, Mads.” They walked down a dimly-lit hallway lined with black-and-white photos. 

“Did you know that the first potatoes grown in the United States were planted in Londonderry, New Hampshire, by Scotch-Irish immigrants?” Elias read off of a placard, his voice sounding like a disinterested radio announcer. 

Maddy shook her head. “I didn’t, thank you so much for imparting on me this most important knowledge, Elias.”

“My pleasure,” he replied. 

“Did you know that you could survive off of a diet of only potatoes and butter?” Rasmus chimed in, reading another sign. 

“Really?” Matthew asked, leaning in to read. He turned to Madison a moment later. “Really, apparently.”

Half an hour of wandering later, Matthew and Madison had stumbled into the “artifacts” portion of the museum. “What kind of artifacts does a potato museum have?” Maddy asked, looking supremely confused. 

Matthew wiggled his eyebrows at her. “Why don’t we see?” For some reason, he decided it would be a good idea to hold his hand out for her. And for some reason, Maddy took it. 

The “artifacts” turned out to consist of some old farm tools, dusty burlap sacks, and the world’s largest potato chip. Elias and Ramsus were on the other side of the museum, leaving Matthew and Madison to drift through alone. “Crisp, actually,” Matthew said, reading the card under the glass case. “Because I guess they’re worried about people stealing it?”

“There’s a difference?”

He shrugged. “Apparently it’s only a chip if it’s a slice of potato. This was made from dehydrated potato flakes, or something like that.” Maddy wasn’t sure if it was the sepia-tinted lighting, or the lingering memory of how Matty’s fingertips burned like fire against her back as he tied her bikini, or if there was something particularly romantic about dehydrated potato flakes, but they were alone in the room and suddenly she was looking at him a little bit differently. Matthew looked at her, gaze soft as his eyes flickered almost imperceptibly down towards her lips. Her lips. His body leaned in, and just as she closed her eyes, waiting for his lips to meet hers, wondering if they were really going to do this in the middle of the Idaho fucking Potato Museum—

“We were wondering where you guys had gone off to!” Elias’s Swedish accent cut through the silence. Matthew threw his head back, silently cursing his teammate’s timing. If Elias and Rasmus realized anything was off, they didn’t say. “The lady at the front said it’s closing in ten minutes, so we thought we should head out and get something to eat.”

Maddy nodded in agreement, her cheeks burning. “Sounds good. I could go for some food.” They made their way back outside, Matthew settling behind the wheel as he steered the car back onto the highway. He tried to shake the almost-kiss from his mind, but the more he tried to forget it, the more the memory stuck. 

Elias looked down at his phone. “Yelp says there’s an Indian place coming up on the left if that sounds good to you guys,” he said, shaking Matthew from his thoughts. 

Maddy scrunched her nose. “All due respect, I don’t trust this town to make good Indian food. Potatoes, burgers, meat, sure. I buy it. But I haven’t seen a single person of color since we left Glacier.” 

“Fair.” 

The burgers were good; nothing to write home about, but Maddy was honestly thrilled to eat something that didn’t come out of a bag. The plan had originally been to drive through the night again to reach Salt Lake City by the early morning, but Maddy made it clear her back didn’t take too well to sleeping in the car, and the others agreed. “Rasmus, mind finding a hotel nearby? Doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just somewhere not too far off of the freeway,” Madison asked. He nodded, pulling out his phone. They had gotten tired of passing around Matthew’s phone anytime they were out of Wifi range, so after a little complaining and one of Maddy’s puppy-dog eye looks, he finally relented and turned his hotspot on. 

“There’s a Holiday Inn up off of the next exit if that sounds good to you guys,” Rasmus said. He tapped his fingers on the steering wheel to the beat of the Post Malone song that Matty had plugged in. They switched the aux every few hours. 

“Yeah, works for me.” Madison hummed her agreement; Matty nodded. Rasmus flicked on the blinkers, gently cruising down the offramp, pulling into the parking lot of the Holiday Inn about half a mile down the road. 

Madison bit the inside of her cheek. “They’re going to have rooms available, yeah?” 

“Mads, it’s May in the middle of nowhere, Idaho. I don’t exactly think they’ve got business lining up out the door.” Matty said, looking at her from the side as they walked into the hotel lobby. 

The whole trip was Matthew’s idea, so he insisted on footing the bill, handing his credit card and license over to the receptionist. Maddy snickered behind her hand. Matthew turned back to look at her, one eyebrow raised questioningly. “Something you’d like to share with the class, Madison?”

“Missouri licenses look weird,” she commented.

“And Alberta’s any better?”

She scrunched her nose. “We have a dinosaur on ours. Beat that.”

“I’ll let you have that one,” Matty said, the corner of his lip twitching as he thanked the receptionist, tucking the cards back into his wallet. She handed over the room keys, Matthew passing two to Rasmus and Elias and one to Maddy. “I had us together, if you don’t mind.” 

Madison shook her head. “Fine with me.” It wasn’t unusual for her to stay over at Matthew’s apartment, either after going out or when their movie nights ran a little long and she woke up to Matty tucking her into the bed in his guest room. She had a toothbrush in his bathroom, a change of clothes in the dresser. She had offered to take her stuff back a few months ago, not wanting any girl he might bring over to get the wrong idea. “It’s fine, don’t worry about it,” he had said when she asked, waving her off. Though, come to think of it, he hadn’t brought any girl home — that she knew about — since sometime around the beginning of the year. 

They waved goodbye to Rasmus and Elias, promising to wake up bright and early to get the first crack at the breakfast buffet when it opened at 7. Matty swiped his card, holding the door open when the light turned green and the knob twisted. “After you, m’lady.” 

“Why thank you, good sir,” Maddy giggled, ducking under his arm into the entryway. She stopped at the end of the hall, eyes flickering into the room. 

Matthew stopped behind her. “What’s up?”

“There’s only one bed.”

His head jerked around the corner, not like he doubted her word or anything, but he needed to see it for himself. There was only one bed. One big bed, one very comfortable-looking bed, but one bed. Matty dropped his bag on the floor. “Uh...D’you want me to call down? I can see if they’ve got another room if that would make you more comfortable.”

Madison pursed her lips for a second before shaking her head. “No, it’s fine. We’re adults, we can share a bed without burning the house down.” It wasn’t like Maddy was lying for Matthew’s sake; she really was fine with it. Maybe a little too fine. But they had slept together — in the innocent sense of the word — before, and everything had turned out okay. His arm draped over her shoulder as she cuddled into his shoulder on a late night, her legs tangled in his when some of his friends from St. Louis were visiting for the weekend and took the guest room. He had offered to take the couch that night, but Maddy didn’t want to relegate him to a night of back cramps and drafty breezes, especially when he had an early practice the next day. Nobody ever made it weird, so it wasn’t weird. 

She took her bundle of clothes into the shower, relishing in the feeling of hot water raining down on her aching muscles. Maddy was loving the trip, genuinely, but being in a car for twelve hours out of the day took something out of a person. Slipping into an old college t-shirt, Madison thought for a moment about putting on a pair of sweats. It wasn’t particularly cold — the opposite, in fact — but she didn’t know if it would make Matthew feel weird if she wasn’t wearing pants. Fuck it, she thought, pulling up her boyshorts. If he had an issue with it, it was his problem. Throwing her hair up in a towel to dry, she turned the doorknob, poking her head out the door. “Shower’s open if you wanted to hop in,” she said.

Matty nodded, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. “I shouldn’t be too long, why don’t you find something for us to watch?” he asked, tossing her the remote. It wasn’t quite nine o’clock, and while she was tired, Maddy knew if she tried to go to sleep she’d wake up well before dawn, and that wasn’t something anyone wanted. Madison climbed up onto the bed, tucking her feet underneath her and grabbed the channel guide. True to his word, Matthew was in and out in under ten minutes, rubbing his hair with a towel as he walked out. Athletic shorts. Shirtless. Maddy couldn’t help but give him the once-over, having to jerk her eyes back up to his face the moment she realized what she was doing. Matthew met her eyes, the ghost of a smirk playing on his face. “I can put a shirt on if you’d like…”

“No! You’re good,” Maddy replied, maybe a little too quickly to avoid suspicion. 

He ducked back into the bathroom, throwing the towel over the shower curtain. “So, what did you settle on?”

She looked back at the TV. “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives?”

Matty jumped onto the bed. “Guy Fieri. What a legend. Awesome. Where’s he going?”

Three and a half episodes later, it was almost eleven, and Madison’s eyes were starting to droop. Sometime midway through the second episode, when Guy was visiting an Asian fusion restaurant in Colorado, her head had drifted onto Matthew’s shoulder, where it had stayed ever since. His arm wrapped loosely around her, Matty brought his hand up to brush away a stray piece of hair that had drifted into her face. “Getting sleepy, Mads?”

She yawned, nodding and trying to push herself up. “‘M looking forward to a good night’s sleep in an actual bed.”

Matthew laughed softly. “Let’s get you in bed, then.” He threw back the comforter, Madison crawling under, and reached over to the nightstand, turning off the lamps and TV. “Give me your phone,” he said. 

“Why?” Maddy asked, her brow furrowing. 

“You always forget to charge it overnight, and I don’t want you to be grumpy when it dies at 10 AM.” She mumbled something that sounded suspiciously like a concession, handing over her iPhone. Matty plugged it in, clambering beneath the sheets. “Sweet dreams, Mads. Good night.”

“Night, Matty.”

 Day 3

 The first thing Madison noticed when she woke up was the warm, unfamiliar weight slung around her waist. It took her a moment to realize that it was Matty’s arm, who hadn’t woken up yet. For some reason that she couldn’t quite identify, or maybe didn’t want to confront quite yet, it wasn’t unwelcome at all, and she savored the last few minutes of physical closeness before he woke up. And he did, wake up, that is. His cheeks reddened as he opened his eyes, pulling his arm away to wipe the sleep out of his eyes. “Sorry about that,” he said sheepishly.

Maddy ducked her head. “Nothing to be sorry about. I didn’t mind.”

Matthew yawned. “What time is it?”

“Uh, just before seven,” she said, rolling over to look at the alarm clock. “I’d love to stay in bed a little longer, but we did promise the boys we’d meet them down at breakfast soon.”

He nodded, making a very concerted effort to not read into her statements any more than he absolutely had to. “Yeah, good idea,” he said, tossing the covers off and walking into the bathroom. “I’ll sit on you if you’re not up by the time I get back out there.” Maddy took the opportunity to change, threading a belt through her jeans and half-tucking a t-shirt. “I like the look,” he said when he walked out, as Maddy was twisting her hair up into a bun. It wasn’t entirely unusual for Matthew to compliment her; she had accompanied him to more than one charity event for the Flames as his date, but she had always been dressed up. Dress, heels, makeup that she probably stressed way too much over. Dressed to the nines, never in jeans and a t-shirt before. But she didn’t really notice, the compliment meaning just as much to her as if she’d been in a floor-length gown. 

“Thanks,” she said, stuffing her clothes from the night before back into her duffel. “I packed the rest of your bag while you were in there, figured I might as well.”

It was Matty’s turn to thank her, squeezing her hand appreciatively before giving the room a quick look. “We didn’t forget anything, then?”

Madison laughed. “We really didn’t stay long enough to unpack, but yeah, we’ve got everything, don’t worry.”

---

Elias had volunteered to do the drive down to Salt Lake City. Matthew’s inner six-year-old had returned, insisting that the group stop at a dinosaur park in a rural part of Utah. What “dinosaur park” meant, Madison wasn’t sure, but it made Matty happy, so she didn’t fight it. 

The museum was mostly outdoors, with life-sized dinosaur models dotting the massive field. “Were you much into dinosaurs as a kid?” Matthew asked Madison. 

“Kind of?” she replied noncommittally. “I always loved learning about them, but never had like a ‘dinosaur phase’ like David or Cody,” she said, referring to her older brothers. “My family used to go to the Canadian Museum of Nature a ton when I was a kid, since it was only a few hours away in Ottawa, and it has like a billion fossils in it.”

“Which was your favorite?”

“Pachycephalosaurus,” she said easily.

Matthew blinked. “Pachycephalo-what?” he asked in confusion. He thought he knew all of them?

Maddy laughed. “Pachycephalosaurus. They had these really spiny heads. But secretly, I think I was a little bit of a teacher’s pet who just liked saying the name. Pretty sure they were actually native to Alberta?” she added. “What about you?”

“Well, now I’m embarrassed to say.”

“Oh, come on,” Madison said, nudging him with her shoulder. “Promise I won’t make fun of you.”

“Fine, fine,” Matty gave in, “it was the brachiosaurus.”

“How come?” she asked curiously. 

“I liked the long necks.” 

They spent another hour or so at the park, Matty grabbing a keychain on the way out. “They didn’t have a brachiosaurus,” he muttered, half-angry, picking up a T-rex one instead. It wasn’t a long drive to the actual Great Salt Lake, and for some reason, they had trusted Elias with the aux. Much to Maddy’s chagrin, he didn’t end up playing ABBA, and they were instead led to cruise down I-15 to the dulcet tones of J.S. Bach. 

Madison looked down at her phone. “Anyone want to go see the Joseph Smith sphinx?” 

“Joseph Smith?” Rasmus questioned.

“Sphinx?” asked Elias.

Matthew laughed. “You know those Egyptian statues of like the cat ladies? Where they have cat bodies but the faces of people?” 

“Joseph Smith was the founder of the Mormon church,” Madison explained. “Well, technically it’s called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, but—”

“Know-it-all,” Matty said in a sing-song voice. Madison shot a glare at him from the back seat. 

“But most people still call them Mormons. And apparently they made him into a sphinx.”

Elias looked at her, still dumbfounded. “But why?”

Maddy shrugged. “Honestly? Beats me.” The weather had dropped too much by the time they had reached the lake to make swimming very practical, so the four of them settled for taking off their shoes, rolling up pants, and wading into the shoreline. 

Matthew bent down, picking up a chipped white rock from the ground, the water just lapping at his fingers. He handed it to Madison. “For you.”

She took it gently, running her hands over the jagged surface. “Aren’t you not allowed to take anything from a national park?”

He winked. “I won’t tell if you don’t.” They stopped at a Chipotle just as the sun was beginning to set, Matthew taking over driving duties from Rasmus. The plan was to drive for another two hours or so, stopping somewhere in southern Utah for the night to spare themselves from another night spent in her Nissan. 

They drove in silence for a while, Elias and Rasmus drifting to sleep in the back row, before a road sign caught Matty’s eyes and he spoke. “I’ve never been to the Grand Canyon, you know,” he said as they continued down I-15. 

Maddy looked over at him. “Do you want to go?” She didn’t know where the suggestion came from, but it was out of her mouth before she could take it back, and after a moment, she realized that she didn’t even want to.

His eyebrows raised as he glanced over at her before turning back to the road, the car’s headlights the only thing in sight. “You mean it?” 

Madison shrugged. “Yeah, why not?” She quickly popped the directions into her phone. “It’s only a few hours out of the way, if we drive through the night instead of stopping somewhere we should have more than enough time.” 

“But didn’t you say sleeping in the car made your back hurt?” Matty asked curiously. 

She smiled softly. “I don’t mind, really. I’ll drive. You’re more important.” Honestly, Maddy surprised herself with her boldness. She wasn’t shy by any stretch of the imagination, but it hadn’t escaped her that the dynamic between her and Matthew had changed in the past few weeks and was about to come to a boil. Matty wasn’t exactly the type of guy Madison expected to have a lot of friends who were girls. And a part of her hated that, hated that because of his reputation she automatically assumed when they became friends that all he wanted to do was get in her pants. There had only been one time in their entire year of friendship when they’d even done so much as kissed, and it wasn’t exactly what you’d consider normal circumstances.

---

It was November of the previous year, about six months after Matthew and Madison had met. Matthew had been even more in his head than normal; he hadn’t scored a single point since midway through their East Coast road trip over two weeks ago, and the disappointment was really starting to rag on him. It might not have been something he outwardly showed all that much, but those who knew him knew that Matthew was actually a deeply sensitive person, who took pride in his wins and carried losses with him well after they had faded from the minds of the rest of the hockey world. 

When it had gotten to the point where his frustration was starting to affect his game, Maddy knew it was time to do something. “You’re so much more than your stats, Matty,” she had said, calling him right before she left for the Saddledome. “I know you take this personally, and you feel like you’re letting down the team, but that’s bullshit and somewhere deep down, I know you agree.” Matthew grumbled something that might have been an agreement. “Your team trusts you, they trust you with the puck and with the A, and you’re never going to disappoint them as long as you’re giving it your all. And if you’re the Matthew Tkachuk I know, there’s never a time when you don’t. And win or lose tonight, there’s nothing you could do to change the fact that your family loves you, and your friends love you, and I love you too. Okay?” Clearly, something in her little pep talk had flipped a switch in Matty, because he returned in spectacular form that night, scoring a hat trick in a roaring 5-1 win over the Coyotes. And he didn’t throw a single punch all game. 

A good game without a travel day following usually calls for going out, and a great game with your best friend scoring a hat trick definitely calls for going out, so she dragged Emily along to the bar that Matthew had told her to meet the team at. Matthew had pulled her into a hug the moment she arrived, kissing her cheek and trying his damndest not to spill the beer in his hand on her shoes. An hour and a half into the night, Madison was four drinks in, well and truly drunk, and Emily had wandered off and appeared to be flirting with an extremely oblivious Noah Hanifin. 

“How are you doing, Mads?” Matthew asked, coming up from behind her barstool and resting his hand gently on the small of her back. 

She looked back at him, a goofy smile on her face, and took another sip of her drink. “I’m good, I’m realllly good,” she giggled. “Did I ever get a chance to tell you how good you were tonight?” Matthew shook his head, very poorly concealing a laugh. He had had more than one beer, sure, but he was nowhere near as gone as Madison. “Because you were really good. A-ma-zing,” she added, punctuating each syllable. Her eyes softened as she leaned in. “I know the points drought was starting to weigh on you, and I’m really glad you were able to do this for yourself. I’m always proud of you, Matty, but I was a little extra proud of you tonight. People sometimes write you off as just another good player without any real subsistence,” she paused, correcting herself, “substance, off the ice, but I know the real you, and the real you is even more incredible than the you that plays hockey. It’s my favorite thing to see.”

“It is?” Matthew asked softly, leaning into the hand that had begun to caress his cheek a little bit imprecisely, but that somehow communicated every kind of unsaid word between them. 

Madison nodded, touching his forehead to hers, and then she tilted in. And then she kissed him. Her lips met his, and she tasted like lime and spearmint chewing gum and his favorite kind of tequila. Her lips met his, and it seemed like the room stood still; he barely heard his teammates’ wolf-whistles or Emily’s elated gasp in the background. Her lips met his, and he drank in every second of the kiss until she pulled away. 

---

Maddy hadn’t been drunk enough to black out that night, and she came to the next morning with a roaring headache and the pang of regret in her heart. She thought it was shame at her behavior, embarrassment that she could act so impulsively, but the more she thought about it, the more she realized. The fact that she kissed Matthew wasn’t the issue, not to her, at least. It was the fact that she was drunk in a bar after a hockey game and that wasn’t how she wanted it to happen. She pushed her feelings to the side, trying desperately to focus on work and supporting Matty through the rest of the season, but they always tended to flare up when they were least welcome. Like at the Idaho Potato Museum.

Which of course meant that Matthew would choose this moment, driving down I-15 with two sleeping Swedish hockey players in the backseat, to bring it up. “I remember when you kissed me, you know,” Matty said softly, reaching up to brush his fingers over his lips, like if he tried hard enough he could remember what it felt like to have Maddy’s pressed against his. 

Madison froze, which isn’t exactly what you’re supposed to do when you’re driving. She thought he had forgotten. He had never brought it up, so she really had no reason to believe he would have remembered. “You do?” she asked, swallowing.

She saw him nod out of the corner of her eye. “Mhm. I hadn’t thought about it in a couple weeks, but back in Idaho, in front of the World’s Largest Potato Crisp…” He let out an airy chuckle. 

Maddy breathed in sharply. So she hadn’t imagined that. Her fingers tapped nervously against the faux leather of the steering wheel. “Yeah…” She trailed off nervously. “I was drunk.”

“Oh, you were hammered,” Matthew agreed. “But do you regret it?”

There it was, the million-dollar question that she somehow actually had the answer to. A long moment passed before she answered, figuring it would be best to just rip the band-aid off. Worst case, Matty would hate her and she’d only be stuck in a car with him for ten-odd more hours. No big deal. “No,” she whispered, voice so small he almost didn’t hear it. 

“I’m glad, because I don’t either,” Matty said. Madison hazarded a glance to her side; he looked almost nervous, and nervous wasn’t a look Matthew Tkachuk did all that often. “I had wanted to for a few months, but it always seemed like it was never the right time, or something interrupted us, or I didn’t know how you felt about me. But you made the first move, and I’m glad you did.”

“How come?”

He sighed. “I don’t know how long I would have waited to do something, or if I ever would have done anything. I feel like sometimes…,” he searched for the right words, “the confidence that I have on the ice can be misleading. Hockey is about reflexes and instincts and knowing the game, but it’s also thinking three steps ahead, anticipating every possible outcome and preparing for them. And that’s the part that I carry off the ice. I think I was worried if I ever brought it up with you, if I ever mentioned that I so much as remembered the kiss, you might clam up and tell me it was a stupid, drunken mistake, and I don’t know what I’d do if you said that. Because I don’t know how you feel about me, not like that”

Her breath caught in her throat, but she managed to force the words out, as scared as she was about admitting them. “I’m pretty sure I’m in love with you and I’m terrified.” Matthew had never seen Madison like this before, unsure and worried and downright vulnerable, and it meant so much to him that she was letting him see her like that. 

Matthew let out a watery laugh. “Only pretty sure? Hurts my ego a little bit.” Maddy opened her mouth, but he waved her off. “Because I’m definitely sure I’m in love with you.” This wasn’t ever how she imagined telling him, and it wasn’t how Matty thought he’d tell her, on a freeway in Southern Utah on their way to the Grand Canyon, but sometimes life throws unexpected things at you and you have to roll with the punches. 

“When did you know?” Madison asked curiously. 

Matthew bit his lip. “Few months ago? I knew I liked you as more than a friend probably since you kissed me, but it was after that game against Vancouver that I really understood I had fallen in love with you.” Maddy remembered the game. It had gone terribly for the Flames, a 4-0 shutout with more than one fight and the bench racking up penalty minutes. What she didn’t know was what made that one special. Matthew looked over at her, answering her unspoken question. “Why that one?” She nodded. “I think it’s because it was such a shitty game. I wouldn’t have blamed you at all if you had just skipped out after the end of the third, I know I can be hard to deal with after a loss. But you didn’t leave, you stayed. I remember seeing you outside the tunnel, swallowed by my jersey because it’s three sizes too big for you and you refuse to let me buy you another—”

“I don’t want another because it’s yours, and I love it,” Maddy said quietly.

Matthew smiled. “Your call. But when I turned the corner and saw you, I realized three things at the exact same time. You were there for me when you didn’t have to be, and I wanted to be able to do the same thing for you. Second, you’re who I wanted to come home to. And last,” he gathered his thoughts, “I realized if I never saw another girl in my jersey for the rest of my life, that would be fine with me.”

“I think I knew when you introduced me to your family, when you flew me down for the All-Star break?” He nodded in recognition. “Just seeing you with them, how much you love your parents and adore Taryn. You even managed to not chirp Brady for a whole dinner.”

“My mom threatened me.”

Madison laughed. “Even so. It just gave me a whole new side to you. I had seen you with your friends, and with the boys, and with me, but it wasn’t the same. How deeply you cared about making sure I fit in with them, and had fun, and felt included. It was the last piece of the puzzle, really.” Her hand rested on the center console after she downshifted.

“So, are we going to do this? Do you want to do this, Mads?” Matty asked, wrapping his fingertips gently around her free hand. 

Flipping her hand around, she interlaced her fingers with his. “I’m all in if you are.”

Matthew bent down, kissing their hands. “I’ve been all in since the moment I met you.” He glanced behind him to the backseat, where Elias and Rasmus were still fast asleep. “What do you think they’re going to say when they wake up?” 

“I’m not sure,” Madison said, laughing. “Probably tell us it’s about time. Pass me my phone, will you?” Matthew pulled out her phone from where it was charging on the passenger side. 

“What do you need to look up?” he asked curiously as she pulled off of the freeway and into a gas station; the directions were already programmed into the car��s navigation system.

Maddy gave a coy smile, gently putting the car into park. “I’ve got to text the girl’s chat, tell them they’ve got to make me a jacket. They’re going to go wild.”

 Day 4

 The chat did go wild, even more so after she sent a picture of her kissing Matty’s cheek. After about a half-dozen “we called its” and a promise for her jacket to be ready by the first home game of the series, she turned her phone off, leaning over to ruffle Matthew’s hair; he had taken over driving sometime around four o’clock. “I like that I can just do this now,” she mused, playing with his curls as they crossed the border into Arizona. 

“Please, no PDA in front of the children,” he said playfully, gesturing to the backseat. Elias flipped him off. 

The entrance to the Grand Canyon was only an hour past the state line, and there were more than a few cafés to grab a quick breakfast at. Most of the day was spent walking around the vast expanse of the park, marvelling at its natural grandeur, and taking more than a few incredibly aesthetically pleasing Instagram pictures. A few minutes before they had to pack up and leave for the last leg of the drive, they had hiked over to the South Rim. 

Matty leaned on the barriers overlooking the canyon. “It’s so big.” 

Rasmus snickered from behind them. “Duh, Tkachuk. That’s why they call it grand.” 

He ducked his head, blushing. “Yeah, I mean, obviously. But it’s just kind of surreal, you know?” Madison nodded, leaning her head on his shoulder. He wrapped one arm around her waist, and if either of them had turned around they would have seen Rasmus and Elias sharing a very “I-told-you-so” look. “Kind of reminds us how small we are in the grand scheme of things.” 

It seemed like only a few minutes later that they were pulling into Las Vegas, Rasmus steering the car into the underground lot of the team hotel. None of the boys were expected at practice until the next morning, and they had decided before leaving that the easiest thing to do would just be to book the rooms for the one night. 

“Anyone feeling up to going out?” Maddy asked as they walked down the hallway to their adjoining rooms. “I found a tiki bar a couple blocks away, great Yelp reviews.”

“Sounds good,” Rasmus said. Elias nodded. 

“I’m in,” Matthew added, unlocking the door. “Meet out here in ten?”

The break allowed Madison to get a much-needed change of clothes while Matthew hopped in for a quick shower, emerging in a T-shirt and very, very nice-looking pair of black jeans. Maddy bit her lip, looking him up and down. “You like what you see?” Matthew asked, expression cocky. 

She shrugged. “I don’t have to hide it now.” Madison slipped her phone into her back pocket, grabbing her jacket from where it was slung over the lounge chair. “You ready to go?”

“Yeah,” Matthew said, poking his head out the door. “Boys are already out.”

The walk to the bar couldn’t have been more than five minutes, but it felt like twenty in the best way possible. She was holding hands with Matty, his thumb absentmindedly rubbing over the top of her hand, the twinkling lights of dozens of Vegas casinos in their view. Two and a half mai tais and an hour later, the group sat at a table in the corner as Maddy giggled, retelling a particularly embarrassing moment on her high school volleyball team when she tried to make a dive that instead ended up with a ten minute pause in gameplay and the worst nosebleed of her life. She finished the story to raucous laughter, leaning into Matthew’s side. He bent down, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “What is it, Matty?” she asked, pulling away to look at him. 

Eyes soft, he tucked a piece of her hair back behind her ear before speaking. “Just thanking God I invited you on the trip. And for the Idaho Potato Museum.”

Madison laughed, the sound like music as it reached his ears. “We should write them. Thank them for helping to get us together. Maybe they’d give us season tickets.”

“Who needs season tickets when I have you?” Matty chuckled, leaning in and pressing his lips to hers.  Sure, Madison was a few drinks in when she kissed him. And sure, it wasn’t like Matty was exactly sober either. But this kiss was different. This kiss was the start of everything. 

[toplinetommy]

Redefining Home - Matthew Tkachuk

Synopsis: After spending months with Matthew in his childhood home in St. Louis, it’s time for him to go back to Calgary, and the reality of your normally long-distance relationship settles back in.

Words: 2k

A/N: very brief mention of the pandemic, gif credit @matthewtkafuck​

Three months - almost four; that’s how long you had spent close to every second of every day with Matthew and the entirety of the Tkachuk family. It was a huge change in the way you and Matthew experienced your relationship. Over the past year and a half of your relationship, the entire of it was spent as long-distance.

You had met Matthew when you had just started your career in Chicago, working for your dream company, living in an apartment your younger self could only dream of. Matthew had been in town for a game against the Chicago Blackhawks. They had won, the younger guys on the team opting to go out to celebrate, while you and some of your roommates were celebrating a birthday. One thing led to another and you had quite literally bumped into Matthew’s tall and broad frame while chasing your extremely drunk friend.

That night your friend ended up finding the rest of your group and you seemed to be glued to Matthew’s side the second you guys made eye contact. Sure you got yelled at by your friends the following morning about how you ditched them, but in the long run, no one could complain. You had gotten the handsome, curly-headed NHL player’s phone number with absolutely no intention to ever use it. That was until a few days later a text from an unsaved number popped up, saying it was Matthew from the bar a few nights ago. 

With him being a professional athlete in not only another country, but a different timezone, your guys’ relationship had started off with what most people would classify as a friendship based around your clear attraction for one another. Texting each other a few times a day turned into texting all day, every day, which then turned into facetiming any chance the two of you could get. Whether that be during your lunch break at work, him on the team bus to the airport, when you were walking down the city blocks of downtown Chicago, or him skipping his pre-game naps to just to hear your voice.

Your relationship started to shift from two friends to two people that were clearly interested in one another trying to figure out how to discuss those feelings when you were never in the same city and rarely in the same timezone. After weeks of pestering and some convincing from your roommate, you had agreed to get on a plane when Matthew had a string of home back-to-backs one weekend. He convinced you to come to see him play in person and then he could officially give you the wine and dine experience he told you you deserved.

That one weekend trip turned into you visiting him any weekend you could when he was in Calgary and even some when he was in various other cities. It was weekends away with him in his Calgary apartment and him flying into Chicago to spent time with you and your roommates with the very little free time he got. 

Weeks and weeks of flying around the North American continent and late-night facetimes when you weren’t together passed by before he had asked you to be his girlfriend to which you excitedly said yes to that one night in his Calgary apartment.

Those weekends spent flying in an out of Chicago were worth it though. Now, here you both were, in Matthew’s childhood home in St. Louis planning for what your guys’ next move was once he got on his flight back to Calgary to start training camp before the playoffs.

You’re sitting on the large sectional in the family living room, your feet laying across Matthews’s lap as he mindlessly rubs his thumb along your shins. You shiver at one particular stroke of his thumb causing Matthew to giggle and playfully squeeze your leg. You kick him playfully while sticking your tongue out, hoping to pull his attention from the tv show playing in front of you two. 

“Matthew,” you try, sticking out your bottom lip in a pout. He turns his head towards you raising his eyebrows as he hums out his response. Even though he’s facing you now, his gaze is still focused on the tv in front of him so you try again. 

“Matty,” you try again, this time dragging out his name in a whine. 

“Yeah, baby?”

“Give me attention.”

“Y/n, we‘re watching tv there’s only so much attention I can give you,” he reasons. He moves one of his hands further up your leg, reaching out to grab one of yours. He pulls your hand, making you sit up from where you’re leaning back against the couch. He continues to pull you until you’re curled into his side, head on his shoulders and legs still in his lap. 

He places his hand atop your head, flattening the stray strands of hair before placing a kiss there. Once his lips leave the crown of your head, he keeps his hand there as he continues to push his fingers through your hair and watch the show playing on the tv screen. 

You mindlessly move your body around, faking uncomfortableness in order for Matthew to abandon the show and give you his full attention. Once you’ve moved your hand across his chest for what felt like the 50th time in five minutes, Matthew grabs the remote next to him pausing the show. 

“What’s on your mind?”

“You’re leaving again in a few days, just wanna spend as much time with you as possible.”

At the admission, Matthew pulls your body further into his lap, maneuvering you so you’re straddling him. He looks into your eyes, noting the soft expression on your face as you look back into his blue eyes. 

“Baby,” He starts, his hand wrapped around the side of your neck, thumb resting on your jaw. “I’ll be back before you know it.”

“But you’ll be back here and I’ll be back in Chicago.”

“And I’ll come see you when the season’s over, just like I did last year.”

“I don’t know if that’s what I want anymore.” You let out barely above a whisper. Matthew jolts at your response, slightly pushing yourself body away from his as he leans back into the couch cushions trying to put as much space between the two of you he can. 

“What?”

“No, not like that,” you smile. “I love you, you idiot, you aren’t getting rid of me that easy. I just meant being apart.”

Matthew sighs heavily at your clarification, his thighs relaxing underneath you. You place your hands around his neck, leaning your body into him. 

“I thought you were okay with us doing distance? It’s been working so far, hasn’t it?”

“It was, yeah, I don’t know. I just had this plan and then this whole pandemic hit and you let me come stay here these past few months and it’s just been so nice being around you all the time. It was working before, it just doesn’t seem like the ideal choice anymore.”

“But you had your plan. You’re gonna work your ass off until you get your promotion, then we were gonna talk about moving in together.”

“I know but my perspective has changed,” you start. “How am I supposed to just go back to Chicago without you, not knowing when we’ll see each other again when I got to have some of the best three months of my life with you here in St. Louis. It’s like I didn’t know how amazing it would be to be around you nonstop and now that I know what it’s like I’m not sure I can just go back to Chicago and how we were.”

Matthew tilts his head to look more directly at your face that’s now laying on his chest. He moves his hand to your head, tilting it upwards to meet his gaze. Instead of responding right away, he opts to lean in and place his lips on yours in a gentle kiss that expresses his love for you.

“I love you, so much, baby.” He assures you.

“I love you.”

“So you’re saying that you don’t want to do distance anymore?”

“I don’t think I can, especially not after knowing what it’s like to live with you.” You reiterate.

“I don’t want you to put me before your career, especially when I’ll be gone half the season on the road,” Matthew speaks lowly. He knows the weight of the decision you’re pondering and wants to make sure it’s the right one.

“I want to be with you Matty, all the time, no matter what.” You move away from him, trying to get a better look at his facial features as you speak. “I’ll start looking for jobs in Calgary tomorrow even.”

“You’re serious?” Matthew laughs, eyebrows raised.

“100 percent.” You smile widely, leaning in towards Matthew’s face to touch your lips to his. His eyes stare into yours until your lips meet in a very giggly and teeth-filled kiss. A kiss that’s full of pure elation at the decision the two of you just made. 

“It’s more than just getting a job, it’s in a whole new country.” He breathes against your lips.

“We’ll figure it out.”

“Instead of you just moving into my place, let’s find a new apartment. My lease ends in November, you can come up then and we can look for a new place. Our place.”

“Can it at least have the same floor-to-ceiling windows you have in your place now?” You request with glee.

“Anything my girl wants, she gets.” Matthew laughs, giving you one more quick kiss and a squeeze at your waist. “Is it selfish of me to say I’m thankful for this quarantine, then? I get you with me 24/7 now.”

You laugh at his suggestion, “How did I get so lucky?”

Brady and Keith both walk in the room as you finish talking, Brady instantly chirping his brother. “You’re the lucky one? I’m pretty sure Matthew’s the lucky one in your relationship.”

Matthew pushes your body away from his, grabbing the decorative pillow next to him and throwing it at his brother’s moving figure. You laugh as the pillow missing Brady and hits Keith instead, who instantly scolds his oldest son. 

“You guys look awfully happy.” He comments.

Matthew looks back at you, silently asking for your approval on sharing the news before you nod your head yes. “We’re moving in together.”

“Three months with us and you’re still choosing to move in with him?” Brady chirps once again. “I’m surprised he hasn’t run you out of St. Louis yet.” Keith looks at his younger son at this, giving him a stern look telling him to shut up.

“Congratulations guys,” Keith smiles. “Y/n, whatever happens, don’t get roped into doing his laundry all the time. Despite his complaining, he does know how to do it.” 

Matthew rolls his eyes at his family members’ chirps, still basking in the excitement that was your guys’ relationship’s next step. You couldn’t agree more with his earlier statement - you had to be thankful for being stuck at the Tkachuk family home for three months. It took your relationship to the next level, even with the very close encounters where you were sure Matthew was getting under your skin just to piss you off. Matthew was your best friend and you couldn’t wait to be a part-time Canadian, something he liked to call himself with his career. Being with him all day for the past few months only reaffirmed your deep love for the curly-headed boy who sat underneath you.