#hockey boys

[bluewxrld07]

I'm The Problem (Luke Hughes)

Summary: Luke isn't the happiest camper post his shoulder surgery, and he feels at a loss at the fact he needs help doing almost everything. His best friend Y/N has been there every step of the way, but takes a step back after Luke get overstimulated

Warning(s): angst, yelling/cursing, crying, lack of self-worth

"For fucks sake."

Luke was annoyed to say the absolute least.

After getting an injury towards the end of the season, especially during playoffs, he felt like he let down the team at the one time where it counted most.

The surgery went smooth and well, it was the recovery that was taking a toll on him. He was a someone who liked the faster healing process rather than sitting on being patient. Only in certain cases that is, which this one happens to be part of.

He always looked forward to the summertime because he got to see his friends back home, stay at the lakehouse, golf and skate freely without the pressure on him.

Now he could barely do any of that without his injury causing some sort of issue. Don't even get him started on the sling. He hated that thing with a burning passion.

Y/N though, was there to help pick him back up when he needed it most.

She managed to take time off of work for a couple weeks during the week of his surgery to help him, especially since Jack was still in recovery from his own.

Luke didn't think he'd be able to get through anything without her around, she was an angel in disguise for him post surgery.

That was at first.

The more and more Luke figured out he couldn't do while in Michigan, the more frustrated and overwhelmed he began to feel. He couldn't swing a golf club, put on clothes properly, wash his hair, drive a car (or boat for that matter). It was beginning to piss him off as time went on.

Y/N would cut in to help him whenever she could see the annoyance reaching his eyes.

The time he was trying to open one of his meal prep containers, tongue sticking out as he grumbled at it not opening.

So Y/N walked over and softly grabbed it from his hands. "I got it, it's okay." she assures him with a soft smile, opening it with a pop and handing it back to him.

"Thank you pretty girl," he chuckles dryly.

Luke first started off mumbling out 'thank you's and now he barely said a thing when she'd cut in. He would either scoff or stomp away like a toddler.

Y/N understood how helpless Luke felt, as having a knee surgery a few years back that caused her to be bedridden for a month or two. it was hard to see everyone doing stuff for you around you when all you wanted to do was accomplish it on your own.

What Luke didn't know was how exhausted Y/N was. Not mentally, but physically. She was up every night the week post his surgery, making sure to switch out his ice packs, bandages, meds, you name it.

She only got a couple hours of sleep realistically each night during that time. She would never complain about it, because she wanted to make the process easy on Luke.

It was now the summertime in which meant she was done with college for the time being until fall, so she was also joining the boys at the lakehouse as per tradition. Not only to make sure Luke had the help he needed, but to also see her other favorite friends she hadn't seen in a bit as they were all traveling for work too.

It was another early morning in the Hughes lakehouse, she was just returning from her workout session and grocery shopping when she could hear the quiet commotion of some of the boys awake in the kitchen.

She smiles warmly as she sets down both arms that are full of grocery bags, nicely onto the counter. Dylan Duke, Cole and Quinn were all awake and made their ways over to the girl to help unpack everything.

"You're all awake earlier than usual." she jokes, opening a bottle of water.

"We decided to run this morning, and we were the only ones who actually got up at our alarms to go." Cole mentions, making her chuckle lightly.

"Should've came and joined my class today. Totally would've made you sweat your asses off, but totally worth how you feel afterwards." She says after she swallows a sip of her drink.

Quinn gives her a look, and points at her. "Absolutely not, I've seen how scary Hot Pilates can be." he denies as he puts groceries away.

"Oh come on it isn't that bad. You gotta try it before you hate on it!" she argues, Dylan laughing at her statement.

"We choose life sweetheart," Cole laughs. "Besides us men can't be seen dying in a class like that. Let's be real." Dylan adds. Y/N rolls her eyes playfully.

"Besides," Quinn buds in. "Luke was about to go insane if he didn't get out of this house somehow and do something more productive."

Y/N raises her brow. "He went running too?"

The boys nodded. "How'd he feel after that?" she says, going to sit at one of the barstools and crossing one leg over the other.

Quinn puts a hand over his neck and slides it across as if to signal not to ask. She purses her lips. "That bad huh?"

Dylan sighs. "He ended up stopping halfway through and walking the rest of the way because the motion kept killing his shoulder. He was red in the face by the time he got back to the house, and it wasn't just from how warm it is outside."

Y/N rubs a hand over her face. "Did he take any of his painkillers? I left them on his nightstand this morning before I left."

Dylan shrugs his shoulders. "No idea. He was too crabby to talk to, so I have no idea."

"You know I'm not deaf right?" Luke's voice booms into the kitchen, his back turned towards them all as he goes to sit on the couch.

He was dressed in a pair of athletic shorts and a plain navy blue t-shirt, his sling over his body and hair still slightly damp from his shower.

Y/N looks at the boys, trying to hide her amused smile as they are. They decide to keep putting stuff away for Y/N while she looks back at Luke who is hunched over and tense.

She hops off the chair and makes her way towards him and rounds the couch to sit next to the blond boy.

He is staring forward, knee bouncing as if he is contemplating in his head.

"How're you feeling Lu?" she asks cautiously.

Luke just grimaces. "Sore." Is all he responds with.

"Did you take some of your meds?"

"Yeah I did when I got back."

"Why didn't you take them before?"

Luke just lets out a loud huff and rolls his eyes, standing up his spot and walking into the kitchen to join the boys conversation.

Y/N frowns at his mood change, knowing no matter how frustrated he got, he never shut her down like that. Instead of bombarding him she ignores it and stands up herself.

"I'm gonna go shower, and then what is the plan today?" she asks.

Cole scratches his head. "Uhhh I think we're going to do the boat for like an hour or two, and then Jack was saying we should hit up this new juice place. He said it's similar to Jamba Juice or something, but it's like the protein juice things."

She gives a thumbs up before walking away towards Luke's room to grab a change of clothes before heading to shower.

Once she finishes and she's dressed, she heads back down the stairs to now see everyone was awake and music was softly playing in the background as they all conversed.

Jack saw her and smiled before pulling her in for a bear hug. "Goodmorning sunshine."

"More like good afternoon now sir." she chuckles, and Jack rolls his eyes as he looks down at her when they break apart. "Hey I forgot I told them I would join this morning, I like my sleep."

"Oh I know. I said you guys should've just joined my workout class this morning."

Jack snorts. "Absolutely not, I choose life my dear Y/N."

"That's what I told her!" Dylan points out, mouthful of food.

"You're a bunch of wimps." she laughs as she goes to grab the cooler off of Quinn's hands.

"Let's get this show on the road now shall we? We're wasting daylight!" she says before heading towards the sliding door.

They all began to slowly follow behind the girl, her letting them all pass to make sure the door was shut before they left. Luke was the last to leave, his face still a bit more droopy. His eyes caught hers, and she gave him a soft, warm smile. "You ready to go?" she says.

"I'm here aren't I?" he says with an annoyed tone, making her smile fall slightly but she tries to hide it and just nods.

"I brought some of your stuff just incase you start to hurt while we're out there." she says, and he just nods.

"You feeling okay Luke?" she finally asks as they walk side by side.

"Yes I'm fine, stop asking." he says in a short tone, earning a frown from Y/N.

"Watch the tone I'm only asking because I care." she shoots back, and watches his face fall slightly.

"Sorry. I'm sorry you're right. I'm just really sore today." he says with a sigh, and she nods. "That's okay. It's normal. I get it." is all she answers with a tight smile.

The rest of the way onto the boat is quiet between them both, Luke deciding to catch up to Duke and talk with him as they got onto the boat.

Jack helped grab the cooler and Y/N's wrist to help her onto the boat, the girl smiling thankfully at him as she stepped onto the wobbly platform.

She went to go sit across from Luke instead of next to him like she usually would, just to give him a bit of space as she's noticed his mood has been a bit more negative with her.

Luke doesn't say anything as he sees her sit across from him, only eyeing her as he talks to Duke who sits on one side of him. She gives him a tight-lipped smile before looking away and starts to talk with Cole and Trevor, Quinn being the designated driver for the day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Ouch Trevor! Move your fat ass over!" Y/N laughs out, pushing the boy over to his side of the booth, rolling her eyes as he playfully dramatized her actions with a fake pout.

The other boys get back with everyone's drinks, Y/N thanking Quinn as he handed her what she ordered before she takes a sip.

The group all converses amongst one another, discussing the plans for the summer and all the concerts they have all planned while sipping and munching on food and drinks.

"So Y/N you gonna have any dates while you're out here this summer?" Cole teases, earning a look from her with an amused smile.

"Yeah absolutely not. Remember how that went last summer?"

"Which one? The one that stood you up and said his fish died, or the one that ordered for you?" he jokes.

"Both actually," she chuckles while sipping on her drink.

"Yeah I remember when you texted the chat saying how the dumbass had been already sitting at a table with food ordered by the time you got there."

"Wait what? He already had it ordered?" Jack snorts.

She nods with a laugh. "Oh yeah. Basically gave me the house salad that comes with his order. So didn't even order me something for myself." she says, the guys all laughing.

Luke rolls his eyes and shakes his head as he remembers that day. She felt so annoyed and so pissed off, and she was starving after that ended.

"Never again. If I go on a date at all this summer, it's because it's with the guy I'd actually want to go on one with." she admits, making the boys all snap their heads to her.

"Wait," Trevor says, mouthful of chips. "There actually is a guy you have your eyes on??" he questions, and she nods with a raised brow.

"Who?" Duke pries, and she shrugs her shoulders while stirring her drink.

Her eyes scan the group, Jack giving her a knowing look and she just averts his gaze. "Oh come on you've gotta give us something." Cole groans, and she shakes her head.

"Nope not this year."

"Why not?"

"Because everytime I tell you guys, I feel like I jinx it because then they ghost me right after!"

"I doubt this one would." Quinn hums out, making her snap her head towards him and his shrugs.

"What? It's true!"

"Quinn knows?! Why does Quinn know?" Trevor whines.

"She didn't tell me, I just figured it out." he laughs, and she points at him with a nod.

"He's right."

"Well then now you have to tell us." Trevor begs, and she shakes her head with a laugh.

"What does Golfing look like this week?" she says to change the subject. The guys easily grab onto the bait and start discussing what they had in mind, her eyes drifting towards Luke who sat in the corner of the booth.

He was in his own world, gnawing on his straw as he tries to listen to the group converse. She can tell he is in his own mind.

She lightly nudges his leg underneath the table, causing him to snap out of his daze and look over at her. "You feeling alright?" she asks a little bit more on the quiet side, not to disturb the group of boys in front of them.

He rolls his eyes. "Y/N when are you going to stop asking me that? It's really not necessary." His gaze going back to the boys.

"You just seem off, and I want to make sure you're okay. Or that if your shoulder is bugging you-"

"I'm not a pussy I can handle the soreness and pain that comes with my injury, alright? Knock it off." he snaps quietly, his eyes burning over towards hers.

She looks at him in disbelief, stunned at the words that just came out of his mouth.

"Fuck me I guess." she mumbles back before deciding to ignore his energy, ignoring the look he throws her way after she says that, indulging in the new topic the boys were now caught into.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`

Once they had arrived home from the juice place, Y/N was at a breaking point.

After how Luke had treated her throughout the day, she began to realize something was seriously wrong with him. She couldn't figure out what it was.

She knew he had been frustrated about his injury in general, but she didn't know why it was getting worse whenever she came around.

The boys all went to sit down in the livingroom as the rain started to slowly come down. The soft patters being heard on the rooftop of the house.

They turned on some country music while connecting the PS5 to the giant TV screen. Y/N had gone into the kitchen to go and grab herself something to eat and something to drink, setting it onto the kitchen island as she also went and prepped Luke's meds he was supposed to take every evening like clockwork.

The glass of water fills up and she tries to hide the shaking in her hands, both from exhaustion and anxiety because of what's going on with Luke.

She shook the tension away that was forming between them, and put on a fake facade while walking over to the boys.

"You going to come and join us for a round?" Cole asks, motioning towards the video games on the screen.

She smiles and nods. "Yes I will. Just give me a few minutes."

Y/N walks towards the other big couch where Luke was sitting with Duke and Jack, softly putting her hand on his good shoulder. He whipped his head towards her before rolling his eyes.

"Hey I have your meds, and I grabbed you a water to help get them down-"

"I don't need it."

"Luke you know you're supposed to take these or you can't sleep." she pries with a frown.

He huffs and decides to ignore her, starting to talk to Duke and Jack again. The boys give her a reassuring look before looking back at Luke.

"Luke, take them. You know how you get without them. If you take them later you're going to get sick." she tries again soft but stern.

Luke still doesn't acknowledge her, so she lets out a huff.

"Luke I swear if you don't take these-"

"Oh my fucking fuck Y/N just stop! I said No!"

"Luke I know you don't want to, but your surgeon says you need-"

"I don't give a fuck! I am sick of taking those and I am sick of you breathing down my neck and forcing those down my throat. Seriously knock it the fuck off!" he snaps, making the room quiet and look at the pair.

His eyes are now staring up at hers with a sharp glare, hers frowning down at him in confusion.

"Luke what the fuck is your issue? I'm just trying to help you-"

"Well fucking stop helping! I don't need your help, or you! You're insufferable! You breathe down my neck at every single moment of every single fucking day and it's annoying. You're like a clingy girlfriend who won't hop off my dick. Seriously stop, just stop!" he yells out, and begins to stand up.

Only when he stands up, his good shoulder hits her hands that were frozen in place with the glass and pills. Before she can react, the glass and pills spill from her hands and crash onto the hardwood floor, glass shattering everywhere.

It was so silent that you could've heard a pin drop. Y/N is frozen as she looks at the mess on the ground, hands shaking as her anxiety increases, hands frozen in their spot where she was once holding things.

She could feel the tears forming, lip quivering.

"Y/N" Jack's voice perks up slowly.

"Y/N are you okay?" Jack asks slowly once again. She snaps out of her daze, and sniffles putting on a fake smile.

She nods quickly and her arms fall to their sides.

"Yeah. Yeah I'm fine, I'm good. I uh I'm just going to clean this up and head to bed." she says before walking quickly to the kitchen to grab the cleaning supplies.

Jack is the first to stand up and follow behind her to the closet.

She's letting out a few huffs and sniffles when he sees her, shakily grabbing the broom and dust pan. Jack grabs them from her hands and says her name softly to have her look up at him.

"I got it. It's okay." he says to her in an assuring tone.

She looks into his eyes for a second, Jack seeing the heartbreak hitting her eyes as tears fall freely.

"I got the mess. Okay?" he says one more time, and she wipes her eyes.

"Okay." she sighs before leaving the room quickly and rushing up the stairs.

When Jack emerges from the closet and over towards the mess on the ground, his eyes glared over at Luke who was still standing and facing where Y/N once stood.

"You're a fucking asshole, Luke." he growls out. Luke sighs and lets his head fall.

"That was a dick move. Real dick move bro, she's been there for you the most out of anybody." Duke adds in, Luke running his hands through his hair.

"Well she hasn't left me alone for one fucking minute! I was losing my mind okay? This recovery has fucking sucked." he sputter out, sitting back down and putting his face into one hand.

"Do you know how much shit she has done for you? She didn't sleep a wink when she was one jersey during your first week post surgery." Jack admits.

"What do you mean?" Luke says.

"She stayed up a majority of every night in case you woke up in pain, or in case you needed something other than your doses of your meds. She was the one who would fill the kitchen with your favorite snacks. Your favorite drinks. She was the one who has dropped everything to take you to PT and your surgical follow ups. She hasn't slept since your surgery, because she wants to make sure this recovery is as easy as it can be for you!" Jack bursts, red in the face.

Luke sighs. "Fuck." he winces.

"Dude if you weren't injured right now I'd fucking smack you silly." Quinn scoffs.

"I don't care if you're injured, I'm still debating on doing it." Jack says.

Luke felt like shit. It was all hitting him now.

The times he caught her already awake at five in the morning. The tired red eyes she would have, bags very prominent underneath. The little naps she would take on his lap during the day. Her forgetting to eat because she was so caught up on preparing his food. Missing nights out with her girlfriends to be there for his appointments and PT.

Now he knows he has fucked up in the past, but he really fucked up in this moment. He fucked up terribly.

"I'd be so surprised if you're able to fix this one. You really hurt her, Luke." Jack says, a tired tone being heard in his voice.

"I really fucking hurt her. Fuck I fucked up bad." he groans out, feeling his face get hot and eyes gloss over.

All of their ears perked up when they hear the front door shut, Jack's eyes darting back over to Luke with a scowl as his own face had a fearful look going.

Silence follows as the boys watch Jack drop the supplies in his hands and scurry towards the entryway and open the door.

The door slams shut and Jack comes stomping back.

He points at Luke. "I'm gonna beat your ass." he snaps walking over towards his brother, Cole and Trevor walking towards him and pull him back. Luke stands up.

"What? Why? What happened?"

"She's gone."

Luke's eyes widen, soon rounding the couch and running up the stairs and towards his room.

He slams the door open on turns on the light, frowning when he sees her stuff is still on her side of his bed still in the messy clean form it was in this morning.

He rushes down the stairs. "Her stuff is still here." he says.

Jack is running his hand through his hair while the other is sitting on his hip.

"You better go find her. You better fucking find her, or hope she fucking comes back in one piece. If not, it's your head that will be on a stick by morning."

Luke glares at Jack at his sudden protectiveness over Y/N. "Since when do you get so protective over her? What's your fucking deal?"

"Because that girl is one you shouldn't treat like shit or throw away! She's one that you keep around forever, Luke. That girl is so fucking in love with you and you fucking blew it!" Jack says, his voice raising with every word he says.

Luke freezes.

"Wait, what?"

Jack bites his lip. "Fuck," he hisses. "I wasn't supposed to say that."

"Since when? How long have you known this?" Luke says, his anger now rising.

"No you don't get to fucking be the one who is pissed off! You don't get to act like that!" Quinn buds in.

Luke glares at his older brother. "You knew too? Are you fucking joking? Why-"

"Alright fucking enough! This isn't what we should be fighting about, what we should be doing is figuring out how the fuck Luke is going to fix things with Y/N." Trevor bursts out, making everyone turn over to him in shock.

Trevor throws his hands up in the air. "Yeah I know. Trevor of all people saying you guys need to calm the fuck down, but seriously I'm the only one that is also willing to see that we have a bigger issue to fix right now."

"Luke you need to figure out what you're going to say and do to fix this," Trevor instructs while pointing at him. He then points at the other boys. "You guys can sort your shit out afterwards. Y/N comes first right now."

Luke huffs, knowing he really had to sort his shit out. He royally fucked up badly, and this was the girl he cared about more than anyone else who existed in his life.

Jack was right. She was a forever girl.

He just hoped that she would still be there after all of this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Y/N arrived home, it was late. WayI late.

She knew it was way late when all of the boys were sleeping, and the lights were all off inside the house. The outdoor porch light glowing a dark orange as she approached the front door.

Sniffles left her lips as she tried to stay as quiet as she could while opening the door, silently closing and locking it behind her.

The girl kicks her shoes off and lines them up at the door with all the other pairs of shoes there, setting her keys on the group key hanger before padding into the kitchen.

She turns on the dimmer lighting, hoping to not let it be too bright to wake any of the boys whom were sleeping on the main floor bedrooms.

When she opened the fridge she saw her leftovers that she was going to eat earlier that night sitting right in the smack-dab front, a note adorning the top of the lid.

Made sure nobody touched it. I hope you're home safely

-Quinn

She sighs before placing the note on the counter, opening up the container and grabbing a fork as she decides to just eat it cold to not worry about waking up anyone in the house.

Y/N brings the bowl over to one of the living room couches and eats in absolute silence, her mind running in circles as it has been all night. She thought maybe going for a drive and then stopping at the beachfront of the lake next to theirs would be a way to somewhat clear her mind a bit.

As she sat there alone with her thoughts once more, she couldn't help but break down into more tears.

Her container falls onto the coffee table as she lets the tears fall freely, putting her head into her hands as she lays herself on her side. Her chest feeling heavy as her heart breaks over again.

She couldn't believe Luke had really said those things. Really thought that about her especially.

Was she really that clingy? That much of a nuisance to Luke? Was she just causing more harm than good to him right now? Should she just leave the lakehouse in the morning was the real question.

She didn't know what to do.

Tears kept falling freely as she lay there on the couch, curled into a ball, rubbing her arms up and down.

Her eyes suddenly started to feel heavier, her sobs turning into soft hiccups, tears drying on her face that was red, splotchy and puffy. She let her eyes slowly close, her mind trying to be silenced by sleep.

Which slowly does take over.

Y/N soon is fast asleep on the couch, no blanket or pillow covering her as she was too caught up in her mind to notice.

Little did she realize that her container falling onto the table caused a loud enough noise for the oldest Hughes brother to stun awake and head out to the kitchen to see what was happening.

He squints around, then does s double take when he sees a small form curled up on the couch while little hiccups left their mouth. He walks over, his heart clenching as he sees Y/N shaking from crying so much while being fast asleep.

He grabs her bowl and puts the rest back into the fridge for her tomorrow, then walking back over to the girl and picking her up slowly to not disturb the much needed slumber she needs.

Quinn looks down at her, seeing how torn her face looked even in her sleep. If thoughts could kill in that moment, he was sure Luke would be dead in an instant.

Once he is back into his room, he quietly shuts the door and brings her over to lay in his bed. He sets her down softly and cover her up with his comforter, kissing her head softly. "I'm so sorry he did this to you." he whispers out, knowing she couldn't hear him.

He sighs before standing up and walking over to his side of the bed and getting in. Once his light is turned off he is laying on his side and keeps his distance from Y/N so she has her space, before he himself slowly falls back into a deep slumber.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Her car is here so she had to come back. There is no way she would just disappear." Luke says as he paces around. "She didn't come sleep in my room last night."

"Well I wouldn't blame her is she decided to sleep somewhere else too. I wouldn't want to be near you either after being told all of that." Duke says, earning a look from Luke. His friend put his hands up in defense.

Jack, Cole and Trevor were all out that morning picking up some of Y/N favorites in opes that they could try to make her feel a bit better, while Luke was conjuring up what he was going to do and say to Y/N to at least get on a path towards fixing things between them both.

"Where would she have gone? She hates sleeping in other beds. She says they're not as comfortable, and I'm the only one in the house that has a fan. Because she can't sleep without one." Luke bombards, biting his nails.

"Well I think after how much she cried out last night, her body will be out for quite some time with no fan or your bed needed." Quinn's voice perks up, the boys waltzing into the kitchen with a yawn.

Luke stops pacing and looks at Quinn.

"What do you mean? Where is she? Is she safe?"

Quinn shushes his brother with a look and a hand motion to shut him up.

"Yes she is fine. She's asleep in my room-"

"What the fuck-"

"No don't start that shit. She wouldn't be in there in the first place if you didn't act like a bitch and go off on her like you did last night." Quinn chirps before Luke can say another word. "So yeah she is sleeping in my room. I woke up because I heard her come home, she passed out from crying so much on the couch, so I carried her to sleep in my room. You need to get over yourself if you're going to even have a chance at fixing the mess you made." Quinn admits.

Luke knows he is right. Quinn might've been the more quiet and reserved one out of the three brothers, but when he was mad or driven about something, people listened because he wasn't bullshitting in any way.

Luke decided to keep his mouth shut and put his good hand on his hip.

"So what do I do? Where do I start?" he asks, and Quinn shuts the fridge to turn to his brother.

"You need to apologize. Really apologize, hear her out, and be fucking honest." Quinn instructs. "You want a chance at being with the one girl I know you're just as obsessed with as she is with you, then you need to lay every fucking thing out. Don't bullshit any of it, Luke." Quinn explains, letting his little brother take in his words.

"But for now, you need to let her sleep. She looked so exhausted. Let her sleep and take her time. Don't immediately jump her throat when she so much as walks out here." He finishes before disappearing from the kitchen to go outside.

Duke looks at Luke and nods. "I think he's right. He said it better than I could've."

So that's what Luke did.

He left to go golfing with the boys. He left to go out on the boat. He left to go into town for lunch. He gave her space. He didn't want to do what Quinn said would make her feel pressured. He kept his distance.

Throughout that day, he slowly started to realize just how much her presence was meant for their group. Meant for him. He never realized how important she became for him especially with all of his post surgery things. She did keep him in check for good reasons.

He was stressed out every time he forgot to take his meds. Or when he forgot to do his PT exercises. Or when he especially forgot to switch out his ice packs.

She really did make it an easier process for him. Every single thing she was doing wasn't to be a pain in his ass or cling onto him, it was to make it easier on him.

He groans at the thought, knowing he really wished he could've just shut his trap the night before, but of course his pain and soreness and helplessness made him lash out on the one person who made this whole thing so much simpler for him.

The boys all sat around the fire pit later that night, music playing softly while they all sat amongst one another and talked. The sun was nearly gone, crickets and frogs being heard around the lake as well as a few loons.

The talking simmered when the group heard the sliding door slowly opening, they all snapped their heads over to see the familiar girl's face appear.

She looked like she was fresh out of the shower, her hair damp and face free of makeup as she shut the door behind her.

She was wearing a pair of gray sweats and a UMich Hockey sweatshirt, one that looked like it might've been Luke's that she took a while ago.

Her hands were hiding in the big sleeves of the sweater as she walked down to join them, some of the boys letting frowns form on their faces as they see her face still puffy from the night before.

They all snap out of their frowns when her eyes rise up to look at them with the fakest smile Luke had ever seen on her.

"There's my favorite girl." Jack is the first to speak up warmly, wrapping her up in his arms as she went and sat down. All the other boys warmly greeted and cheered when she sat down, Y/N smiling at them as she took a deep breath.

"I made you one," Trevor says as he hands her one of his famous s'mores. She looks over at him.

"How'd you know?" she asks, and he shrugs with a wink.

"I told you, I've got that twin telepathy." Trevor jokes in a cocky tone, earning an amused look from the girl before she thanks him and blows him a kiss.

"See? Y'all see that? I got a kiss before you guys!" he sings out, making all the guys groan and swat at him as he does a funny little dance.

"I take it back." Y/N says, earning an awestruck Trevor.

"No take-backsies!" he pouts before going to sit back in his spot.

Her eyes never met Luke's, the boy silently begging for her to look at him just once. She never did.

The group all kept on their conversations, trying to distract from the obvious tension going on as they all didn't want to make Y/N anymore uncomfy than she probably felt.

Luke tried hard not to get jealous or annoyed at Jack or Trevor when they would be close to Y/N, as he knew they were only doing it to make her smile and feel better. He just couldn't help but feel that way as he wished it was him making her that way.

But he was the reason she wasn't smiling. Why her face was puffy. So he deserved that at payback. He deserved way worse to be honest.

As the night began to near its end, each boys lowly trailed their ways inside, Y/N and Luke being the last two to be sitting near the fire. Y/N wanted to enjoy the night, as bonfires were something that made her feel anchored and helped her decompress.

Luke kept his distance, only staying on the left side of her across the fire. His eyes hadn't really left her figure the entire night.

At that moment he decided he couldn't wait any longer. The suspense was killing him slowly. So he cleared his throat, watching as she didn't move a muscle.

"Um," he squeaks out. "You-you can take my bed tonight. If you want. I-I know you usually can't sleep without a fan, a-and that you prefer my bed because it helps elevate your back." he stutters out quietly.

Y/N keeps her gaze on the fire, and just nods. Luke feels his chest tighten.

He clears his throat once again.

"I-I um," he starts once more. "I just wanted to say that I'm sorry-"

Y/N stands up before he can finish, soon walking away from the fire.

He watches her walk away in silence, watching as she disappears back inside the house. Luke lets out a shaky sigh, before standing up himself and using the pot of water next to the pit to put out the fire before soon making his way back up to the house himself.

When he reaches his room, he prays that she took his offer, the boy wanting to use the excuse of grabbing pajamas in case she was in there.

His bed was empty.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next day came by quicker than expected, and Luke was feeling at a loss.

Y/N had been ignoring him all day.

He had gotten up before the sun, went and picked up her favorite flowers, coffee and protein iced tea she loves, as well as her favorite bagel spot. He had even drove across town to get her the coffee grounds from a cafe that donates used coffee grounds to use for gardening, as he knows she loves using them when she does her planting at the lakehouse for Ellen and herself.

When she had come down that morning to get herself some breakfast, her face had contorted into all kinds of reactions.

Shock, awe, happiness, confusion, sadness and then nothing. It turned into nothing when she saw Luke creep in and giving her a look of hope.

She didn't acknowledge him once, but he knew he had gotten to her as she did indulge in the breakfast, coffee and iced tea he got her.

That was when Luke knew he had a chance to get her back.

Until the rest of the day had gone on.

She so much as did not look his way, acknowledge anything that had to do with him. She acted as if he didn't exist. Luke didn't know what to do. He couldn't talk to her as she wouldn't even try and be near him.

She either stuck to Jack or Cole's side for the day.

The evening was far from over too, and Luke was just ready to go to bed in that moment.

Especially now.

They were currently out at one of the dive bar clubs in the area, the music was loud and the place was packed.

Which also meant that Y/N was drunker than a sailor on a pirate ship.

She had been dancing and singing loudly to any and all of the songs, having any of the boys come dance with her as time went on. Luke stayed in his spot at the bar by Quinn, who looked very amused by her actions as she was spun around by Trevor.

"Have you gotten to talk to her yet?" Quinn says over the loud music.

Luke shook his head with a pout. "She's acting as if I don't exist."

Quinn uses his lips. "Do you blame her? You broke her heart. Especially after you said you'd never do that."

Luke huffs. "Yeah I know."

"Keep trying. That's all I'll say. You still have a shot. I know deep down she wants you to keep fighting."

"I'm trying. But she makes it so hard."

"She's worth it though?" Quinn trails off, and Luke thinks for a second. He then nods.

"Yeah. Yeah she is."

Trevor then runs up to them, drunkenly stumbling around as he reaches them. "Y/N disappeared outside. I think she's throwing up. I would go get her, but I'm not too far behind her." he says before disappearing back into the crowd.

Luke looks over at Quinn before he makes his way outside, eyes scanning for the familiar figure and spots her over at the corner by the bushes and hunched over.

He scurries over to her, using his good arm to caress her back as she throws up. He then takes her hair as best as he can with the one hand, and holds it back.

When she finishes dry heaving she turns and does a double take when she sees it's Luke.

She stumbles a little as she tries to push him away. "No, I don't want you." she slurs, dry heaving once more.

"Y/N stop focus on getting this out of your system right now. Quinn is coming with water." he says, and she shakes her head trying to get away from his grasp.

She forget that he still has a hold on her hair, and he gently pulls on it to keep her in her place. "You can hate me the most tomorrow, but I'm not letting you pass out after dry heaving for ten minutes. So it's me or the concrete."

"I choose the concrete."

"Y/N"

She drunkenly giggles at her comment, only to be stopped as she starts throwing up again. Luke keeps her hair back, his eyes looking back to see Quinn coming up with the bottled water.

He hands it to his younger brother. "I'm going to grab the boys and the car. I'll be back." he says before jogging back inside.

Once Y/N finishes her second round, she tries to stand straight but wobbles in the process. Luke is quick to catch her, only almost failing as his sling holds his bad arm back from fully being able to stabilize her.

He makes a dumb decision, but in that moment he was more focused on her.

He takes off his sling and lets it fall to the ground, Y/N watching the action and pout when she sees his sling fall to the ground. She points at it. "Your sling. You shouldn't be taking that off." she slurs out with a hiccup.

He shakes his head. "Not my concern right now, I'm more focused on keeping you upright. I don't need you passing out on me again." he tries to lighten the mood, only getting a scowl from her.

"Okay tough crowd." he mumbles, looking behind them to see any sign of Quinn.

"I'm serious-" she hiccups "put it back on. You can't have that off." she hiccups again as she bends down to try and get it.

"Y/N dammit leave it. I'll deal with my dumb decisions tomorrow."

"Like you other decision you made two days ago?"

His heart sinks at her words, seeing her eyes become big as she looks up at him. "Y/N look," he starts. "I'd love to have this conversation, and tell you how much I regret saying those things to you, but I want you sober for that. I'm not going to take advantage when you are probably seeing two of me."

"Hey! How'd you know that? Do you have my vision or something?" she whines, and he rolls his eyes trying to not laugh at her.

Before he knows it, Quinn is pulling around the corner to meet them. Luke brings her up to his car when he parks it, Quinn rushing up to grab her and he frowns at Luke as he looks down at his empty shoulder.

"Dude what are you doing? Put that back on!"

"I will, chill alright? I was more focused on trying to make sure she didn't fall face first onto the pavement." he says as he goes to grab the sling and carefully put it back on, trying to ignore the burning pain going up and down his collarbone.

It was a quiet ride home, as most of the drunk ones were already sleeping, the others just tired from the day they've had.

Once they were pulled into the driveway, Quinn hops out and goes to grab Y/N while Jack and Cole who are both not super drunk but are definitely past being buzzed, grab Trevor.

"Put her in my bed. I'm sleeping on the couch." Luke says to Quinn when they get inside. Instead of arguing, he nods and brings her up the stairs.

Luke follows behind, needing to go and grab some pajamas and his painkillers for the night. Once Quinn has set her in bed, Luke goes to turn on the fan for her watching as she snuggles closer into his sheets.

"She loves you still, you know." Quinn says softly, making Luke turn towards his eldest brother.

Luke gives him a pursed smile and nods, getting the same action back from Quinn before he leaves.

The blond boy slowly, and painfully, changes into a pair of sweats before going over to his bed to grab his pillow only to freeze when he sees Y/N's eyes looking up at him.

"You okay?" he asks.

"You hate when I ask you that, so don't ask me that." she snaps, her words still slurring.

He nods slowly. "I deserve that."

"You deserve a lot worse."

"Yes I do."

She stares at him, her eyes squinting at him as she watches him slowly try to take off his sling for bed. She doesn't miss the way his face winces at the pain he is definitely feeling after what he did.

"Where are you going?" she asks as she watches him head for his door. He points at it. "Downstairs. I'm going to go and sleep downstairs. Give you your space."

"Stay." she says, making him frown.

"Please." she slurs out softly, watching him fight with his mind. She watches as he slowly walks back over and cautiously gets into his side of the bed just incase she changes her mind.

"Just keep your distance." she says quickly and he nods.

"I know."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning Luke was hurting like a bitch.

He tried his best to not wince and hiss when he woke up, not wanting to awaken the girl next to him.

When he finally got out of bed and down he stairs, he saw Quinn and Jack both in the kitchen talking. Jack was sitting on one of the barstools while Quinn was putting together breakfast.

They both looked over when they heard him coming in, seeing him hold his sling out signaling he needed help putting it on.

"That was a dumb move you made." Quinn says, and Luke rolls his eyes.

"Yeah well I was more concerned for her than I was about my arm. I'll live." he shoots back, thanking Jack as he finishes adjusting it for Luke.

"What happened?" Jack asks.

"Y/N was at her throwing up point where she can't end to pass out from dry heaving too much," Luke says before pouring himself a cup of coffee. "So I took my sling off and kept her upright instead of letting her faceplate straight into the concrete."

Jack hums. "You're a dumbass," he starts. Luke chuckles dryly as he goes to sit down next to Jack. "But proud of you." he says before taking a bite of his waffles and standing up, patting the boy on his back.

"I'm off. I'm meeting Sammy for a farmer's market run this morning. So I'll be back around one." he says, putting his place in the sink and then heading towards the front door.

Quinn nods. "I'll be leaving shortly too. Trev and Cole are still sleeping. I think Duker and I are gonna go take up some ice time for a bit." he says, and Luke nods.

Y/N soon comes strolling in, still in her dress from the night before and her hair in a bun as she is squinting her eyes.

She goes to grab a cup of coffee, Quinn handing her a plate of food as she stand over by him at the island. "How you feeling champ?" he giggles, and she huffs.

"Not great. But not dying. I more so just have a headache right now. I think I got most of it out of my system last night." she explains with a dry laugh, taking a sip of her coffee.

Quinn laughs, before finishing up his breakfast. He goes over and kisses her head. "Don't kill him today, yeah?" is all he says, making her give him a look before he disappears.

Y/N just stands there, tracing the ring around her cup with her finger as they sat in silence.

Luke was the first to speak.

"There's um," he clears his throat. "There's some liquid IV in the cabinet. It's the berry one." he says, pointing to the cupboard.

She stands there quietly, taking a sip of her coffee and nodding.

Luke sighs. "Can I say more? Or are you going to leave before I can finish?" he asks genuinely.

"I'm debating." she answers back, not meeting his eyes as he keeps his own her figure.

"Well I'l just talk, and if you've had enough then you can walk away. Yeah?"

She says nothing, which then has him proceed.

"I fucked up," he sighs. "I really fucked up. I know that. I honestly wouldn't blame you if you never wanted to talk to me again."

"Again. Debating."

"And that's okay," he says, not wanting to say how much it would hurt him if she chose that. "I really should not make any excuses for what I said. I've just been in so much pain, and at such a breaking point with all of this. I took it out on you when I should not be doing that."

She takes a sip of her coffee, soon taking a bit of her food. He takes that as a sign that she isn't ready to leave just yet.

"I didn't realize how much you were doing until you weren't there. You know what I also realized?"

For the first time, she looks at him.

"I realized all you were trying to do was make this whole healing process easier on me. Not pester me. Or overwhelm me. Or annoy me. It was simply to make sure I was on the right path towards a faster paced healing process to get back on my feet."

"That's all I was trying to do, and have been trying to do Luke. Because I know how you get. You proved my point when you blew up at me like that." she answers in a monotoned voice. Luke nods.

"I know that now. And I'm so grateful for that and for you. Especially after having that realization," he says. "I hated hearing how you haven't slept, and how you have put me first. If anything don't do that again. For my sake. As much as I love you for that, I need you do make sure Y/N is healthy first."

Y/N ears perk up, and she looks at him with a frown. "What did you just say?" she says softly.

Luke furrows his brows. "I need you to put yourself first. Your health."

"You said you love me."

Luke's eyes widen, and his heart freezes. He did not even realize he let that come out.

He clears his throat and he feels his ears heat up, seeing her face change slightly. "I um," he squeaks. "Yeah. Yeah I do love you. I think I always have, but after realizing all of this I think it made me realize I loved you more." he admits, his voice shaky as he looks at her.

"Luke."

"I'm serious, Y/N." he says. "I know you hate love bombing, but honestly that slipped out. And I am just going to own it because it's nothing but the damn truth."

Y/N just stands there in disbelief. Luke continues. "I want you to know that I truly and deeply am sorry for saying all of those things. You're not clingy. You're not annoying or a burden or any sort of negative impact on my life." he says, slowly getting closer to her. "If anything I do need you. And I want you as mine and mine only. I don't want any of those stupid guys from last summer to be the type of dates you have this year. I want us to figure our shit out, and I want to give you the proper dates you deserve."

Y/N looks up at Luke. "You've got a lot of making up to do, Hughes. A lot."

Luke takes a deep breath. "I know. I know I do."

"You broke my heart."

"I know."

"You called me things."

"I did, and I'm sorry for that."

"Yet I love you too."

His eyes could've popped out of his head. "W-What?" he cracks out, and she give him a small smile.

Before he knew what was happening, she flicks his forehead hard and then smacks his cheek. "Ouch, hey!" he says in awe, and she points at him.

"You deserve that," she says. "But I got those out of the way so I could finish with this."

She lightly grabs his jaw and places a chaste kiss on his lips. He groans when she pulls away far too short for his liking.

"No. No more. Because you have a lot of shit to fix first."

"Roger that."

"I love you."

"I love you too, and I will spend the rest of my life proving it."

[itsjusthockey]

Off The Record - Luke Hughes

Just kidding it ended up being happy instead of angsty

You’re welcome for saving your heart from breaking

But the angst is coming

Hope you enjoy

Don’t forget to request and interact ♥️

w.c: 2,876 (credit to gif maker)(don’t steal my work)

Luke Hughes is a shy guy. He hates interviews, media days, and, above all else, talking about himself, especially about his performance in a game.

The questions are almost always stupid, most pointing out his flaws and where he could have done better. Or else it’s the flip side, and they’re about a good performance. Either way, good or bad, the questions are still dumb.

How did you make that move? How did you get the jump on the opposing team? How did that you score off of that?

He didn’t know the answers to any of them. He didn’t know how he did anything; he just did it.

He first noticed his distaste for after-game interviews very early into his rookie season, and his irritation has grown gradually since then. There really is only one thing that makes the whole process slightly more manageable: you.

You’re a media intern, usually lurking in the back of the press, hiding away and typing on a little iPad you’re always carrying around. Of course, he noticed you before then. You were stunning, and it was hard not to, but what really got him interested was how your humor seemed to align perfectly with him.

The first interaction he’d had with you was after a rough game for him, where the GM all but dragged his ass out to media and instructed him to do his best. Everyone could tell that he was sweaty, hungry, and overall done with the day. He tried his best not to be an asshole, but the questions were getting the best of him. After a partiality terrible one, he’d let slip a sarcastic remark that had a few eyes widen, but at that back, only half visible, you’d snorted. Full-on snorted out a laugh.

You tried to recover, quickly silencing yourself and shirking away from the slight glares of the older media personnel, but Luke knew from that moment on that he’d do pretty much anything to hear that laugh again.

That was months ago, and now you’re both stuck here.

You really like Luke, you do, but you also really like your job. While you knew of attractive players before ever attempting to be employed, you did consider yourself above that temptation. You prided yourself on not being distracted and being the best at your job, but things have gotten progressively more complex, and he isn’t making it easy on you.

No, you didn’t get the job to be close to Luke Hughes or any other player; it just ended up being that he was a bonus.

A bonus is that he is really, really good at getting under your skin.

It’s a media day extravaganza, and while you’ve been excited about this day for weeks, you’re dreading every interaction you’ll have with him. A week ago, just seven days, you’d told him to stop chasing you. Word had spread about your relationship, and when your boss got wind of it, she very quickly explained that fraternization is not tolerated, and she hoped that what she’d heard was just silly rumors. They weren’t, but you weren’t about to let her know that, so you lied. You said there was definitely an attraction between you and Luke, but nothing was inappropriate or anything to worry about. She seemed unconvinced, but you, being her favorite of the media, think she just let it slide.

That night, still a bit shaken from the conversation, you let Luke into your apartment and immediately pushed him away when he leaned in to kiss you.

You held his hand as you sat him down, explaining the new situation. You thanked him for the laughs, the nights, and everything good he’d made you feel, but alas, your little relationship has ended because while you really like him, you cannot waste an opportunity such as this by getting fired.

He was understanding in the moment, nodding at the correct times and humming in approval when you’d said certain things. However, you saw it the second you’d spilled your guts, the flash of betrayal in his eyes that told without speaking how hurt he was.

You tried to explain that you could be friends, but you knew it was useless, so you just said goodbye instead.

Now, here you are. His stare is burning holes into your skull seven days later.

You’re ignoring him, strategically placing yourself everywhere he isn’t, and focusing on every other player who isn’t him. He notices this immediately, and it makes him pretty pissy.

No one nods why Luke is in such a mood, and a few media team members point it out during a little break. None of them seem to be the wiser of you being the reason; if they do, they’re keeping it to themselves.

In a moment of weakness, you flash your stare to Luke. You’re standing across the room from him at the snack table, and when you finally meet his gaze, he rolls his eyes at you and looks away.

“Healthy thing you’ve got going on there.” Marcie, a fellow intern, says before popping a grape in her mouth.

“Tell me about it.”

Marcie is one of two people who know the true extent of your relationship with Luke. She’s sworn to secrecy and won’t admit openly to any knowledge of your situation, but just like everyone else, she’s curious.

“I thought you said he took it well?”

You huff a bit. “I thought he did.”

Clearly, he didn’t, and now he was punishing you with mean glares.

“How’s everything looking so far?”

Micheal, the last intern and second keeper of your secret, interrupts your conversation, clapping hard on your shoulder as he walks up to you.

“Did you take pictures of anyone else besides Luke?”

The look he throws is cocky, annoying, and teasing. You glare and roll your eyes at him, completely ignoring his question.

“I’ll take that answer as disassociation. Which is better than panic about getting fired.”

You snort, and before you can clap back, your Marcie leans over you toward Micheal.

“It’s also better than anger.”

She throws you a wink, and you angrily pop a grape in your mouth, chewing wildly.

“Will being angry make you both leave me alone?” You ask.

You dart your stare between them, and their bright smiles tell you they’re teasing you and trying to make you feel better about the situation.

A voice calling out your full name has you snapping out of the conversation. Your boss hurriedly gestures for you to come, and you do, leaving your snickering friends behind.

“What can I do for you?”

You shouldn’t have asked because now you’re sitting in a small room with a cameraman, getting ready to ask Luke and Jack Hughes some important questions.

You’re twitching in your seat, waiting for the cameraman to give the okay. He’s had to fix the lights and adjust the audio, so he instructed you all to sit tight for a few moments. You’re doing so, and the awkward silence is killing you.

What's worse, you and Luke look like you’re both searching for an escape route, and Jack has never looked happier.

You know Jack knows about your relationship, but for the past few months, he has chosen to ignore that he knows, which was probably better for everyone. But now, he seems to have let the idea of being discreet go.

“Isn’t this fun?” He asks, clearly directing the question at both of you.

You’re about to answer before Luke beats you to it.

“Not really.”

Luke’s blunt response causes Jack to snicker, and you can’t help but crack a small smile. You feel the tension break just a little, your instincts pulling you back into the groove of things.

You glance back at Luke, your gaze lingering just a moment longer than you intended. He doesn’t meet your eyes, but there’s a slight twitch of his lips, as if he's trying to hold back his own grin.

Before you can say anything to respond, the cameraman gives a thumbs-up, signaling you’re about to start, and the camera will begin rolling. Just as he does, your boss strides in, slightly out of breath, looking like she’s had one too many cups of coffee.

“Alright, let’s get this done!” she says, quickly taking her seat. You can feel the heat of Luke’s gaze from across the room, but this time, it doesn’t sting quite as much.

The interview goes off mostly without a hitch. You manage to keep your voice steady, to ask all the right questions, and even banter lightly with Jack—who’s clearly enjoying the show, and doing his best to toe the line between playful brother and full-on menace. Luke, on the other hand, keeps it short and professional. His answers are clipped, his tone dry, and he avoids your eyes the entire time.

When it’s over, you thank them both, and your boss leaves to pull the next players. You care avoid Luke’s gaze as he rises from his seat. You’re gathering your notes when Jack leans over and mutters something under his breath to his brother that you can’t quite catch—but whatever it is makes Luke sigh heavily. And then Jack smirks at you like he knows something you don’t, claps his brother on the back, and walks off with a wave.

You busy yourself with pretending not to watch Luke leave too, but he doesn’t. Not right away.

You can feel him behind you, his presence raising bumps on your arms.

“Can we talk?”

You don’t turn around at first. You shouldn't. But you do.

“Luke…” you start, already shaking your head. “We talked. I told you—”

“I know what you told me,” he cuts in, voice low but not angry. “And I get it. I do. I’m not trying to get you fired. I’ve been trying really, really hard not to do anything that would make things harder for you.”

You swallow, guilt pooling in your stomach. He looks tired. Not the post-game tired, but something deeper, something worn.

“But I’m not going to pretend I don’t care about you,” he continues. “I tried that. I thought if I gave you space, if I didn’t push, it’d help. But it didn’t. It sucks. It really sucks seeing you and not being able to talk to you like I used to.”

You glance toward the open door, heart pounding. “Luke, you can't just say stuff like this in here.”

“I know,” he says again, nodding. “That’s why I’m telling you I’m going to talk to my GM.”

Your stomach drops. “What?”

“I’m not going to stay quiet about this. About us. If something’s going to happen—if they’re going to fire you for liking me—then I’d rather know now. I’d rather take the hit than keep pretending I don’t want to be with you.”

Your mouth opens, but no sound comes out. He looks at you with the same intensity that made you fall for him in the first place—quiet, sure, unwavering.

“I’m not asking you to do anything,” he says softly. “I’m just telling you I’m not going to keep pretending I’m okay with losing you.”

You stare at him, breath shallow, your mind torn between panic and a rush of something dangerously close to hope.

“Luke…” you whisper.

“I’ll be outside when you’re done,” he says, backing away toward the door. “I’m not going far.”

And then he leaves, the door swinging closed behind him with a soft click, leaving you in silence—with your heart in your throat, and your future suddenly, terrifyingly, cracked wide open.

You don’t wait to see him talk to the GM. The moment Luke walks out, you practically sprint in the opposite direction, muttering something about needing to handle a last-minute edit and ducking past Michael and Marcie before they can stop you with more questions. The moment you step outside into the cool evening air, you can finally breathe—but it’s shallow, uneven, like you’re waiting for something to drop from the sky and crush you flat.

You don’t go to the café down the street or your favorite library corner like you usually do to clear your head. You go home. And once you’re home, you pace. You walk loops around your apartment like a lunatic, chewing your bottom lip raw and replaying Luke’s words over and over again in your head.

I’m going to talk to my GM

You want to be mad at him—for making this harder, for not just letting things go. But mostly, you’re just terrified. Terrified of what it could cost him. What it could cost you.

You're halfway into changing into sweats when your phone buzzes on the counter. You freeze when you see the name.

Boss

A tiny, horrified part of you thinks, well, this is it. You answer on the third ring.

“Hello?” you say, your voice trying—and failing—to sound casual.

“Hey,” your boss replies, her tone brisk but not icy. “Can you talk for a second?”

You practically trip over your words. “Y-Yeah. Of course. Did I… do something wrong?”

There’s a pause on the other end. Then a breath, and a softer tone than you expect.

“No. You didn’t do anything wrong. But I just had a very persistent Luke Hughes in my office as well as the GM.”

Your heart flatlines.

“He said he needed to come to me personally,” she continues, “and he explained everything. He was calm, respectful, and extremely adamant that whatever’s going on between you two was real. That it mattered. And more importantly—he told me he’s willing to deal with any fallout himself if it meant protecting you and your job.”

You blink rapidly, unsure if you're dreaming. “He… did that?”

“Yes,” she says. “And I’m not going to lie, I still don’t love the idea of interns and players dating. But I’ve also never seen a hockey player—let alone a Hughes—walk in and advocate for someone like that. So here’s the deal.”

You sit down on your bed, heart in your throat.

“You two can date. You’re still on the team’s media staff. You still have your job. But keep it clean. No PDA in the locker room, no sneaking off during press events. Keep it professional while you’re working. Can you do that?”

You nod so fast your teeth rattle. “Yes. Yes, absolutely. I swear.”

“Good,” she says. “And for the love of God, don’t make me regret this.”

You thank her about a hundred times, heart pounding with a different kind of adrenaline now, and hang up with shaky hands. You barely have time to think before you’re scrolling through your phone and pressing Luke’s name. He picks up on the second ring.

“Hey,” he says, quiet, almost cautious. “Did you hear?”

Your breath hitches. “I did. Luke… I don’t even know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” he replies. “I meant what I said. I wasn’t going to lose you. I just had to try.”

There’s a lump in your throat, and you press your hand to your chest, steadying yourself. “You’re kind of insane, you know that?”

He chuckles softly. “Yeah, and you love that about me.”

You do. God, you really do.

“Come over,” you whisper. “Please. Just…come here.”

“I’m already in the car,” he says, and you can hear the smile in his voice. “Be there in ten.”

[pkochetkov]

Matt Rempe 1. “Make it fit” Please or childhood best friends to lovers ;)

[smut] so big

pairing: matt rempe x fem!reader

summary: you want matty, all of him

authors note! inspo from this video. it is twt porn so be warned. this is also unedited bc i like lost the plot and then refound it idk

warning: smut, size kink, swear words, mentions of pain during intercourse, p in v, unprotected sex, begging. lmk if i missed any!

masterlist!

el's return to tumblr celly!

you and matt have been dating for a few months now, and you’ve done just about everything. except have sex. no matter how much you begged and pleaded with the man, he would not budge on his firm no. 

it wasn’t that matt found you unattractive, or didn’t wanna have sex with you. god, his mouth told you the exact opposite everytime his tongue glides over your cunt. he didn’t wanna hurt you. 

matt was very aware of his size, you were very aware of his size. after all, the length had to match the height, and that was matt’s biggest worry. you weren’t the smallest of girls, but compared to him? you stood no chance. or so he thought. 

you had a plan, though. you wanted him, all of him, and tonight was the night. 

matt had a day off between practices and games and had been gaming all day. you didn’t complain, it gave you more than enough time to plan how you’d actually make it happen. 

you walked on light feet into his gaming room, very careful to not get picked up on his mic. he didn’t mind if you were in here, loved it actually, but you assumed he didn’t want the guys to hear what he was about to fall victim to. 

you crept over to him, giving his head a kiss when you were within reach. matt turned to look at you and brought his large hand up to cover his mic, 

“what ya doin?” 

you gave him a sly smile and uttered a quiet “nothing” before falling to your knees and climbing under his desk. he gave you a stern look, but the way he licked his lips and lifted his hips when you grabbed hold of his sweats told you something else. 

your hand wrapped around his length, just barely covering the girth of it. you ran a thumb against the spot you knew always got him hard almost instantly, before pulling away to spit in your hand.  

the saliva added a slickness that helped you easily glide over the man’s length. matt let out a sigh above you, it mixing into the ramblings of his teammates and not coming to attention. 

you gave him a few more strokes before taking the tip into your mouth and sucking, causing a sharp “oh fuck” to leave the brunettes lips and his knees to jerk toward the top of his desk. he quickly muted his mic, bringing one of his hands down to stroke the side of your face before threading his fingers into your hair and pulling you off of him. 

“let me finish this match, baby, then i promise i’ll take care of you.” you pouted at his words and moved to sit on his lap, his cock rubbing against your folds. his eyes darkened at the feeling of your bare cunt against him. 

“but matty, i want you now,” you paused and stared straight into his eyes while grabbing his length in your hand and lined it up to your entrance, “all of you.”

you finished your sentence by sinking down onto his tip, hissing at the way he stretched you. matt’s head fell back, headset falling to the floor, and his hands gripped at your waist, “don’t wanna hurt you.”

“please. needed you in me all day.” he looked unsure at your words, “are you sure you can take it? it might be too big for you, hun.” you whined at his words, “it’ll fit. just fuck me.” 

the man picked you up, pulling out what little bit of his length was in you, and walked you both over to the bed. he laid you on your stomach and pushed your face down into the mattress, “as much as i’d love to see your face when i went in all the way, it’ll be easier this way. i need you to promise me you’ll let me know if it’s too much.”

“i promise matty, swear it. just please- please fuck me.” he complied with your words, stroking his cock a few times before sliding into you, very slowly. you let out a high-pitched moan, the stretch slightly burning your cunt. 

“oh fuck- you’re so so tight.” matt threw his head back, taking deep breaths to not cum too early. he bottomed out and stayed for a few moments, giving you a chance to fully adjust to his length. it didn’t take long, as you began fucking yourself onto him. moans of his name spilled from your mouth and this is something he’d have on his mind forever. he knew it.

he grabbed onto your back to stop your hips from moving and pulled his length out nearly to the tip before shoving it back into you, you moaning every time he hit that spot deep inside of you. you swore you could feel him in your ribs. he sped up his thrusts, your moans getting louder and more frequent the faster and harder he went. he thrusted a few more times before pulling out of you fully, causing you to whine but it didn’t last for long.

matt grabbed you and flipped you onto your back and was hammering inside of you before you could fully complain about missing him. this view was truly erotic. your face becoming more fucked out, eyes rolling back and mouth wide open. matt couldn’t take his eyes off himself going in and out of your cunt, a ring of cum collecting around the base of his cock. his eyes drifted up and spotted something that truly made him nearly come undone. 

“look baby. you see that?” you lifted your head and looked down. your stomach bulged every time he slid in. you could see him, his cock, poking up with every manic thrust the man above you gave. you nearly came at the sight, but you really started to feel the knot when matt placed his hand over where is cock was bulging out and applied pressure. 

“oh fuck matty, not gonna last long.” matt’s hair fell in front of his eyes and he leaned over you to go even harder. he brought the hand from your stomach down to your clit and rubbed his thumb over the nerves. your vision went black, and your body began to shake harder than ever before. matt’s orgasm was very shortly behind yours, sped up by the feeling of you squeezing around him. 

he pulled out and came on your stomach, falling to the side of you, chest heaving with heavy breaths. he looked at your face and saw nothing but pure bliss. your eyes were still closed, a small smile on your face. you laid like that for a few more seconds before turning to matt,

“round 2?”

[hiddencloudboi]

🔞 18+ only MDNI 🔞

Despite knowing good and damn well that he's fucking 6'3 and 200 something pounds of hockey beefcake, that's not gonna stop boyfriend!Matthew Knies from trying to fuck boyfriend reader in a car. It goes about as well as you'd expect.

"Fuck – Matt! This isn't working," you finally say, rubbing the back of your head after bonking it for the fifth time in as many minutes. For the life of you, you couldn't fathom why your man thought the back of your Subaru was the perfect place to do this.

Pulling back, which resulted in him yet again hitting his head on the roof, Matthew winced. His considerable bulk takes up most of the space. "We can make it work, baby. I just gotta ‐ "

You raised an eyebrow while looking up at him. "What, Matty? Tell me how you plan on fucking me without giving both of us concussions."

Matthew's expression can best be described as sad puppy. You sigh, placing a hand on his chest to gently push him back so you can climb onto his lap, feeling his erection pressing against the softness of your ass.

"I wanna rip your clothes off too, Matty. But my car isn't the best place for that. I'm not explaining to your coach why you can't play in the next game."

@gayaristocrat @starboye @b00tyliciousbabe @multireese

[toplurker]

“mine forever”

reader x macklin celebrini

when the sharks win, you and macklin know the perfect way to celebrate after going out with some of his teammates

cw: p in v (protected) lowkey a little dom!mack, cursing (?) nsfw!

✧˚ · . . · ˚✧

macklin exhales shakily as your hands run down his bare chest, your legs on either sides of his hips. “fuck,” he whispers, his voice uneven and shaky. his hands rest on your thighs with a slight grip, but you can feel it grow tighter and tighter as the seconds go on.

“hmm?” you ask lowly, eyes meeting his, tilting your head slightly. his eyes dart around the room before darting around various parts of your body covered by a satin blue dress, hugging you in just the right places. when he finally meets your eyes, he swallows hard, his cheeks heating up. “it’s just- you’re- you look,” he says, voice quieter than normal and slightly husky. you can feel his bulge grow even more under you as he thinks for words, his eyes looking down towards your thighs around him. “astonishing,” he finally says, meeting your eyes again, before looking towards your lips.

“is that so?” you ask, your attention now on your hands as they slowly glide from his collarbones down to his nipples, moving towards his chest, and running overtop of his abs, feeling the hard and defined muscles. your hands stop at his belt, bringing your eyes back to his eyes. you can feel the patch of wetness in your thin panties growing. his lips push against yours, and he lets out a soft whimper as you tilt your head slightly, tongue meeting his briefly before he pulls back as you trace his belt.

macklin lets a soft groan out as he shifts a little, lifting both of your bodies up slightly before settling back down into the couch. “yeah,” he says, voice tight. his hands slowly move up to rest on your waist. “such a pretty girl,” he murmurs, hands roaming around your torso. your body presses into his more and more and you can feel heat growing between your thighs further and further.

macklins body responds the same as yours, feeling him get tenser. you hear him mumble something but you can’t quite understand it. “speak up macky,” you say softly, hands gently fiddling with his belt. his eyes dart to yours, though yours don’t meet his. “all mine,” he says, his voice a little firm but still quiet. his hands move from your waist down to your thighs, gripping tighter.

your hands slowly fiddle with the buckle, before finally unclamping it. your eyes lock onto his as you undo his button painfully slowly, feeling macklin grow more and more. “you’re killing me,” he says, his voice low, growing raspier by the moment. you respond with a shrug, grabbing a hold of his zipper, slowly undoing it. macklin whimpers, tensing uncomfortably, still for a few moments before grabbing a hold of your hips, flipping you two around, you ending up underneath his body.

“can’t take it anymore,” he murmurs, shaking his head. with one arm he holds himself up over you, the other reaches into his pocket, grabbing a condom, but leaving it in his hand as he undoes his zipper fully, pulling them down with his one hand to around his knee, kicking them off, while he places the condom between his teeth, ripping it. his boxers are next to go, his boner hitting his stomach from the speed of which he removes his underwear.

macklin never fails to make you nervous with his size, and you feel butterflies grow in your stomach. precum leaks from his tip, slowly rolling down his shaft. your hands move to caress his collar bones and shoulders, moving back and forth, before resting one hand on his shoulder, the other on the side of his neck. he rolls the condom on before turning his attention to you.

“teasin’ too much,” he says, shaking his head. he pulls one strap off your shoulder, doing the same to the other, and shimmying it upwards off your body. “jesus,” he says, being greeted with you braless, before he turns his attention to your soaked panties. his eyes stay locked onto the sight between your thighs, almost at a loss for words. “shit, all f’me huh?” he says finally, meeting your eyes.

“only you macky,” you whisper, causing a whimper to escape him. he pulls them off you swiftly, lining himself up, circling your dripping hole. “pretty girl, he says, slowly filling you up, pressing his lips onto your shoulder. you both let out a hiss as he bottoms out, your chests hitting each other. your hands reach for his shoulders, holding pretty tight.

he waits a few moments, his forehead resting on yours, your breaths both heavy. his forehead moved to rest on your shoulder, head tilted down to where your bodies meet. he moves to kiss your shoulder before placing his forehead back, slowly pulling out before pushing back in slowly. you pulse around him as he moves at a slow pace. “shit- your- your soaked,” he breaths out, a breathy chuckle escaping. you whimper as he picks up the pace, stretching you out further and further.

your breaths pick up faster and faster, the room filled with sounds of breathing and sounds of your bodies meeting, and slight squelching. “mine,” he spits out, voice tight. “no one else’s,” he adds, his voice low and husky. he picks up his pace and small sweat beads start to grow on his forehead. you let out a breathy moan as he moves a hand to your hip, gripping onto you. you feel his tip hit that sweet spongy spot inside of you and the feeling makes you weak.

your hands make their way to his back, your nails digging into him as he ups his pace, your moans growing louder and the whimpers and groans coming from macklin only continue to become more frequent. his hips start to snap into yours, your nails running down his back. “fuck, i-i’m not lasting much longer,” he breathes out with a groan. his movements become sloppier and you start to move your hips into his, matching him searching for more. “i’m close,” you say with a loud whine. your legs wrap around his waist, feet connecting at his lower back, and it allows him to hit new spots, going even deeper and hitting your g-spot even more.

his head hovers above you, admiring you, and your head tucks into his neck. your an absolute mess, eyes rolling back and body arching into his. “oh my g-” you whimper, feeling that familiar knot form in your stomach. “shit,” macklin says with a moan, and you can tell by how fast he’s moving he’s close. his free hand comes down between your bodies, his thumb tracing fast circles over your clit, his other hand holding him up above you.

“g-gonna cum,” you manage out, legs tightening around him. you feel that knot pulling right in your lower belly before it snaps, and your digging so hard into macklin with your nails you wouldn’t be surprised if you drew blood. “macklin!” you cry out as you release, juices covering macklins length. he continue to pound into your cunt before you feel his actions falter, and he spills into the condom. “fuckkkk,” he groans out with a slight whimper. he rides out his high until he pulls out suddenly, causing you to inhale sharply. he tosses the filled condom in the trash before he collapses on top of you, and broken whimpers escape him as you attempt to catch your breath.

“mine forever,” he says, pressing kisses along your chest, and you simply just wrap your arms across his shoulders, your legs knotting with his.

⋆ ˚｡⋆౨ৎ˚

ok period first smut lowkey trash but trust guys i will get better

ty for reqs and i will try to do more!!

[neon-medusae]

The Canucks shut out the Maple Leafs in Toronto!

[patosduck]

No because this touched me in a spiritual level

[hockeyboi]

CONNOR BEDARD | Hyundai Canada commercial

[cryinginthedeep]

and you taught me a lot stretched and wrung and tossed i'm sorry we got lost

matthew tkachuk & johnny gaudreau x "paths" by niki

[rubywingsracing]

“darling

the moon

is still the moon

in all of its phases”

- isra al-thibeth | on becoming

Not really sure what I’m on tonight but here’s more celestial hughes brothers w/ poetry

(yes I’ve already started Jack as the sun but I should probably sleep 😅)

This one is for Quinn Hughes’ freakiest fan @formulanni hehe 😜

[buckysb1tch]

the hughes pout

[bluewxrld07]

Lifeline (Jack Hughes)

Summary: Jack has Y/N take his car to his game. What happens when she gets caught up in a serious accident?

Warning(s): Flangst, serious car accident, serious injuries, anxiety attacks, detailed injury description

"Jack where are my shoes?" Y/N calls out, touching up her makeup in the bathroom before shutting off the light.

"I think I put them in the hallway closet!" he says back from his bedroom. She searches through the pile of shoes, finally finding the pair she was looking for and letting out a satisfied sigh.

Jack pops out of the bedroom while buttoning his jacket, adjusting the beanie on his head before straightening out his suit. He walked towards her, placing his hands on her hips and giving her a kiss on the cheek as he skims past her to slip his own shoes on.

"You still fine to take my car?" he asks, and she nods with a hum

"Do I just show them the pass when I get to the gate?"

"Yeah they know you're coming, I made sure to keep them aware you'd be in my car." he adds, making her nod as she walks back to his bedroom to go put her jewelry on.

She stands in front of the mirror while putting her earrings in.

"Okay," Jack announces, quickly walking into his room and coming to her. He passes her his keys before wrapping her in a hug from behind. "I'm out of here, the guys are downstairs. I'll see you later, yeah?" he asks as he is giving her multiple kisses on her temple, Y/N soon turning her head to capture a couple kisses on the lips.

She smiles up at him. "Aye aye captain." she chuckles, earning a playful eyeroll and a tongue sticking out at her before he leaves the room.

It's another fifteen minutes or so before Y/N is grabbing her purse and Jack's keys, kissing her cat goodbye for the evening and locking the door behind her.

Once she is in the parking garage she unlocks Jack's car, setting his keys back into her purse while opening the driver's side door.

She pushes the button to start it up, letting the car warm up to her liking while she sets her stuff into the passenger seat. As her music soon booms through the speakers she begins to leave the garage as she hums along to the tunes.

The ride was overall quiet and peaceful in her opinion, snow coming down pretty quickly the more downtown she got into New Jersey.

By the time she'd be arriving at the stadium, the boys would be just getting onto the ice for warmups which as perfect timing for her to see Jack as he went back to the locker rooms post warmups.

She made it to the final stoplight just before the arena was in her view, her chest feeling a little less heavy as she always got nervous driving Jack's car.

"It's just a car, baby. I can always buy another one. I can't buy another you." He'd always tell her, which always resulted in her saying she knows how much this car meant to Jack. It was like his baby.

Her light finally turned green, Y/N beginning to turn onto the next road but lets out a gasp as she hears a car horn, and sees headlights getting closer towards the driver's side of Jack's car.

Before she can try to miss the impact, the car hits her side fast and hard. She could feel the car go flying across the intersection and toppling over.

She felt the impact as it hit her, only just barely before her body takes over and everything goes dark.

Meanwhile, Jack and the crew are making their ways back to the locker rooms after finishing warmups all hyped up for the night ahead.

As they're all gettin revved up for the big talk with coach, they all watch him walk into the room with a very serious face. More straight than it usually is.

"The game is being delayed by an hour," he announces, making everyone all hum out responses filled with confusion. Coach raises his arms to silence the team. "There was an accident just by the stoplight. As far as I know, a diesel truck rammed into the driver's side of a bit of a smaller car. The other car has a lot of damage and was hit so hard it rolled and toppled over across the intersection."

All the guys all hummed out in sorrow and understanding, still all buzzing about how long they'd have to actually wait to go out.

Some of the guys threw on their slides before heading out towards the parking garage to see if they could see it from where they were.

Jack and Luke were amongst the few, Luke being further ahead with some of the guys.

The sirens and commotion got louder the closer they got to the edge of the garage, only being to see bits and pieces of it as it looked like it happened just before the turn into the parking garage.

As Jack gets up to be with some of his buddies, a few of the security guars had jogged over to Luke and started saying a few things.

Nico and Dawson were also next to Luke, their faces dropping as they looked at Luke whose face turned white before turning towards Jack then back at the site while running a hand over his mouth waling with the security guards over to the site.

Jack got up closer to the bunch, his eyes squinting and looking over to the crash site.

Nico and Dawson immediately rush up to him before pulling him back. Jack frowns. "What? Why can't I see, what's going on?" he says as he lightly pushes them off of him.

"Jack it's best if you don't go up there." Nico says in a warning tone.

"Why, what's the big deal? Get off!" Jack says as they keep their grips on him.

"Jack don't," Dawson says. Jack glares at them both, confusion taking over his features.

"What the fuck is up with you two?" Jack asks. "What is happening, why did Luke go with them?" he bombards, just before his movements of pushing them off freezes.

His heart falls to his ass as his stomach begins to feel nauseous.

"Don't tell me it's Y/N." he says with a knowing look, and their faces said it all.

Jack immediately fights off their grips harder than he was trying before, running up the street towards the caution tape.

Luke is making his way back quickly, immediately increasing his speed when he sees Jack coming and coming fast. "Jack, no." Luke says with a warning look on his face and pushing him away from the scene.

"Luke you don't want to fucking mess with me right now-"

"You don't want to see this, you need to stay back."

"If you don't get your fucking hands off me, Luke I swear we're going to have bigger issues." he snaps. Jack pushes back at his brother, looking over shoulder and pushing Luke to the side.

He scurries up to the caution tape, his chest becoming heavy as he sees the aftermath. His eyes widening.

There was scrap metal and pieces of the car all over the intersection, skid marks from what he could suspect were his car tires. The giant truck had a few dents and parts missing on the front of it. His eyes followed the skid marks towards where Jack's car was now laying. He felt like it was all in slow motion.

His car was totaled. It was toppled over on its passenger side, the entire driver's side of the car completely demolished.

Y/N was in that car. She felt that impact.

He ran towards the car screaming her name, policemen pushing him back. "No! That's my car, my girlfriend was in that fucking car let me through! Where is she? Where's Y/N? That was my girl in that car dammit! Where is she??" he panics, fighting his way past the officers and running towards the car.

He put a hand over his mouth as he saw the front door was off its hinges, looking as if it had been sawed off. The seat was torn up and didn't look like a seat anymore.

He swear his heart had stopped beating the moment he spotted blood. He saw her purse lying on the broken window of the passenger side.

"Sir you need to step back. This is a crime scene."

He whips his head around with his hands in his hair, tears falling freely from his eyes.

"What happened to her? Where's Y/N? At least fucking tell me my girl is alive!" he screams out, his voice cracking at the end of it.

As the officer was about to speak, someone else's voice came out first. "You said it was your girlfriend in the car?" A firemen behind him announces as he walks up to Jack.

Jack nods eagerly. "Where is she? I need her, I need to see her." he begs.

The firemen purses his lips. "She was just brought away in an ambulance," he starts, watching Jack's face contort into all sorts of emotions. "She was unconscious when we got to her. Her entire left side of her body had been stuck and crammed into the driver's side door. We had to saw the door open to try and get to her." he explains.

Jack swears he could've passed out right then and there.

"Her left leg had been caught in the door the most, so we had to break her leg to get her unstuck. She was in critical condition when we got her out. She was losing a lot of blood." he finishes, Jack breaking out into sobs.

Jack feels his chest getting tight, breathing becoming rapid. Luke wasn't too far behind him, immediately taking his brother into his arms to help him through the panic attack that was going to set in.

"I need to get to her, I need to see her. I need-"

"I know Jack. Let's go, we've gotta go now."

"I never said I loved her before leaving the apartment tonight," Jack gasps out, grabbing at his chest as he tries to slow his breathing.

"You'll get to tell her Jack. Don't think that way." Luke assures, walking his brother back towards the parking garage and the arena.

Luke gives Nico a knowing look, the captain nodding and running inside.

Jack felt everything inside him going numb. All he wanted was Y/N. He wanted her and only her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jack's knee never stopped bouncing.

His legs were spread, elbows on his knees as his head was looking down at his lap.

The doctor has yet to come back with any updates from yet a second surgery she was undergoing. Jack was going insane. He couldn't believe he forgot to tell her he loved her before leaving. Especially the fact he let her drive on her own when he knew she hated driving in the snow.

He felt like it was his fault.

"Jack," Luke's voice says softly, making the brown-haired boy's head snap up fast. He sees the surgeon walking their way, causing Jack to stand and meet him halfway.

"How is she? Is she okay?"

The surgeon takes off his cap and holds it in his hands while pursing his lips. "She lost a lot of blood on her way here. Please keep that in mind with the next things I'm about to tell you," he warns Jack, who nods. "She did flatline twice-"

Jack's lung felt like they were deprived of all air entirely.

"We managed to revive her both times, she was doing well after that. We had to full reset her entire left leg and femur. Her hip bone was completely dislodged from its socket," he explains. "She does have a concussion, and a broken elbow which we did put a screw in there to help piece it back together. But she's a strong woman. She pulled through and is in the recovery wing. She will be wheeled into her room shortly, which I can give you the number to so you can wait for her."

Jack nods eagerly, shaking hands with the surgeon after they finished talking. Jack turns to Luke, bitting his lip to keep it from quivering.

Luke pulled his brother in for a hug, holding him tight as he feels Jack shake quietly in his arms.

Once Jack has calmed down a bit they began to walk towards her room to go sit there until she is wheeled in. Jack was stuck wearing his suit to the hospital, his few top buttons undone and sleeves rolled to his elbows.

The waiting game for Jack was what was the most agonizing. He sat in the spot that would be next to her bed, Luke looking over at Jack every so often in case he broke out into an attack again.

Before they know it the door is slowly being pulled open, nurses heard chattering lightly as Jack stands and watches as they wheel her bed in. His heart broke, but he knew in that moment he needed to be stronger for her.

She had entire cast taking up her whole leg and was partly taking over her hip, as well as a cast over her left elbow. She had a small neck strainer, and some butterfly bandages across her face.

Her eyes were squinting as if she had just woken up not too long ago, her lip busted as well. She tried looking around, only to be met with pain and limited movement in her neck.

Everything ached numbly to her, due to all the medications they had her on. She felt like she was going to throw up if anything.

The nurses began hooking her up to the machines behind her, making sure her IVs were in tact, making sure she was okay and could feel the pressure they were adding into the palm of her hand.

Her eyes opened a bit more and finally caught Jack's eye, making her eyes water and her lip start quivering. Jack stood up immediately as he walked over to her.

He wanted to take her hand so badly in that moment, but couldn't as the nurses were using it to connect her IVs.

"I'm sorry," she whispers, her throat feeling dry and raw. "I'm so sorry Jack. I'm sorry." she began to cry making him bite his lip and shake his head.

"I'm going to go get her some water and ice." Luke says, wanting to give them their alone time as he knew Jack needed that.

Once the nurses were done with her IVs, Jack took her good hand into his and kissed it a million times. He squeezed it tight as he shook his head.

"I'm so glad you're alive. I'm so glad you're okay." he mutters out with a quivering shake in his voice.

"Jack I'm so sorry. I can't believe I ruined your car."

Jack just shook his head and closed his eyes, kissing her hand and keeping it up by his mouth as he stared at her. His eyes glosses over in tears threatening to fall.

"I'm here. I came as soon as I figured it out. I'm so sorry I shouldn't have let you drive in that weather." Jack says.

"Jack your car, I'm sorry. I really-"

"If you bring that fucking car up again I swear I'm going to get pissed off." he interrupts her. She lets her lip quiver.

"But-"

"No. That car is a piece of metal, something easily replaceable," he snaps. "You are not. I don't care about a damn car. I care about the girl I'm supposed to spend the rest of my life with being alive. Not a fucking car, Y/N." he says in a darker tone.

"I just I can't believe that happened. It all happened so fast." she whimpers, Jack sniffling.

"The driver was arrested. He's going away for a while, I can promise you that I will make sure of it." Jack assures, Y/N trying her best to squeeze Jack's hand with what little strength she had.

"Jack what about your game?"

He scoffs and looks at her with a knowing look. "You're funny, pretty."

She furrows her brows. "But it's your biggest rival."

"And? I play them every year, I will see them next season. The love of my life flatlined twice and can't walk. I'm more concerned about her than a game." he says, Y/N just letting out a hum.

"I love you so much," Jack says, kissing her hand again. "I love you. I love you more than anything imaginable."

"I love you too Jack. I'm going to be okay.

"I didn't tell you I love you before I left the apartment. I can't believe I didn't say it."

"Jack stop. Don't blame yourself. This wasn't your fault. I know you do, so don't do that." she assures him, and he just nods.

"I just don't know what I would've done if you were gone," he says. "You're my lifeline. You're who I breathe for, who I live everyday for. I can't imagine you not being here. It killed me when I found out. Nothing else mattered."

Y/N wished she could hug him in that moment. She wished she could hold him tight and tell him everything she knew he needed to hear.

"Jack," she starts. "I'm here. I'm alive. I'm breathing and you can feel my pulse beating. I'm not going to leave you ever." she says, watching his eyes blink away more tears.

"If I did croak, I would've come back to haunt you anyways. So you're stuck with me.

Jack gives her a look. "Very funny."

"I thought so." she says with a weak and amused smile. Jack smiles small at her, grateful to see her gorgeous smile again.

She was his everything. His Lifeline.

[itsjusthockey]

All I Want For Christmas - Jack Hughes

Wow guys, I’m back from the dead

Please interact because It’s fun

Do we want a Christmas series (I was gonna do one last year and then just didn’t because I don’t know)

I have other ideas brewing if this gets a lot of love

Anyway…enjoy

w.c 1,326 (credit to gif maker) (don’t steal my work)

What do you get a man who has everything? Money? Check. Fame? Check. The best girlfriend in the world? Double check. Everything Jack Hughes could ever want, he had. And unfortunately for you, that makes it very difficult to buy him a Christmas present.

For the past almost three years, whenever you’ve asked about it, Jack always says the same thing: he doesn’t want anything, and not to waste your money on him. Normally, you'd be okay with that—college is expensive, and the savings you have go toward your future. But still, it’s your favorite time of year, and you want to get him something, anything, to show just how much he means to you.

To make your life easier, this year, you’ve come up with a new plan. If you can’t get an answer from Jack, you’ll go to the next best sources. Your first call is to Ellen and Jim, who kindly explain that Jack had gotten to them first and he doesn’t want anything from you but your undying love and affection. Well, he already has that, so the call is mostly a bust.

Next, you call the Captain. He laughs, telling you the same thing as the parents, and he even adds a “He’s got everything, kid. Don’t stress about it.”

Your final hope is a FaceTime with Luke. The second he answers, you beat him to the punch.

“If you say Jack just wants my love for Christmas, I’m going to lose my mind.”

Luke bursts out laughing, which you don’t find remotely funny.

“Sorry, champ,” he says, grinning wide through the screen. “I’ve got nothing. I don’t even know what I’m getting him.”

You let out a frustrated groan and bury your face in your pillow. It shouldn’t be this hard to find a gift for your boyfriend, and the days are counting down. You stay like that for a minute, until Luke calls your attention back to him.

“Stop stressing so much. You could get him a Yankee candle and he’d love it.” He pauses. “Or, hear me out, maybe you just listen to him and don’t get him anything.

Another groan escapes you, and you finally pick your head up. “That’s the thing, Luke. He always gets me the nicest things every year, and everything I get him feels... not as good.”

Luke rolls his eyes at your state. “Come on, you know he’s got the big bucks. Don’t put that kind of pressure on yourself to compete with him.”

You know he’s right, but it still doesn’t help. You give up on ideas for a bit and talk to Luke about whatever’s going on in his life. He’s still single, still slightly dumb, but he’s every bit still one of your best friends—much to Jack’s dismay.

“I actually do have an idea for you,” Luke says suddenly.

You sit up, eager to hear any suggestions.

“Come to Jersey for the break. Maybe the whole thing. You know that would be the only thing he’d want.”

You deflate like a ballon, a heavy weight coming in your chest. Even still, you try for a minute to work it out in your head. You’ve got your own family who expects you home, a job to manage, and grad school applications to finish. As much as you’d love to drop everything to be with Jack for a month, it just doesn’t make sense in your current situation.

Luke senses your unease like he always does and recovers. “It was just an idea. A stupid one. I forget you’ve got a lot going on.

You force a small smile, but the ache in your chest doesn’t go away. You put on a facade and talk to Luke a bit longer until your stomach growls and you excuse yourself to make dinner.

You’re halfway through cooking a pasta recipe from TikTok when your phone lights up. You assume it’s Jack, and you’re proven right. You prop the phone up just enough so you’re in the frame and answer.

“Hey, J,” you say, sounding more tired than you want. “How was your day?”

“It was great, mostly. Except, I heard through the grapevine you’re trying to get me a present.”

He teases and you try to laugh, but the sound dies in your chest, and before you even know it, tears are welling up in your eyes.

“Wait—what’s going on, babe?” Jack’s voice is full of concern, and that makes you start crying even harder.

“I'm fine, J,” you manage, your voice is quieter than you like. “I’m just...overwhelmed.

Jack falls silent for a moment, and you want to hang up, but you know if you do, he’ll blow up your phone until you answer again.

“Is it... me?” He ask, and your heart cracks again.

You let out a sharp laugh. “No, Jack. Not by you—just by life.”

He nods slowly, and for a second, you can practically feel how much he wishes he could be there with you.

“Is there anything I can do?” he asks, his voice is so sweet and so sincere that it almost kills you.

You wipe another tear away and finally give in to what you need to ask. “You can tell me what you want for Christmas.”

This time, he laughs, and it lifts your spirits just a little.

“Fine. I want one of those journals you write in. You know, the one with the prompts. That’s all I want.”

You turn the oven off and sit down at your table, making a mental note.

“Okay, that’s all I needed to know.”

The call falls silent again, and then Jack says something that makes your chest tighten all over again.

“(Y/N)... all I want, I already have. And I’m not just saying that. The only thing that could make me happier is having you here with me. But I know you’ve got your own stuff going on, and I can’t pretend to understand it. I need you to stop stressing about me. I’m good, great even. And seeing you hurt... that’s the only thing that’s making me hurt.”

You swallow hard, wiping away another stray tear. You nod silently, but finally break just a little bit more.

“I just wish I was with you,” you finally admit.

It’s true. Every time you hear his voice, things start to smooth out, and it’s even better when you’re together. You’ve done long-distance your entire relationship, and you’re starting to get really sick of it.

“I know. But we’ll have a week together soon, and it’ll be the greatest week ever, okay?”

You nod again, a small smile tugging at your lips. You finish your food and let Jack talk about whatever he feels like, the sound of his voice settling the tightness in your chest. You talk for an hour, long after you’ve finished eating and cleaned up. Finally, when your eyes are growing heavy, Jack bids you goodnight, and you hang up the call.

After your nighttime routine, you buy the journal he asked for from one of your favorite sites, and settle down under the sheets, wishing he was on the other side of the bed. You try to fall asleep right away, but of course, you think for a while, and the weight of your life situation hits you again. Maybe it’s time for a change—something to give you more time to be with the be thing that truly makes your happiness. Before you even know it, you’re pulling out your computer again and typing. You have another Christmas present idea, and you’re sure it tops anything you could ever think to buy him.

[goldfades]

𝟎𝟎𝟏 SLIPPING INTO YOU ⋆ ˚｡⋆ ꪆৎ ˚ MATT REMPE

12 days of christmas celebration!!

as holidays approach, it’s important to remember those who are facing hardships, such as the people of palestine. in times of crisis, solidarity matters more than ever. you can support palestinian communities by donating to reputable organizations providing aid, such as food, medical supplies, and shelter. help palestine with a click | heal palestine | unrwa | resources for palestine

⟢ ┈ 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 | 3.4k

⟢ ┈ 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 | Matt drags you to the local ice rink. Matt is a natural skater, while you can barely stand without falling. Cue laughter, clumsy hand-holding, and lingering touches as they help each other stay upright (though, that doesn't do much).

⟢ ┈ 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | fluffy! matt being the boyfriendest bf ever, descriptions of being scared, hot cocoa!!!!!!!

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐒 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐓. Twinkling lights wrap around every lamppost, casting a warm glow that dances across the freshly fallen snow. The cold bites at your cheeks, but it's the kind of chill that feels festive, softened by the sweet scent of roasting chestnuts and cinnamon wafting from a nearby vendor. You pull your red scarf tighter around your neck, the fabric brushing against your chin as you match Matt's long strides through the crowded streets of New York.

He's practically humming with excitement. There's a childlike energy about him, and his eyes are bright with that unmistakable holiday sparkle. You don’t get to see this side of him often—outside the rink, he's usually all cool confidence and easy smiles. But here, in the city at Christmastime, he’s almost giddy, a broad grin plastered on his face.

You’re in the middle of pointing out the Rockefeller tree, its massive branches glittering in the distance, when Matt’s gaze catches on something else. His hand, warm and firm, slides into yours without warning, and suddenly you’re being tugged sideways, stumbling a bit over the slick pavement.

“Come on,” he urges, and you can already hear the teasing lilt in his voice, “I have an idea.”

You don’t have time to protest. He’s already pulling you through the flow of people, past couples holding hands and bundled-up families, the city’s hustle and bustle a blur around you. And then you see it—the ice rink, its surface shining under a canopy of lights, the sound of skates slicing the ice filling the air.

Your stomach drops.

“Oh, no,” you say, the words tumbling out in a rush. You dig your heels into the sidewalk, but it does little to stop him. “Matt, I can’t—I’ll fall on my face.”

He laughs, the sound deep and warm, the kind that makes your heart do a funny little flip. “You won’t,” he says, squeezing your hand. “I promise, I won’t let you fall.”

You open your mouth to protest again, but then he turns to look at you, his face softening in that way that’s almost impossible to resist. His cheeks are flushed from the cold, and there’s a mischievous glint in his eyes—one that you know all too well.

“Pleaseee?” he says, drawing the word out, his voice low and coaxing. He’s still holding your hand, and you can feel the reassuring pressure of his fingers intertwined with yours. You hesitate, nerves twisting in your stomach, but the way he’s looking at you makes it hard to say no.

Before you can think it through, you nod, just once, and Matt’s grin grows impossibly wide. “That’s my girl,” he says softly, and suddenly you’re both moving toward the rink, his excitement pulling you along despite the butterflies fluttering wildly in your chest.

You find yourself walking toward the ice rink as if in a daze, half-stumbling over the uneven patches of snow still clinging to the sidewalk. There’s a faint sense of inevitability, like this was always going to happen the moment Matt caught sight of the ice. He practically vibrates with enthusiasm, and his energy is contagious even as you fight back the urge to run in the other direction.

“Matt, I really can’t skate,” you say, the words tumbling out as he pulls you closer to the entrance. There’s a line forming, people exchanging laughter as they lace up their skates. Your heart is hammering against your ribs. “I’m serious. I’ll fall, and you’ll end up dragging me around the ice like a sled.”

He stops then, turning to face you, his expression softening as if he can sense the genuine anxiety brewing behind your teasing tone. The noisy swirl of the crowd fades a little as he reaches up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear, his gloved fingers brushing your skin. He’s so much taller that you have to tilt your head up to meet his eyes, and there’s a gentleness there that you weren’t expecting—a promise, unspoken, that he’s got you.

“Okay, listen,” he says, leaning in close enough that you can catch the crisp, wintry scent of his jacket, mixed with a hint of his cologne. “If you do this with me, I swear I’ll buy you the biggest, fanciest cup of hot cocoa New York has to offer. Whipped cream, marshmallows, caramel drizzle—the works.”

Your lips twitch, despite the nerves still coiling in your stomach. “You’re trying to bribe me with hot cocoa?”

“Is it working?” His grin is lopsided, charmingly hopeful, and he’s already dragging you forward again before you can decide if it’s working or not. “Besides, you know you’ll look cute out there. I mean, if anyone can make flailing around on ice adorable, it’s you.”

You roll your eyes, but there’s no real heat behind it. He’s relentless in that way of his, a confidence that makes you believe, just a little, that maybe you won’t fall flat on your face the second your skates hit the ice. With a sigh that you hope hides how hard your heart is pounding, you let him lead you to the rental booth.

The process is quick—Matt knows exactly what size to ask for, and before you can even finish contemplating an escape route, he’s kneeling in front of you, already tying the laces of your skates with deft, practiced fingers.

It’s almost absurd, seeing him like this, the picture of a hockey player lost in this unexpectedly tender moment. His hands move with such ease, and you wonder how many times he’s done this—how many rinks he’s laced up at, how many times he’s made skating look as natural as breathing.

“Comfy?” he asks, giving the laces one final tug before standing up, towering over you again. There’s a spark in his eyes, that same infectious excitement that hasn’t dimmed, and you find yourself nodding, even though your legs already feel shaky and you’re not even on the ice yet.

He steps into his own skates like he’s been doing it his whole life—which, of course, he has—and then he’s holding out his hand, palm up, waiting. “You ready?”

“Not even a little,” you admit, but you slip your hand into his anyway, feeling the solid, reassuring weight of his fingers curling around yours.

Your grip tightens instinctively as he leads you toward the edge of the rink, where a couple of kids are racing each other, their laughter ringing through the chilly air.

There’s a moment of panic when your first skate touches the ice, and you automatically cling to the side railing like it’s a life preserver. The cold, slick surface feels unsteady beneath your feet, a thousand miles away from the solid ground you were just walking on. Matt steps on effortlessly, gliding in front of you with the kind of grace that makes it clear why he’s a pro. His skates move smoothly over the ice, barely making a sound.

“See?” he says, his tone light and teasing. “It’s easy. Just take my hand.”

Your heart is in your throat, and you feel the cold seep into your fingers where they grip the metal railing, but you let go with one hand—then the other—trusting that he’ll catch you. And he does. His hand slides back into yours, strong and steady, and he pulls you closer, guiding your feet inch by inch onto the ice. The world narrows down to the sound of his voice, the glide of his skates, and the icy chill prickling your cheeks.

“Keep your knees bent a little,” he advises, skating backward so he can face you, his hands wrapped around yours. “Just relax. You’ve got this.”

“Easy for you to say,” you mutter, wobbling as you take your first hesitant step. Your legs feel like jelly, every muscle tensed and ready to crumple at the slightest provocation. But Matt just laughs, the sound low and warm, and he stays close, holding your hands as you inch forward.

Little by little, you start to move with him, and he keeps talking, coaxing you into motion with a steady stream of encouragement. Every time you stumble, his hands tighten around yours, and every time you catch your balance, he flashes you that brilliant, proud grin that makes your cheeks burn—not from the cold, but from something else entirely.

Somehow, minutes turn into a quarter of an hour, then half an hour, and the fear starts to melt away, replaced by something warm and fluttery that has nothing to do with the cocoa waiting for you when you’re done. Your movements are still clumsy, but you’re not gripping his hands like a lifeline anymore. There’s more laughter than fear now, and you’re both skating together, your breaths mingling in the frosty air.

“Alright,” Matt says, his voice dropping lower, the tone shifting to something more encouraging, almost coaxing. “I think you’re ready for the next step.” Before you can argue, he’s moving behind you, his hands settling at your waist. The heat of his palms is a reassuring weight through your coat, and you instinctively straighten, feeling the solid press of his chest at your back.

You can feel his breath on the side of your face, warm and steady, and your heart is hammering so hard it’s a wonder he can’t hear it. He’s practically wrapped around you now, one of his arms looping around your middle while his other hand rests lightly on your hip. For a moment, you forget you’re on the ice at all—his presence is steady, a warm cocoon that chases away the chill seeping through the air.

“Okay,” he murmurs right beside your ear, and you shiver, but not from the cold. “I’m gonna let go for just a second, alright? You’re doing great.”

“Wait—” you start, panic rising in your chest, but before you can finish, he’s already loosening his grip, fingers sliding away from your waist.

For a split second, you’re skating on your own—your feet moving awkwardly but somehow in rhythm, the ice feeling almost manageable beneath you. A surge of exhilaration flares up, and you can’t help the giddy laugh that bubbles out of you.

“I’m doing it!” you say, a thrill of pride swelling in your chest. You’re skating—actually skating—and for that split second, you believe you’ve got it, that you’ve finally found your balance. But just as quickly as the thought forms, it all goes wrong.

Your skate catches on a rough patch, and suddenly you’re tilting forward, arms flailing for something—anything—to hold onto. The ground is coming up fast, but before you can hit the ice, your fingers find purchase, clutching onto Matt’s arm just as you feel yourself going down. You yank him off balance, and there’s a startled shout from behind you as he tries to catch himself, but it’s too late.

The world tilts and blurs as you both crash to the ice in a tangled heap. It all happens in a heartbeat—the cold, hard surface jolting against your back, Matt’s weight pressing against you as he lands almost on top of you, his arms braced around your shoulders to keep from crushing you completely. The impact is over before you’ve even had time to realize what happened, leaving you both sprawled out in a mess of limbs and laughter, your breath misting in the air between you.

For a second, you’re both too stunned to move. You blink up at the Christmas lights strung above the rink, the colorful bulbs shimmering in the darkness, casting a kaleidoscope of colors over the ice. Then Matt shifts, his eyes wide with surprise, his face so close that you can see the faintest dusting of snowflakes caught in his dark hair.

And then you both burst out laughing—helpless, giddy laughter that bubbles up and spills over, filling the crisp night air. It’s the kind of laughter that’s impossible to stop, the kind that leaves your cheeks aching and your stomach sore, and you can’t help but lose yourself in it.

Matt’s forehead drops against your shoulder, his whole body shaking with laughter, and you’re laughing so hard that you can’t catch your breath, your gloved hands still clinging to his arm as if you’re both afraid to let go. He shifts slightly, still laughing, and his weight presses you deeper into the ice, but it doesn’t feel cold anymore—it feels warm, safe, like the world has narrowed down to just the two of you in this ridiculous, wonderful, chaotic moment.

When he finally lifts his head, wiping a tear from the corner of his eye, there’s a grin on his face that’s so infectious you can’t help but smile back. “I thought you had it,” he teases, still breathless with laughter, his face inches from yours.

“I thought I did too,” you gasp, shaking your head. “But then you let go! Why did you let go?!”

“Hey, you grabbed me!” he says, mock-indignant, still grinning.

He shifts, rolling off you but keeping close enough that your shoulders are still touching, both of you lying flat on the ice, staring up at the glittering lights above. “I told you I wouldn’t let you fall alone.”

You laugh again, your breath hitching, and you push at his shoulder playfully. “Yeah, well, now we’re both down here, genius.”

“Worth it,” he says easily, a soft warmth in his eyes that makes your breath hitch for an entirely different reason. His smile fades into something softer, something more real, and he reaches up to brush a stray snowflake from your cheek, his fingers lingering for just a second longer than necessary. “You’re okay, right?”

You nod, feeling a little breathless, a little dazed, but completely, wonderfully okay. More than okay. You’re lying on the ice in the middle of New York City, tangled up with Matt in a pile of limbs and laughter, and it’s perfect in a way you never would’ve expected.

“Alright,” he says, still smiling as he pushes himself up, extending a hand to help you to your feet. “Come on, let’s try that again. And if you fall this time, I’m definitely buying you that hot cocoa.”

“Deal,” you say, letting him pull you up, his hand warm and sure in yours. And for a second, standing there with him, your feet wobbling and your cheeks burning, you think maybe falling isn’t so bad after all.

When you finally make it off the ice—after several more tumbles, a lot of laughter, and one triumphant lap around the rink where you manage to stay upright the whole time—Matt keeps his promise. His arm is slung casually over your shoulders, the two of you leaning against each other for warmth as you leave the rink behind, the lights fading into the distance as you make your way back into the heart of the city.

“There’s a place right around the corner,” Matt says, his breath clouding the air as he gestures toward a cozy little cafe tucked between two shops. It’s the kind of place you’d never notice unless you were looking for it, and you can’t help but smile as he pushes open the door, the warm air inside washing over you like a wave.

The cafe is small and inviting, the air thick with the rich scent of chocolate and fresh pastries. A garland of evergreen is wrapped around the windows, and twinkling fairy lights cast a soft glow over the tables. There’s a slight hum of conversation—other couples and groups of friends escaping the chill of the winter night—and it feels like you’ve stepped into a Christmas postcard.

“Go find us a seat,” Matt says, flashing you a grin as he makes his way to the counter. You peel off your gloves, rubbing your hands together to chase away the lingering cold, and find a little table by the window. The fogged glass gives a perfect view of the Rockefeller tree outside, its branches heavy with ornaments, the lights glittering like a million tiny stars against the night sky.

A few minutes later, Matt returns with two steaming mugs, their surfaces piled high with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a handful of tiny marshmallows. He sets one in front of you with a flourish, like he’s presenting you with the most important drink in the world, and you can’t help but laugh as you wrap your fingers around the warm ceramic, feeling the cold melt away.

“Fancy enough for you?” he asks, his tone light, but there’s a softness in his eyes as he watches you take that first, hesitant sip. The rich chocolatey warmth floods your senses, and you let out a happy sigh, feeling the warmth spread all the way to your toes.

“It’s perfect,” you say, and you mean it.

It’s not just the cocoa, though that’s pretty close to the best you’ve ever had. It’s the way Matt is looking at you, his smile lazy and content, the faintest hint of color still lingering in his cheeks from the cold. It’s the feeling of being here, together, with the sounds of the city muted outside and the tree lighting up the darkness like something out of a dream.

He sits across from you, long legs stretched out under the table, and for a while, you don’t say anything at all. You just sip your cocoa, watching the lights of the tree reflected in the window, the glass blurring the world outside until it feels like the two of you are the only ones in it.

“This is nice,” you finally say, your voice soft, almost hesitant, like you’re afraid of breaking whatever spell has settled over you both.

“Yeah,” he agrees, and there’s a warmth in his gaze that makes your chest feel tight, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “It really is.”

He reaches across the table, his fingers brushing against yours where they rest around your mug, and you let him. It’s a small gesture, almost nothing, but it sends a thrill through you that you can’t quite ignore. His thumb traces a lazy pattern over your knuckles, and you find yourself smiling back at him, feeling more connected than you ever thought possible in such a crowded city.

Outside, the Rockefeller tree shines brighter than ever, each light reflecting in Matt’s eyes as he watches you, his expression softer than you’ve ever seen it. There’s something about the moment—the warmth of the cocoa, the glow of the lights, the way the rest of the world seems to fade away—that feels special, almost magical.

Like maybe this is exactly where you’re supposed to be, with the right person, at the right time.

He doesn’t say anything, and neither do you, but there’s no need. The silence between you is comfortable, easy, and as you sit there, sipping cocoa and stealing glances at each other over the rim of your mugs, you think you could stay here forever—right in this perfect little moment with him, the city sparkling around you like something out of a dream.

Eventually, Matt leans back in his chair, stretching a bit, and he gives you a lazy grin that’s all mischief and warmth. “Alright,” he says, eyes twinkling, “if I knew hot cocoa would make you this happy, I would’ve dragged you out on the ice ages ago.”

You roll your eyes, but you can’t help the laugh that escapes. “It wasn’t just the cocoa, you know,” you say, a little shy, and Matt’s grin softens.

“I know,” he replies, his voice gentle, and he holds your gaze a little longer than necessary before his attention shifts back to the glowing tree outside. For a while, the two of you just watch the lights twinkle, your mugs growing lighter with each sip until all that’s left is the memory of warmth and sweetness lingering on your tongues.

“Next year,” he says suddenly, his tone thoughtful, “we’re doing this again. Same rink, same cocoa, same everything.”

“Next year?” you ask, pretending to be skeptical, but the way your heart skips tells you exactly how much you want that—how much you want to be here, with him, over and over again.

“Next year,” he repeats, his voice firm and certain. He gives your hand one last squeeze before he lets go, reaching for his empty mug with a casual ease that makes your heart do another of those funny little flips. “It’s a tradition now.”

“A tradition,” you echo softly, the word tasting sweet on your tongue, and you find yourself smiling again, feeling something warm and hopeful bloom in your chest. It’s a promise, unspoken but solid, and as you glance back at the tree, its lights reflecting off the glass like a thousand little stars, you know it’s a promise you want to keep.

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[captain-bubble-wrap]

Eyelash appreciation pt2!