#trina crosby | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

doc-pickles · 1 year ago

Text

hat trick | sidney crosby

summary: sidney goes three for three on and off the ice.

warnings: mentions of sex, kids, pregnancy, morning sickness, breeding kink if you squint

a/n: this is my first hockey fic! I missed writing so this was a fun little intro back into it. enjoy!

xoxo nina

one.

You sighed as you settled onto the couch, watching as the Penguins skated off the ice. They’d just been eliminated in the first round of playoffs after a tough five game series. You knew Sidney would be devastated when he came home the next day.

What you weren’t expecting was Sidney coming home before 6 AM. You were still fast asleep when a pair of arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you close.

“Mmm Sid? You’re not to supposed to be back till noon,” you mumbled as Sidney’s hand trailed under your sleep shirt.

“Missed my favorite girl,” Sidney’s words were muffled as his lips pressed to your neck, eliciting a low moan from you.

You rolled onto your back and looked up at Sidney whose lips were trailing over your skin, “As much as I love you, the sun isn’t even up yet. Did you even change before you jumped in bed?”

“No, I’m on a mission,” Sidney’s lips were still pressed to your skin as he spoke, his hands trailing up your sides to brush at the curve of your breasts. “I’m gonna win the Cup next year.”

You giggled as Sidney stripped off your shirt and his before his lips met yours in a hot kiss. You pulled back, meeting his eyes, “Which is a great goal babe, but I don’t see how us having sex has anything to do with that.”

“Our baby is gonna sit in the Stanley Cup next year,” Sidney grinned down at you.

“What baby?”

“The baby I’m going to put into you,” Sidney’s voice was low and thick as his fingers reached down and slipped under the lace of your panties, coaxing a low gasp from your lips. “Gotta start now, there’s no time to waste babe.”

“Sid-“

Your words were cut off as Sidney kissed you once more, his fingers slowly sliding into you. You’d talked about kids before, but you always thought he was the more hesitant one. His eagerness to start trying right away made you smile as his teeth gently sunk into the delicate skin of your neck.

“Fuck baby,” Sidney groaned as he leaned away to look at you. “Can’t wait to fill you up, see you growing with my baby.”

You blinked up at Sidney as he waited for you to answer the question hanging between you. With a small grin you reached up and threaded your fingers through his hair, leaning your forehead against his.

“Well what are you waiting for? Put a baby in me Captain.”

The excitement in the arena was contagious as Sid skated across the ice, the Stanley Cup held high above his head. Your husband had never looked so happy, his grin threatening to overtake his face as he skated over to you.

“I’m so proud of you baby,” you grinned as Sidney pulled you in and gave you a passionate kiss. “So freaking proud.”

“I love you,” Sidney grinned before extending his arms towards his mom who was standing behind you. “Hand her over, I’ve been waiting far too long for this.”

Trina grinned as Sidney kissed her cheek and then took the baby in her arms. Your daughter Sophie was only three months old but she wore a bright smile as her dad brought her against his chest. Tears threatened to run down your cheeks as Sidney leaned down to place her in the top of the Stanley Cup, cameras flashing all around you.

“C’mere,” Sidney gestured to you and you quickly pressed yourself into his hold. “Wouldn’t be here without you. I love you baby.”

“I love you too Sid.”

two.

“Babe! I’m home!”

You groaned as your head rested against the cool porcelain of the toilet bowl, your stomach churning as you took deep breaths. You could hear Sidney come into the house, dropping his bag and ducking into Sophie’s room before heading towards your bedroom.

“Babe?”

You went to answer but your stomach decided to roll unpleasantly and you’re bent over the toilet again as you gagged.

A warm hand rested on your back as you groaned, your body lurching forward again. Sidney pulled your hair back from your face.

“You need me to go get anything for you,” Sidney asked as you finally stopped puking, your head resting on his chest. “Meds or some soup and crackers?”

You shook your head as you groaned, “No I’m fine. I just wanna nap.”

“You sure you don’t need anything? I love you but you look awful,” Sidney pushed your hair away from your face as he pressed a kiss to your head.

“I’m fine,” you sighed as you leaned further into his hold. “Your demon spawn is just trying to take over my body.”

“What the hell does that… Wait,” Sidney leaned back and looked you over. “You’re pregnant?”

You let a small grin take over your face, “Don’t sound so shocked, you’re the one that insisted we celebrate the Cup win everyday for two weeks. Multiple times. I’m pretty sure this baby is a result of a shit ton of champagne and the time you dragged me into the broom closet during that gala.”

“Hey! This baby was not conceived in a broom closet,” Sidney grinned as he leaned down and pressed his lips to your forehead. “I love you. And I’m excited for another little one to chase around.”

“I’m excited to, but I’d love to stop puking up my guts,” you smirked as Sid squeezed your shoulders.

three.

“Sophie! Stop running, you know I can’t keep up with you!”

You groaned as your four year old raced ahead of you through the crowds of the arena. While Sophie had grown up within the walls of the PPG Paints Arena seeing her sprint through the halls still made your heart flip. Thankfully Taylor took off after her, scooping the little girl into her arms.

“Oh sweetheart, you need a nap,” Trina Crosby settled her hand on your shoulder as she sidled up next to you. “Running after two babies is hard work enough, throw in another one on the way. I’m sure you’re exhausted.”

You smiled and hoisted Violet higher on to your hip. Trina and Taylor had both offered to carry her but the little girl was glued to your side, even with your nine month baby bump in the way.

“I’m okay for now. Besides, this could be Sid’s last time winning the Cup, I’m not going to miss it for anything,” you grinned and settled a hand in your bump. Your third baby was giving you a hard time today but you tried to silently convey to them that this game was important. “Plus Taylor has Sophie covered and all Vi wants is cuddles.”

Troy chuckled as he joined your group, placing a hand on your shoulder, “And what will you do if this next one is a spitfire boy like Sid?”

“Hand him off to his dad,” you grinned as Trina and Troy both laughed. You headed into the suite behind them, settling into a chair as Violet scrambled toward Troy who gladly hoisted her up.

Game seven of the Stanley Cup finals was eventful, everyone in the suite cheering loudly as Sidney scored his first and second goal of the night. Sophie was bouncing excitedly between Taylor and Trina while Troy was trying to explain the game to Violet who simply kept yelling ‘penguin!’ any chance she got.

“C’mon boys! You got this,” you yelled as you watched the Penguins battling it out on the ice. “Let’s go Sid!”

You watched with bated breath as the tied game ticked down to its final seconds, Sidney commandeering the puck and shooting it into the goal for win and a complete hat trick.

Trina, Troy, Taylor, and you cheered loudly as Sidney and his teammates celebrated their victory. Sophie and Violet cheered as well, not quite knowing what was happening but excited none the less.

You and the Crosby’s headed down to the ice to congratulate Sidney on another win. Your hand floated down to your bump as a sharp kick from your third child hit you, “I know, you’re excited too. But can we settle down a bit please?”

“Baby giving you trouble?” You grinned widely as Sidney skated up to you, placing a hand across your bump as he leaned down to kiss you.

“Congrats baby,” you smiled as you placed your hand on Sidney’s chest. “I’m so proud of you.”

“Couldn’t have done it without you,” Sidney mumbled into your hair as he pulled you close. “You and the girls and this little one mean more to me than the Cup.”

“But the Cup is sure nice,” you giggled as Sid looked over your shoulder at the Stanley Cup.

“Sure is,” Sidney laughed just as the baby produced a harsh kick against his hand. “Hey there buddy, you excited about the win too? Once you get here I’ll sit you in the Cup, promise.”

Sophie ran up behind you, looping herself around Sidney’s legs. “Daddy! You won again!”

Sidney hoisted Sophie up, Violet reaching for you from Troy’s arms. With both girls between you and your husband, you smiled as the Penguins media team snapped photos of your family. You were notoriously private about your kids but today was a celebration for Sidney so you didn’t mind sharing your family moment with the world.

“You’re missing this Cap,” Kris skated over with the Stanley Cup, settling it in front of you and Sidney. “Honorary family member.”

“I think it’s Vi’s turn to sit in the cup,” Sidney grinned as Violet smiled up at him. “C’mere pretty girl. Crosby tradition, littlest one sits on top.”

Sophie wiggled out of Sidney’s arms as he took Violet from you, the 18 month old smiling widely as her father placed her in the top of the silver cup. You smiled for a few more photos before the celebration continued. You stayed glued to Sidney’s side as he accepted congratulations from everyone, his hand rested against your bump as he held you close.

“Mommy! You peed your pants,” Sophie gasped as she pointed at your leggings that were now sporting a dark stain. You could feel the wetness seeping through the fabric just as a sharp pain radiated through your stomach.

“Sid we might need to take this celebration elsewhere,” you looked up and met your husbands wide eyes. “Looks like the baby really was excited to celebrate.”

Excitement buzzed around you as everyone scrambled to get you and Sidney out of the arena as quickly as possible. You let Trina fawn over you, checking to be sure you had everything and assuring you they’d take care of the girls.

Once you and Sidney were settled in your car with an escort out of the crowded parking lot you turned to him with a grin, “Going for the double hat trick?”

Sid’s brows furrowed as he glanced over at you, “Double?”

“Yeah baby number three means you’ve officially achieved the dad hat trick,” you grinned and Sidney chuckled as his hand gripped yours. “I’m so proud of you Sid. You were amazing tonight.”

“Thanks baby,” Sidney smiled and pressed a kiss to the back of your hand. “Ready?”

“As I’ll ever be.”

#nina writes #sidney crosby #sidney crosby fic #sidney crosby imagine #hockey fic #hockey imagine #nhl fic #nhl imagine #nhl blurb #hockey blurb #hockey content

381 notes · View notes

starshine-hockey-girl · 9 months ago

Text

Change of Plan - Never Ever Have I - 2024 Post Season Blurb

Just a blurb to ease the pain of the Pens not making the playoffs.

On Exit Interview day, Sidney and Evie find that sometimes plans change.

Warning- contains spoilers of Sidney and Evie's 2024 life; Sidney and Evie smut- semi-public sex, talks of breeding

The chapter that started it all-

Thursday - April 18th - Crosby house - Sewickley, PA

Sidney laid on his belly in the living room and meticulously stacked blocks in a tower while his daughter watched. When he placed the last block on the top of the tower, he would grin and say, “Cat-Cat, do you like my tower? Isn’t it so tall?”

She would clap her hand and nod her head, “Tall Daddy…. Tall”. Then she would proceed to knock the tower down much to Sidney’s feigned shock and sadness. Sidney would put his head down and pretend to cry while looking sideways at the brunette beauty who was the perfect combination of her parents. “Daddy build,” his daughter would instruct, “Daddy build.”

He would grin at her before sighing dramatically, “Okay, but don’t knock it down again.” She would smile and clap as he rebuilt the tower. They were currently in round twelve of the game when the front door opened. Trina and Troy stepped into the house and Catherine abandoned Sidney in his place. She waddled over to her grandmother and held up her arms. Trina scooped her up and swung her around.

Sidney stood up and looked at his parents in confusion. “I wasn’t expecting you two this morning,” he smiled.

Trina began to speak before Evie cut her off.. “Beso, I asked them to come over to stay with Catherine,” she explained as she descended the stairs. Sidney turned to her with a look of confusion. Evie stopped at the bottom of the stairs, hugged her in-laws, and kissed Catherine on the cheek. “I have some errands to run before the party tomorrow night,” she said as she turned to Sidney, “I thought I would drop you off for your exit stuff and then pick you up afterwards so we could have some lunch together.” The Crosbys were hosting a combination party that night. They were celebrating the end of the season, and Jeff Carter’s just announced retirement.

Sidney processed the information quickly. While he couldn’t produce a logical objection to her plan, something seemed amiss. Evie was far too dressed up for simple errands. For errands, she defaulted to yoga pants. Instead she wore a short red dress which she paired with sparkly flats. However, he dismissed the thought and they proceeded to get ready to leave.

THREE HOURS LATER- UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex

“Geno!” Evie yelled at the tall Russian.

He turned to her with a smile. “Evie- you sight for hurt eyes.”

“Sore eyes - sight for sore eyes,” Evie corrected.

Geno rolled his eyes. Evie was the only person who had enough audacity to correct his English. He pretended to be annoyed but he appreciated her concern. “Sore eyes,” he repeated, “Nice to see my friend. It has been too long.”

“It was last week,” she laughed as she hugged him. “How is our boy?” she asked quietly. They shared a look. They both knew the results of the season had the capability to bring out the worst in Sidney.

“He’s good,” Geno spoke, the relief evident in his voice. “He's in the locker room,” he said as he kissed the top of her head. “Nikita is waiting for me. I will see you tomorrow night. He can't wait to see his Evie,” Geno joked as he walked away from her.

“Give him hugs from me!” She called to him before she turned to walk to the locker room.

Sidney sat alone at his locker. His personal effects were packed neatly in his duffle bag along with the additional bag of swag that that equipment team put together for Catherine. The Penguins staff had left the room to allow him time to gather his thoughts. “So another year of missing the playoffs,” he thought to himself. The thought ruminated in his brain as he tried to summon any sort of emotion. In the past, he would have imagined that there would be feelings of disappointment, even anger, but today he felt nothing.”Well, that’s not true,” he corrected himself. He felt a sort of resigned acceptance of the season's outcome. The acceptance was married with a feeling of anticipation and dare he say-happiness?

He looked forward to spending the next few months with Catherine and Evie. His daughter was such a happy toddler and spending time with her filled him with a peace that he didn’t quite understand. His thoughts turned to Evie who also brought him peace. She also lit a fire in his soul and he looked forward to relishing every minute he could. He needed to reconnect with her in a way that was simply impossible to do during the season.

He was so lost in thought that he barely heard Evie’s knock on the door. “Beso?” she said as she poked her head into the locker room, “Is there anyone else in here? I don’t want to intrude.” He shook his head no and she walked in gracefully. She looked around the room then turned to him with a smile on her face.

“You look happy, Mon Etoile,” he remarked, “How did you errands go?”

“Mission accomplished,” she said as she walked towards him, “Everything is set for tomorrow. Deliveries begin at 4 pm.” He nodded in understanding. Then he smiled and held out his hand to her, a silent invitation. She sat down next to him and rested her head on his shoulder. “You know Beso,” she drawled, “I don’t know how you do it.”

“Do what?” he asked.

“Come into this room and not remember that night almost six years ago,” she laughed, “How do you not picture me bent over this bench when you come to work every day?”

“Ohhh,” he responded as he deftly wrapped his arm around her and lifted her onto his lap, “I do remember it. I remember it every day.” His voice trailed off and he blinked his eyes that suddenly filled with tears.

“On a good day, it is a reminder of how much life can change with a single decision,” he spoke softly. “On a bad day, it is a reminder that I have someone waiting for me at home who loves me unconditionally. That all of this…..” He waved his hand around and continued, “All of this is nothing compared to the life that we made together.” He put his hand on her cheek, “So yes, I think about it every time I enter this room- even after all this time.”

“You do know how to woo a lady,” she leaned forward and kissed him gently, “Speaking of wooing, come with me, Beso.” She hopped up and held out her hand. He looked at her hand and then her face before grabbing onto it.

“Evie, where are we going? Should I be scared?” he joked as they exited the locker room and walked along the hall toward the rink. Sidney noticed that the hall was suspiciously empty. Evie led them to the bench. On the bench, there were two plastic bottles - one yellow and one black with Penguins logos on each.

“Evie…..” he groaned, ”What are we doing?” The lights to the rink were off. Only light from the hallway illuminated the bench.

“Take a seat in your office, Mr. Crosby,” she directed him to sit.

“Technically this isn't my actual official since it's the practice rink,” he corrected her.

“Take a seat, Beso,” she repeated. Once he was on the bench, she handed him the black bottle while taking the yellow one in her hand. Then she hiked her dress slightly and straddled his body, wrapping her legs behind his back. Then she smiled brightly at him as his eyes adjusted to the low light. “Beso, I am challenging you, “ she started to speak before he interjected.

“To what?” He moaned as lifted his hips to press into her.

“Wait, wait, wait…” She shook her head, “I have a whole plan.” His hands went under her skirt and grabbed her bare ass, pulling her into his crotch. “Beso, seriously - I have a plan,” she moaned as he grinned into her.

“Well, now I have a plan,” he kissed her neck. “Did you arrange privacy, Mon Etoile? Was that part of your plan?” The friction between their bodies filled her with pleasure that it was difficult to think.

“Yes,” she moaned, “The rink is ours.”

“Good,” he pushed her off his lap, spun her around and lifted her skirt in one smooth motion. “Oh no panties, Mon Etoile? Such a naughty woman, but i am changing the plan. Want to know the new plan, Evie?”

“I am pretty sure I can figure it out,“ she teased before she swatted his hand away. However she made no other movement. Instead she leaned forward and placed her elbows on the bench railing.

“Evie,” he groaned as he stood and unbuttoned his pants, “You will like my plan. I promise. Want to hear it?” He leaned over her back and pressed his erection against her slick folds. She nodded yes, afraid she might not be able to control the volume of her moans.

He slid into her effortlessly. “My new plan is to put another baby into you,” he moaned as his cock was enveloped into her warmth. Evie smiled. This was her favorite of Sidney’s kinks. He got so turned on imagining impregnating her like he was a prized stallion in need to continue his bloodline. He pulled her up to kiss her neck before he reached around to use his fingers to enhance her pleasure. “We have all summer, Evie,” he whispered into her ear, “All summer for me to fill you every morning and night with my seed. You’ll be pregnant by the time the season starts.”

“Do it, Beso,” she moaned, “Fill me up right now.”

“Yes, I'm going to put a boy in you,” he hissed as his thrusting sped up, “My son.” The idea of his second child being conceived in an ice rink fueled his passion. It wasn’t long before they both collapsed from their mutual orgasms. He had a momentary panic when he noticed the drips slowly going down her thighs. His eyes darted around the bench as he pulled up his pants.

Evie shook her head, adjusted her dress then pulled a small hand towel from her purse. Sidney smiled, “Oh so you planned on me making a mess out of you today.” He took the towel from her hand, bent down and gently cleaned her thighs. He followed with kisses as he guided her back to the bench.

Evie leaned her head back and moaned softly, “Something like that. I knew that it was a distinctly possibility, which is why they shut down the rink for us,” she teased as she pulled out panties from here , “Knowing our past, it seemed like a safe bet.”

“What was your plan?” he as scooped her and placed her on his lap. He nodded his head toward the black and yellow bottles. “We're those involved” he asked with a twinkle in his eyes.

“Yes, before you so rudely interrupted me, I was going to challenge you to a game of “Never Ever Have I - married edition,” she joked.

“We can still play,” he kissed her cheek, “I just got caught up in the moment.” His hand instinctively went to her stomach. “Maybe the ice will bring us luck,” he grinned, “Just like with Catherine.”

“Not so sure about that, Beso,” she grinned.

“You don't think it worked? Why?” he did some mental math, “Shouldn't you be ovulating now?” Evie opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out. “What? Am I wrong?”

“I should be surprised that you know when I ovulate, but I am not, “ she softly kissed his lips. “But to answer your question, no- I am not ovulating,” she sighed, “Definitely not. All that work was unproductive.”

“You don’t think we conceived just now?” He whispered. It started a joke- a way to engage in their favorite kinks but the idea took root in his mind. The more he thought about it, the stronger the desire became. “You don't think we conceived or you are not ready for another child?” he asked.

“No, Beso- I don't think we just conceived a baby,” she kissed his nose, “and I hope to God that we are ready.” His eyes searched her face in question. She sighed and reached for her purse. “Close your eyes,” she ordered. His face scrunched up as she put her hands behind her back.

“I am sorry to disappoint you, Beso, but you didn't put a baby inside of me today,” she said with a soft smile. His face dropped and her hand went to his cheek. “See, you can't put a baby inside of me,” she kissed him gently, “because there is already one there.”

Confusion spread across this face. “What do you mean there is a baby inside you?” he asked in a small voice.

“I mean that I am pregnant,” she grinned, “Surprise!”

She watched as the realization sunk into his brain. “I can't put a baby into you because there is already a baby inside of you. There is a baby inside of you,” he spoke to himself. “There is a baby inside of you, which means you’re pregnant, which means that you are going to have a baby,” he uttered. Suddenly all of the dots connected and exclaimed,”WE ARE HAVING ANOTHER BABY!!! A BABY!!! EVIE….EVIE….A BABY!!!”

“Are you sure?” he asked. She pulled the sonogram picture from behind her back and handed it to him. He studied it silently. Evie wiped his tears. A million questions flooded his brain. He opened his mouth, and they flew out. She patiently listened.

“I took a test on last week when you were on the road. The OB confirmed it today, “ she explained, “He is due the second week of December.”

“He?” he grinned, “You think the baby is a boy, or do you know yet?”

“Too soon to tell,” she answered, “but this one feels different than Catherine. Maybe it's because we weren't planning on it. Are you sure you're happy? I know you like things planned, and having a baby during the season isn't ideal…..”

“Evie,” he pulled her into a hug and squeezed her tight. “You taught me that the best things are unplanned. You are the best thing to ever happen to me, and you were a complete surprise. I wasn't looking for you, but one game of Never Ever Have I later, here we are.”

He glanced at the bottles, “Sorry for ruining your plans, Evie.”

“It's okay,” she laughed, “it worked out.”

“Wait,” he announced, “I have one.”

“One what?” she asked.

“One Never Ever Have I,” he answered as he hand instinctively went to her belly.

“What is it?” she placed her hand on top of his.

“Never Ever Have I been so happy,” he beamed.

Evie reached for bottles of water and took a drink, “Me too, Beso, me too.”

#never ever have i #sidney crosby smut #sidney crosby fic #pittsburgh penguins smut #nhl smut #nhl fic #hrpf #sidney crosby fanfiction #sidney crosby x oc

45 notes · View notes

starshine-hockey-girl · 2 years ago

Text

A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes- Never Ever Have I- Chapter Twenty Six

Summary: Evie and Sidney begin "Operation Iceburgh" as he recovers from his surgery.

Author's Notes: I intended to add more pics but Google docs is being a bitch and I just want to get it posted

Warnings: brief discussions/allusions to suicide

@equallyshaw @pensfan5871 @penstxgal1968 @cellythefloshie @pattiemac1

Saturday, December 7th- Grand Ballroom- Fairmont Hotel- Pittsburgh

Sidney found Evie near the rear bar in the festively decorated ballroom space. She spoked animatedly to Kelsey Rust. He approached her and whispered in her ear, “It’s time.” She turned to him with a smile. He grabbed her hand and squeezed it while she said her goodbye. Together, they walked quickly to the stage where the party band was finishing up their song, “Marry You” by Bruno Mars. Bruno Mars - Marry You (Official Lyric Video)

The lead singer got the crowd's attention and spoke into the microphone, “Let’s give it up for guests of honor- Sidney and Evie.”

Sidney, dressed in his tuxedo, led Evie, who wore a short white sparkly dress, onto the stage. The singer handed Sidney the microphone with a flourish. Sidney wrapped his arm around Evie’s waist and brought the microphone to his mouth.

“Good evening everyone!” he started as the crowd cheered and Evie grinned.

“Evie and I want to welcome you to our engagement party. It means so much to each of us that would take the time to come celebrate our love and romance,” he continued before he turned to Evie. “Evie, I was just thinking about the words to that song. He sang joyfully, 'Cause it's a beautiful night, we're looking for something dumb to do. Hey baby, I think I wanna marry you’. What do you say? How about we get married tonight?”

The crowd erupted in cheers when Evie took the microphone and said, “I thought you would never ask. Let’s do it, Beso!”

The cheers turned into shocked expressions when Sidney took the microphone again. “I can’t lie to you. We had that bit planned, but we decided that since I am not playing right now and Evie’s always wanted a holiday wedding that we would go ahead and get married tonight.” Family and friends looked to Trina and Troy Crosby who shrugged their shoulders. “So if you all will make your way to the ballroom across the hall, we are going to have a quick wedding ceremony,” he added. “Give Evie just a few minutes for a wardrobe change and wait for the music. We will start in about thirty minutes,” he announced. The band cranked back up and sang the song. Sidney and Evie made their way off the stage. They danced and sang as they made their way through the crowd to the corridor. He pulled her into a tight hug. “Well, no turning back now,” he said as he kissed her, “Go, get ready Mon Etoile. I will be waiting for you at the end of the aisle.”

“Thirty minutes, Beso,” she laughed, “Give me half an hour to transform into your princess.”

“You are always my princess, even in sweats,” he smiled back.

“I’ll see you in there,” she said as she began to walk away, “You can’t miss me. I’ll be the one in white.”

“Can’t wait,” he said as he blew her a kiss.

“Me either,” she yelled back.

THREE WEEKS EARLIER- NOVEMBER 14TH-RITZ CARLTON- PHILADELPHIA

"So what's the idea," Evie asked.

"Let's get married at the engagement party," he said. She opened her mouth to object and her stopped her. "Think about it, Evie," he said, "You already have the catering, band and decor planned. We just need to add another ballroom for a ceremony and additional floral decor."

"What about the ceremony? If you want a Catholic ceremony, it needs to be at a church," she protested.

"They make exceptions all the time. If they won't make an exception, then we will do a non-denominational ceremony," he argued.

"It will take a lot of work," she said as her mind raced with the details that would need to be completed. "What about the people in Nova Scotia who won't be there? They will miss it," she pondered.

"We can do both," he smiled, "Get married now and have the big party in the summer." When Evie hesitated, he got serious. "Evie, I am tired of waiting to marry you. I want you to be my wife. I want to be your husband. I know I said summer but I don't want to wait any more.Why should we? I am ready to stand in front of our family and friends and exchange our vows." Evie tried to come up with a reasonable objection without success. "Evie, you can have your dream wedding. You can have the Christmas wedding that you always wanted. Maybe this can be the silver lining from the surgery. We can have it all."

Evie warmed to the idea, "If we do it, and I mean IF, should we make it a surprise? I think we need to prepare your parents and Adriana will figure it out if we make changes to the set-up."

Sidney smiled, "Keep it a secret-no one knows except for the wedding party and my family. What do you think? Let's get married. Say yes, please say yes."

“I think that it’s crazy, but I think we should do it,” she beamed.

“Really?” he asked, thrilled that she was even considering it.

“Yes, let’s make your masterplan a reality,” cheered, “Let’s do it!”

NOVEMBER 18TH-SIDNEY’S HOUSE- SEWICKLEY, PA

Sidney dialed Evie for a FaceTime call.

Evie: Beso-are you okay?

Sidney: Geno is being mean to me.

Evie: How is he being mean? What's going on?

Sidney: I am hungry and he won't make me food.

Geno shouted from the kitchen- He is lying, Evie.

Sidney: No, I am not, Evie. I just want a grilled cheese sandwich and he won’t make me one.

Geno: I made him two sandwiches already. No good for him. He too picky.

Evie: Is that true, Beso?

Sidney: They weren't like yours, Evie. He didn't use enough cheese like you.

Evie: I'll make you one when I get home. How about you have some of the leftover pasta from last night right now?

Sidney: When will you be home? I miss you.

Evie checked her watch and grimaced: I am going as fast as I can. I still need to talk to Adriana.

Sidney whined: How much longer?

Evie: Eat some pasta, take your medicine and then nap. I will be back before you wake up.

Sidney: You promise?

Evie: Yes, and I will bring you a treat if you quit giving Geno a hard time.

Adriana laughed from the door. Evie turned and smiled.

Evie: Do we have a deal, Beso?

Sidney: Okay, but come home soon.

Evie finished her goodbyes to Sidney and waved Adriana into the conference room that she had turned into a makeshift office.

Adriana: Gringo Boy is being a baby?

Evie raised an eyebrow: A- be nice. He is still in pain and going a little stir crazy. He is allowed to be a little needy.

Adriana: How many times has he FaceTimed you today?

Evie blushed: That's Facetime number three

"So why are you in the office today?" Adriana asked as she came in and took a seat.

Evie looked up, "I needed to walk the ballroom to see if my changes would work."

"Changes to the engagement Party?", Adriana asked incredulously. She would not go as far as to call Evie a Bridezilla, but the planning of the engagement party had been meticulous with multiple meetings to nail down all the details. With the date less than three weeks away, Adriana was confused as to what changes could be made.

"Yes, I'm just adding some space for the ceremony," Evie replied coolly. "The Knox is available and it will work for what we need."

Adriana blinked slowly. "What kind of ceremony?"

Evie smiled, "It has to be a secret."

"What has to be a secret?" Adriana leaned forward.

"Sidney and I are going to get married at the engagement party," Evie leaned forward and spoke in a conspiratorial tone. "We are changing the engagement party into a wedding," she added.

"What? Why?" Adriana gasped. Then she looked down at Evie's abdomen. "Are you pregnant?"

"Noooooo!" Evie shrieked. Adriana raised an eyebrow as Evie explained. "It was Sidney's idea. You know I wanted a Christmas wedding because my parents had one. It was the reason we chose the date for the engagement party. With Sidney's surgery and recovery time, we have the opportunity to actually get married on my parent's anniversary," she rambled. "I mean everything is basically planned. We just needed the ceremony space. The Knox ballroom is available. We just need to adjust the contract a bit to add it, change the menu a bit and add wedding cake."

Adriana smiled, "Evie…..You are going to get married in three weeks? Have you thought of everything? You need a bouquet. Will your dress be in by then? I thought it was going to take six months for the dresses.”

“Shit, I forgot about the dress.” Evie said in frustration, I can’t believe I forgot about the dress.”

“Hey Evita,” Adriana soothed, “You just need a fairy godmother or kick ass best friend. You’re lucky that you have one of those. We’ll get it all worked out. Focus on what matters right now which is getting Sidney healthy. We’ll divide and conquer the rest.”

Evie smiled, “You’re the best A.”

Together they sat down and created a list of everything that would have to get done. They divided it into different categories- Evie, Adriana and Sidney. Evie was in charge of bridal party wardrobe and floral decor changes. Adriana would handle the logistics of the hotel. Sidney was assigned the task of the marriage license, wedding officiant and other legal issues. By the time she left to go home, Evie felt confident that Sidney's masterplan was going to become a reality.

EARLY EVENING- SIDNEY’S HOUSE- SEWICKLEY, PA

“Beso,” Evie called out as she entered the house, “I’m home.”

“I’m in the living room,” he groaned as she walked inside. She picked up the pace when she heard the sound of his voice. He was lounging on the couch with the TV.

Geno poked his head out of the kitchen. "You home! Thank God- he is impossible to please.” Sidney glared at Geno and folded his arms. Evie walked over to the couch and kissed the top of his head. Geno continued to complain. "First pasta was too cold, then pasta was too hot, and we wait until it was just right," the Russian complained.

Sidney shrugged his shoulders, "I like it at the right temperature- that's all."

Evie pursed her lips together, "Did you take your pain medicine? What's your level at?"

Geno walked in, "He refuse pill. Think he is tough man."

Evie got up and retrieved his medicine along with some orange juice. She placed the pill in Sidney's hand. "Take it," she demanded. He opened his mouth to object. "Then stand up," she challenged, "by yourself." He took the pill without further complaint. "Now say thank you to Geno for taking care of you," she commanded.

"Thank you, Geno," Sidney obeyed.

Evie gave him another kiss in the head, "I am going to walk Geno out. Think about what you want to eat."

“Just order in food,” Sidney pouted, “I want you here with me, not in the kitchen. You were gone too long.”

Evie smiled as she returned to the couch with phone in hand. She reclined on her end of the couch and he moved gingerly to rest his head in her lap. She ran her right hand through his hair as he looked up at her. “Tell me about your day,” he requested. She told him about the mountain of emails that waited for her. She had worked as much as possible from her phone while they were in Philly, but her first full day “back in the office” was full of demands. “Did you tell A about Operation Iceburgh?” he asked with a smile. He was really quite pleased with himself for coming up with the code name for their plan. “What did she say?” he asked.

“Well, she asked if I was pregnant,” Evie chuckled. Sidney’s eyes widened in surprise. “People will make assumptions about why we are moving it up, Beso,” she smiled, “They will figure it out when I get drunk at the wedding or when my belly doesn’t start to grow.”

Sidney grimaced, “I don’t want people to think we are getting married out of obligation. I want them to know the truth.”

Evie caressed his cheek, “I think that we are safe, Sidney. We’ve been engaged for a couple of months. I am pretty sure that people will know the truth.” She gazed into his eyes and saw his pupils dilating slightly- the telltale sign the pain medicine was kicking in.

“We are getting married because we are in love,” he insisted.

She nodded her head in amusement, “Yes, we are, Beso. We are getting married because you love me and I love you. People will figure it out.”

“We are in love,” he said emphatically.

Evie steered the conversation into a different direction, “So what did you parents say when you told them?” His eyebrows knitted together. “You did call them, right?” she asked, “Beso, we need to tell them soon so they can arrange travel.”

“I forgot. I got busy arguing with Geno and forgot,” he answered sheepishly, “I will call right now.” He dug his phone out of his pocket and FaceTimed his parents.

Troy: Hey Sid- How are you feeling? Did you survive the day without Evie?

Sid: I am okay. The pain is manageable today. Today was awful without Evie.

Trina: What made it awful, Sid?

Sidney: She wasn’t here. I missed her. Also, Geno was mean to me.

Trina: Geno was mean? How was Geno mean?

Sidney: He wouldn’t make me food until Evie made him.

Evie lifted the phone out of his hand and spoke directly to Trina.

Evie: Sidney was being particular about his grilled cheese sandwich. Apparently Geno doesn’t use the same amount of cheese as I do. They settled on pasta instead. Isn’t that right, Sidney?

Sidney nodded his head as if his parents could still see his face.

Evie: Here’s Sidney back.

Sidney: I have an announcement to make.

He paused and looked at Evie.

Sidney: Well, we have an announcement to make.

His parents looked on in anticipation.

Sidney: I am going marry Evie sooner. No waiting until summer. Summer is too long to wait.

Troy and Trina looked at each other and then at Sidney.

Trina spoke slowly: I am sorry. What did you say?

Sidney: I am going to marry Evie at the engagement party. Not going to wait. Nope, going to do it then. She is going to be my WIFE.

Sidney's speech started to slow and he smiled helplessly. He leaned his head back and smiled at Evie. His parents looked at each in confusion.

Evie grabbed the phone again.

Evie: We decided to get married at the engagement party. It’s going to surprise everyone except the wedding party and family.

Troy: Why the change in plans? Is there anything else going on?

Sidney’s eyes got big and he grabbed the phone back: SHE IS NOT PREGNANT. No, she is not pregnant. She going to get her period this weekend. Definitely not pregnant. Not pregnant yet, but one day she will get pregnant. I will do it. Evie, I am going to get you pregnant one day. We’re going to have babies. I want to have babies with you.

Evie grabbed the phone again and patted Sidney’s head.

Evie: Wow, that was TMI, Sidney.

Evie blushed and smiled timidly at Trina and Troy who were bouncing between the need to laugh and confusion on the new plan.

Evie: Since Sidney is on injured reserve and won’t be playing for a while, we are going to take the opportunity to have the Christmas wedding that I wanted. We will be able to have the same anniversary as my parents.

Trina: Wow. That’s a big change. What about all the deposits we put down here?

Evie: We are going to keep everything the same. We’ll re-do the ceremony and vows and then have the big party still.

Sidney grabbed the phone and smiled at his parents.

Sidney: It’s in less than three weeks. You need to come. And Taylor, too. She needs to come because we are getting married. Yes, we are getting married because we are IN LOVE, not because Evie is pregnant.

Troy: Sid, that’s great. You sound like you could use a little rest since your pain meds kicked in.

Sidney: Yep, I am sleepy.

He yawned loudly before he perked up.

Sidney shouted: Evie!

Evie laughed: Yes, Sidney?

Sidney: We’ll be married at Christmas. When we go home to Nova Scotia for Christmas, I will be your HUSBAND-not your fiancé.

Evie: That’s true. Now say goodbye to your parents.

Sidney smiled a goofy grin: Bye. My fiancé told me to say bye. Bye!

Evie took the phone from his hand: Sorry for the goofiness. He just had pain meds. I will update you with the details. See you soon.

She placed the phone on the side table and looked down at Sidney who continued to gaze up at her lovingly.

Sidney: Check that off of the list.

Evie: Speaking of list, I have a list of stuff for you to start doing for the wedding. Can I trust you to get it all done?

Sidney: Yes ma’am

He mock saluted her and she mussed his hair.

Evie: I think it’s time to get you some dinner into you before you crash.

Sidney: Yes ma’am

Evie laughed: I don’t know, Sidney. I am digging this agreeable and compliant version of you.

Sidney wiggled his eyebrows: Don’t get used it, Evie. I will return to bossiness when I feel better. I’ll show you who’s in charge around here.

Evie: Promises, promises. You have another two and half weeks before you can do that.

BLACK FRIDAY-NOVEMBER 22ND-SIDNEYS HOUSE- SEWICKLEY, PA

Sidney was in the basement watching the Penn State game with several guys from the team when a notification popped up on his phone.

His head popped up when he heard the door leading in from the garage slam shut. Sidney got up from the sectional and called back to the guys, “I’ll be back. Evie’s home.” When he emerged at the top of the stairs, he saw her standing in the walk-in pantry. He could tell from her head movement that she was in search of something specific.

“Mon Etoile,” he said softly, “How did it go?”

She didn’t turn around. Instead, she stepped further into the pantry. “Do we have any chocolate? I NEED some chocolate,” she whined. The slight nasal tinge to her voice told him that she had been crying. Adriana had not exaggerated with her text.

“Remember- you threw all the sweets and junk food in the trash yesterday?” he answered. “You said that you had stuffed yourself on Thanksgiving so you needed to get back in control,” he said hesitantly.

“Are you fucking kidding me?” she squealed as she remembered. “Let’s eat healthy” Evie had been very thorough in her purge of the pantry. “Why did you let me do that, Beso?” she continued to whine. Sidney paused and stared. She turned to face him. Her face was stained with tears and she put her hands on her hips. It was abundantly clear to Sidney that there was no good answer to her question, but he answered anyway.

“You said that you have to fit into a dress in two weeks. You didn’t want to gain any weight,” he offered. “Personally I don’t think that you have to worry about that at all,” he began to add, “I think that your body is absolutely perfect. Any dress you pick will look great.”

She stepped out of the pantry and slammed the door. The noise was loud enough for the group of guys below to look up in surprise. “Well, I don’t have to worry about that now,” she huffed.

“You don’t have to worry about what now?” Sidney questioned.

“I don’t have to worry about fitting into a dress because I can’t find a damn dress,” she cried out loudly.

“What do you mean you can’t find a dress?” Sidney blinked, “You’ve been gone all day long. You didn’t find a dress?”

“No, I didn’t find a dress, Sidney,” she crossed her arms over her chest. “We went to six stores and nothing,” she said as she fought back tears. Sidney walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her. “I am not going to find one,” she cried into his chest, “I am not going to find a dress for the wedding.”

"Nothing in six shops? Really?" Sidney soothed. He felt her body tense beneath his touch and she placed her hands on his chest to push out of his grasp.

"Yes, really," she hissed, "You can ask Adriana if you don't believe me."

Sidney stepped back and began defensive maneuvers, "I believe you. Can you explain it to me though? I don't understand why it's so hard."

Evie started a tirade about dress lead times which necessitated getting an off the rack dress. The options of those dresses were limited and according to Evie, cheaply made and not good enough. By the end she had worked herself into a lather.

"Evie," he stared into her eyes, "It doesn't have to be the perfect dress. I think you are being too picky."

"YES, IT DOES! IT HAS TO BE PERFECT," she yelled, "I have to look beautiful for you. I have to look beautiful."

Sidney's mind raced. There had to be some sort of solution. "Are you sure that you can't get the other dress?" He asked for confirmation. He had been present, although heavily medicated, during a desperate phone call to Kleinfeld's bridal salon. "Would they sell you the sample dress?" he probed.

Evie's head popped up, "I forgot to ask."

"We'll call Monday," Sidney soothed, "We will find the perfect dress. I promise you. Don't stress yourself out."

Evie inhaled deeply, "Okay. How are you coming on your list? Is the priest set? Can he come down?"

Sid pursed his lips together, "about that…."

Evie stepped back and looked up at his face, "What?"

"Technically according to church law, the marriage ceremony must be performed inside of a church," he answered. When he saw the panic spread across her face, he added "Don't panic, don't panic." She leaned against the kitchen island and crossed her arms. "We can't get married in the eyes of the church here, but we can do that at the July ceremony in Halifax." She moved and began to pace. "Evie, don't panic," he added, "We can have the ceremony here performed by a justice of the peace or wedding officiant. Everything will be legal and we can do the religious part later." She stopped and stared at him. "I already booked the best rated one. We are all set," he smiled.

"Really? Thank you, Beso" she gave him a soft smile "What about the prenup? Does your lawyer have it almost ready?" she asked. Sidney stared at her. Evie crossed her arms again. "Have you even called your lawyer?" she probed, "Well?"

"You were serious? That wasn't a joke?”, he deadpanned.

"Yes, I was serious," she answered, "Of course we need a prenup."

"No, we don't. I am not doing it," he responded, raising his voice. "I can't believe you are even suggesting it. No, no way- It's going NOT to happen."

"Yes, it is. You have to have a prenup to protect your money. Ask the guys. They get prenups," she raised her voice in response.

"Protect my money from whom?" he raised her volume to match hers.

"From gold diggers!" she screamed.

"I am not marrying a golddigger," he stepped forward and screamed, "I am marrying YOU. Are you a gold digger all of a sudden? Since when?"

Evie stepped forward and yelled back, "Do you think I am? Is that what you think?" Downstairs Geno and Letang exchanged glances. The words were unclear but the volume said it all.

"Evie, what the hell are you talking about?" Sidney took his tone up a notch, "You brought up gold diggers. You brought up a prenup, not me!"

"People will ask, Sidney," she brought her voice down a notch.

"So what? Let them ask," he dropped his tone.

"They will think I am taking advantage. They will assume I am only after your money," she insisted.

"And?" his tone rose again.

"What do you mean and?" Her volume rose again.

"I don't give a fuck what other people think. I know that you are not." He yelled, "This is exhausting, Evie. It's tiring and frankly, insulting."

"I just….." her voice lowered, "I just don't want people to think…." Her voice trailed off.

"Look, I know that Thad fucked with your head about that, but when are you going to let it go," he pleaded, "When are going to trust me?"

"I do trust you," she said in a hushed tone."

"You are not acting like it. You are not acting at all," Sidney answered with a pained expression on his face.

"Beso," she took a step towards him, "I do trust you. You know that."

"Then start acting like it," he sighed, "I am going to go back downstairs. I don't want to be around you right now."

"Beso," she stepped toward him and put her hand on his chest, "I don't want to fight. I'm sorry. I don't want to fight."

"Me either," he said, "I will talk to you later." He turned and walked away. When he got downstairs, Geno greeted him with a cold beer. Sidney grabbed it from his hand and took a long swig. "Did everyone hear?" he asked quietly.

"We heard voices but not what was said," the Russian answered casually, "Don't worry. Everyone married. We know women."

Sidney took another swig. He wasn't necessarily embarrassed that his teammates heard them fighting. It was more that they fought at all. He shook his head and tried to clear his head.

He smiled at his phone before he sat. Geno looked over with a grin "See, I told you no worry." Sid nodded his head and relaxed.

Upstairs, in their bedroom, Evie undressed, started a hot shower before she went to pee. She groaned as she wiped. "Damn," she thought to herself, "That explains so much." She also smiled at the memory of Sidney's drug-addled conversation with his parents. Even high as a kite, he knew that her period should start that day. Nothing slipped past his notice.

She took a long, leisurely shower and dressed in soft, fleece pajamas with fuzzy socks. Evie pulled the blanket up to her chin and rested her head on the pillow. She stared at the ceiling and replayed each dress from the day. Surely, one of them would work. As each dress was eliminated in her mind, she tried to force her mind to relax. The adrenaline from her argument with Sidney still pulsed through her veins. She opened her eyes and looked at her phone. It was a little after eight PM.

With a sigh, she stood up and walked out the bedroom. She wandered aimlessly until she eyed the door to the attic. The only thing left unpacked from her official move into Sidney's house were the dozen or so large boxes from her parent's house in Dallas. When she sold the house, the one luxury that she allowed herself were professional packers.

It was too soon after her parent's deaths to go through the contents of the house herself. Each item contained too many memories. With the exception of her bedroom furniture, every single household item was donated to a local thrift shop benefiting LGBT youths. Her bedroom furniture and all personal mementos of her parents were boxed up and delivered to her small grad student apartment. After graduation, the contents were moved to her apartment. Then it moved to her cottage and now to Sidney’s house. She mentally corrected herself- our house. It had been moved to our house.

Evie opened the door and climbed the stairs. The attic was uncluttered. Most of Sidney's mementos were stored either at his parent's home or a climate controlled storage unit. The boxes from her parent's home were stacked neatly to the side.

She walked over to the first box and opened it. Inside were the contents of her childhood bedroom. She took out her phone, turned on Spotify and hit shuffle. Gingerly she picked up the homecoming mum that had been placed on top. Evie's fingers ran over the long ribbons that were bedazzled with glittery letters. Each ribbon contained a different message- Homecoming 2009, HP Scots, HP Belles Captain, Thad and Evie with a heart.

She remembered the pride she felt that night she wore the mum to the game. Thad Wilson was her boyfriend. Together they made quite the power couple. He being the star of the football team and she being a drill team officer. Little did she know at the time that none of it would make a difference in her life. Evie put the mum down and glanced at the rest of the box.

Downstairs, in the basement, Sidney glanced at the stairs every few minutes. It didn't take long for Geno to notice. One of the benefits of being teammates for so long was the ability to decipher the unsaid messages. Sidney's message was loud and clear. He was desperate to find Evie and resolve their conflict, but was unwilling to risk appearing rude to his guests. So when the game ended, Geno stood and abruptly said that it was time for everyone to go. "Go, go, go," the Russian barked, "Sid still recovering. He need Evie to take care of him. Out- everybody out."

Sidney smiled a sly grin and escorted everyone upstairs. No sooner than when the door shut, he started climbing the stairs. He opened the bedroom door and saw the bed empty. "Evie," he called out in case she was in the bathroom. When he received no response, he turned to leave. Possibly she had gone down to the kitchen he thought to himself. As he walked down the hall, he heard the sound of music. He turned in the direction of the sound and saw the door to the attic open.

Sidney climbed the stairs while calling out, "Evie?" When he reached the top, he stopped and gazed at Evie. She sat with her back to him. A box of mementos spread before her and she sang a sad song.

https://youtu.be/9-rKvhsjwKU

That I'm not a princess, this ain't a fairy tale

I'm not the one you'll sweep off her feet

Lead her up the stairwell

This ain't Hollywood, this is a small town

I was a dreamer before you went and let me down

Now it's too late for you and your white horse

To come around

"Evie," Sidney said softly. She turned to him and he saw her tear-stained face. She got up and ran to him. He embraced her as she threw herself into his arms. The song continued as he held her.

Maybe I was naive, got lost in your eyes

And never really had a chance

My mistake, I didn't know to be in love

You had to fight to have the upper hand

I had so many dreams about you and me

Happy endings, now I know

Evie pressed her face and whispered "I'm sorry, Sidney. I am so sorry." He pressed his hand behind her head.

And there you are on your knees

Begging for forgiveness, begging for me

Just like I always wanted but I'm so sorry

Evie leaned back and sang to Sidney who looked confused.

'Cause I'm not your princess, this ain't a fairytale

I'm gonna find someone someday

Who might actually treat me well

This is a big world, that was a small town

There in my rear-view mirror disappearing now

And it's too late for you and your white horse

Now it's too late for you and your white horse

To catch me now

When the song ended,.he questioned, "Evie?" as he wiped her tears, "What are you doing up here? Why are you crying?"

She stepped back and pointed to the boxes. "I couldn't sleep and didn't want to go downstairs. I came up here to go through these boxes." She moved towards them.

"What boxes are they?" he said as he followed her.

"It's stuff from my parent's house. I never had the courage to go through them. I am not sure what made me do it tonight," she explained.

"Why are you crying?" He asked.

She looked back at the open boxes. "These boxes are everything from the Thad years," she offered, "I was going down that not-so-pleasant memory lane when our break-up song came on."

"What's the name of the song?" He asked, curious to learn more.

"White Horse," Evie informed him. She turned to Sidney. "I used to listen to it on repeat after he broke my heart." He pursed his lips and she stepped towards him. "I always focused on the chorus of 'That I'm not a princess, this ain't a fairytale'" she stated as she wrapped her arms around Sidney's waist. She pressed her forehead against his chest and kissed it softly. "I should have focused on 'Cause I'm not your princess, this ain't a fairytale.I'm gonna find someone someday who might actually treat me well," she said gazed into Sidney's eyes.

"I did," she sighed, "I found you. I wasn't his princess, but I am yours. You gave me the fairytale."

He smiled, "Yes, you are. You will always be my princess." He bent down to kiss her softly then he pressed his head against her forehead. "Unfortunately for our fairytale to work, we need to talk about earlier."

"Okay," she replied, "Can I say something in my defense? He nodded his head which caused her head to move in response. "It seems as if I had a surge of monthly hormones that were announcing the arrival of my period. It's not an excuse but it explains my overreaction a little bit, at least to me." She stepped back and sat down on the floor. Sidney followed suit. "The wedding stress is getting to me and I haven't been good about communicating that," she confessed.

He waited patiently for her to continue. "I know that I need to let go of the gold digger fear," she offered, "but I don't understand why you are so adamantly against it."

"I am against it because it is preparing for us to fail. I don't want to think about what may happen if we were to break up," Sidney stammered, "The thought of it gives me heart palpations. If I lose you, I lose everything. I won't care about the money. I won't care about anything." Evie watched as the panic spread through him as he spoke. He was right. Even just speaking about it caused a severe physical reaction.

Honestly, Evie's heart began to race at the thought. She had been so consumed with not wanting to appear like a gold digger that she lost sight of the circumstances that would proceed it. The thought of being separated from Sidney made her heart ache. "I'm sorry, Beso," she whispered, "I thought the prenup would protect you, but I hurt you." She put her hands on either side of his face, "If you don't want a prenup, we don't have to do it. I will drop the subject and we will never talk about it again." Sidney exhaled and she kissed him.

"I don't want one," he admitted, "We don't need one."

"Okay, mark it off the list," she smiled.

They stood silently for a moment. "Want to do another box?", he asked. He walked over and opened the next one. It was much larger than the previous two. Sidney picked up a large, red leather scrapbook embossed with names Vanessa and Mark. He held it up to Evie. She put her hand over her mouth in surprise. "Is this what I think it is?" he asked. She nodded her head. "Let's go downstairs and look at it together," he suggested. She stood, gathered her phone and led him downstairs.

Once they got settled together on the couch, Sidney opened the album. The first page contained a large photo of Mark proposing to Vanessa on one knee. On the opposite page, she had written the story of Mark's proposal. The evening was supposed to be a celebration of Mark's graduation from law school at SMU. However, right after the obligatory speeches from Mark and his parents, he called Vanessa up to the front to give a speech thanking her support before dropping to one knee. Sidney silently read the story while Evie looked at his face. "Wow," he said, "That was a sweet proposal." He turned his attention to the picture. His finger touched Vanessa's face. "You really look like them," he said before he turned to face her, "They made a beautiful baby."

"Thank you," she blushed as she turned the page.

When they got to the pages containing Vanessa's bridal portraits, Sidney looked up at Evie. "What are these?" he asked.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

“I thought that your parents got married in December. These pictures are taken in early fall or summer,” he said.

“Oh, those are her bridal portraits. I think it may be a southern thing,” she explained. “Brides get dressed up in their gowns and take pictures. It’s like a trial run of the wedding day for hair and make-up. Then one of the pictures gets enlarged and displayed at the wedding.”

“Oh,” he said and looked at the picture again. “That dress is gorgeous.”

“Yeah,” Evie said softly, “Once I decided to embrace the princess vibe, it was the style I wanted to emulate. My original dress was slightly different though. It was strapless, not off the shoulder.”

Sidney continued to stare as he flipped through the pages. “Where were the pictures taken?” he asked.

“At the arboretum,” Evie replied, “I was planning on going down once I got my dress and take bridal portraits there too. I am not sure now.”

When they got to the photos of the actual wedding ceremony and reception, Sidney thoughtfully looked at each page. “I can see why you wanted a Christmas wedding now, “ he said, “Everything is beautiful. Will ours look similar?” Evie smiled and explained the details that would be similar such as her bouquet and aisle decor. Then she explained the items that would be different like the cake and reception lighting.

Sidney yawned as she talked. It was his first full day off of pain medicine. His body was feeling the effects. He readily agreed when she suggested bed. After they slid under the covers, Evie rested her head on his chest and closed her eyes. "It's too bad you can't find a dress like your mother's dress," Sidney yawned, "It would be perfect."

"Yeah," Evie agreed, "I have no idea where to look."

They drifted off to sleep. Eventually Evie rolled over and curled into a ball. She floated into a deep sleep and began to dream.

Evie stood in a bridal suite of an unknown wedding venue. She wore nothing but the embroidered panties she had purchased especially for the wedding. There was a loud knock on the door, which startled her. "Evie!" Adriana called out, "It's time. They are about to start the music." Her head swiveled around, saw her reflection in the mirror and began to panic. She brought up her arm to cover her bare breasts.

"Evie, " Taylor called, "Are you dressed yet? Sid’s waiting on you.” Evie turned to look to where her bridal gown was supposed to be hung and the space was empty. She raced around the suite to search for the dress, but found nothing.

Taylor called again, “Evie, come on!”

A familiar voice called out from behind her, "Give us ten minutes." Evie swirled around. Her mother, Vanessa, stood near the couch, holding Evie's satin bridal robe. She held out her arms and Evie raced into them. "Mi Chiquita," her mother soothed, "Where is your dress?"

"I couldn't find one. I don't have one to wear," Evie sobbed.

"Why didn't you want to wear my dress? I kept it for you," she kissed the top of Evie's head.

Evie's head snapped up, "What do you mean you kept it for me?"

Vanessa pointed to the box on the couch. Evie ran to look at it and ripped it open. Her mother's dress was neatly folded within it. Evie took the dress out and held it gingerly against her body. "Try it on," her mother suggested. Evie stepped into the dress and turned to her mother for assistance. She zipped up the dress and together they stated at Evie's reflection.

Vanessa smiled, "Chiquita, it's like it was made for you."

"Why didn't you tell me, Mami?" Evie whispered, "It has always been my dream dress."

"I planned to tell you. I was just going to tell when you got engaged. I thought I had time but….," her voice trailed off.

"But you left me," Evie looked her mother in the eye, "You left me all alone. I needed you and you left me."

"Oh Evie," Vanessa put her hand on Evie's face, "I should have stayed. I shouldn't have left you when you needed me the most."

"Why didn't you stay?" Evie cried, "Didn't you want to stay?"

"I didn't want to leave," Vanessa explained, "I was drowning in grief. I couldn't find my way to the surface. I didn't know a way out so I gave up. I couldn't see how much it was going to hurt you, baby."

They stared at each other for a moment. "I regret it," Vanessa said, "I regret that I am not going to be here for your wedding day. I regret not being here to meet Sidney and my grandbabies. I regret leaving you alone. I wish I could stay with you forever. I don't want to leave you alone."

"I am not alone anymore. Sidney is with me," Evie said, almost defiantly. "I have a family now and they love me," she said.

"I know," Vanessa said, "Go, go and join your new family. Let them love you and take care of you." Vanessa turned to go.

Mami," she cried, "You didn't tell me where the dress is."

"You were so close. It's there. Dig deeper" she said

"Mami," Evie cried out, "Mami, don't go! Don't leave me!"

Vanessa ran back and squeezed her daughter tight, "I will see you again Mi Chiquita. Daddy and I love you. I will see you again."

"Mami, don't leave," Evie cried over and over as her mother disappeared.

Besides her, Sidney stirred to the sounds of Evie's cries. He wrapped his body around hers and kissed her head. "Evie, I am here. You are okay. I am here."

Evie woke up with a start, "Beso?"

"Yes, Mon Etoile," he whispered, "I am here. Were you having a nightmare?"

"Yes, about the wedding dress," she answered, "Then my mom came and helped me. We found a dress together." Evie wasn't sure why she felt to keep the details about the dress a secret, but she did. "We talked and she said she was sorry that she left me alone. When it was time for her to go, she said she didn't want to leave me alone again."

Evie rolled over and stared at Sidney. "I told her that I am not alone anymore. I have you and I have a family again. I am not alone."

"And I will never leave you and not come back," Sidney stated firmly as he caressed her cheek, "I will never leave you alone."

"I love you, Beso" she sighed.

"I love you, too," he said, "let's go back to sleep."

"Okay," she kissed him softly before rolling over again. She relaxed as he wrapped her in his arms again. "It was nice though- to see her in my dream. It was almost like she was here."

"I bet it was," he squeezed her tight, “I bet it helped you so much.”

NOVEMBER 23RD- SIDNEY'S HOUSE-SEWICKLEY

Evie stood in the kitchen when she heard the doorbell. She shouted, "Come in!" as she watched Sidney make coffee for her.

Adriana walked into the house and meandered into the kitchen after petting Sam. "Please tell me that you are in a better mood," she laughed as she entered. Evie had moved closer to Sidney and stood behind him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her cheek on his back. She sighed contentedly as he worked. "Ahhhh, it seems so," she grinned, "Behold the power of the Beso. We should call you the Evie Tamer."

Sidney shook his head and smiled, "Nah, I prefer Evie in her natural wild state." He felt Evie giggle into his back and kiss him gently. "I will leave you ladies to your dress hunt," he teased, "Keep the faith. I think your dream was a good sign."

Evie walked him to the door and waved as he pulled out of the garage. She turned around and said, "Come with me." Adriana followed as Evie marched to the attic.

"Evita," Adriana called from behind, "I thought we were hunting for a dress?"

"We are," she replied as they climbed the stairs to the attic. Evie opened the door and ran to the box that Sidney took the wedding scrapbook from. On top was her baby book, then her baby blanket on top of the dress that she wore home from the hospital. Underneath was a large padded envelope with every card that Evie had given her parents. Finally she reached the bottom and saw the sealed white cardboard box with Stardust Bridal embossed across the front. Evie let out a loud squeal as she lifted the box. "Holy shit, it's heavy," she said with the excitement barely contained.

"What's heavy?" Adriana asked.

"I think it's my mom's wedding dress," Evie looked up.

"What?" Adriana responded.

Evie set the box down and used the box cutter to carefully open the edges of the box as she explained the dream about her mother to Adriana.

"So that's the dress?" Adriana rushed to assist Evie. Together they got the lid off of the box. Evie's hand delicately touched the white beaded satin gown. Adriana looked at Evie as the tears ran down her face.

"Try it on, try it on, try it on," Adriana shouted. Evie stripped off her clothes and stepped in the dress. She turned to let Adriana zip the dress. It fit Evie like a glove. It dawned on her that she didn't have a mirror so Adriana took a picture. "You need a petticoat, but it looks amazing," she gushed.

"I can't believe it," Evie grazed her fingers over the beaded lace, "Mami married my dad in this dress on the same date. That has to be good luck, right."

"It's the best luck," Adriana said as she surprised herself with tears, "but you don't need luck, Evita. Gringo Boy and you are meant to be."

"Are you ever going to quit calling him that," Evie grinned.

"When he makes me an Aunt?", she laughed. "Let's go find you a petticoat and veil. Then you can officially mark it off of your list."

"Don't forget your dress," Evie interjected.

"Damn," Adriana asked, "You are really going to make me wear matching dresses with Taylor?"

Evie paused, "Fine- y'all decide on a color - deep red, black or metallic gold and pick whatever dress you want."

December 5th- Sidney and Evie's house- Sewickley

Evie woke up to the sensation of Sidney's lips and tongue on her neck while his hand roamed under her pajama top. In the weeks since his surgery, Evie had developed the habit of wearing pajamas to bed to remove "temptation" for Sidney as he recovered. Behind her, she felt as hips grinded into her. She looked back to gauge whether he was fully awake or asleep. Another habit that developed is Sidney, while fully asleep, initiated sex with this exact same behavior. Evie would politely, yet firmly, remove his hands from her body while whispering explanations of "It hasn't been three weeks, Beso." and "Keep your hands to yourself, please."

She was fully prepared to do the same when he whispered hoarsely, "It's three weeks today, Mon Etoile. It's been three weeks." Her body, full of pent-up sexual energy, began to respond. When his hand slid under the elastic waistband of her pajama pants, she moaned softly as it made its way between her legs. However, her mind raced to control the situation. Her hand went to his hand that began to explore her folds. She grabbed his hand and pulled it out of her pants. Evie then delicately extricated herself from his grasp and wiggled to the far side of the bed.

Sidney groaned and wiggled to follow her. She rolled over and placed her hand against his chest. Sidney was fully awake and aroused. "Evie, it's been three weeks exactly," he whined, "I need you. I need you so much. Look at how hard I am for you."

Evie resisted the urge to glance at his erection pressed tight against his boxers. "Listen," she said with authority, "I have been thinking about this."

"Less thinking and more fucking," Sidney said with a grin. When she did not return then grin, he asked, "Thinking what?"

"I want to wait," she replied. The look of disbelief conveyed all of his thoughts without saying a word. "Beso, we have already waited this long. I want to wait until our wedding night. I want that night to be special," she added.

Sidney blinked slowly, inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly. "Are you serious?" he asked. He studied her face and her sincerity was obvious. He pinched his nose, "Tell me why again."

"I want the first time as your wife to be special," she explained.

"I think that being the first time married would automatically make it special," he countered, "Besides, I am fairly sure that the first time is going to be pretty quick."

Evie smiled sweetly, "I know that it doesn't make a lot of sense given the amount of times that we have fucked and other things. It means a lot to me. It's almost like I will be a virgin again."

"A virgin?" he smirked. He rolled over and placed his forearm over his eyes. Evie watched him mentally process her words. "If that's what you want," he sighed. He perked back up. "Hey, do virgins give handjobs?", he asked. Evie got up from the bed and walked toward the bathroom. "I'm kidding, Evie," he called out. She turned and crossed her arms. He gave her a big grin. She smiled and shook her head.

Evie continued her walk to the bathroom and stripped her pajamas off as she walked. Sidney watched her from the bed. He stood up, walked to the bathroom door and leaned against the door frame. His gaze went from the top of her head and down the length of her nude body. He licked his lips as she stepped into the shower. He looked down as she poured body wash and lathered her smooth skin. His hand went into his boxers and started to stroke his throbbing cock. She called out to him, "I see you, Beso."

"I can't help it," he whined.

"I did it in May," she teased.

"Is this payback for the playoffs?" he laughed, "That's not fair!" She opened the door and stuck out her tongue. "Pretty please? You gotta help me out here," he pouted.

She smiled, closed the door and put on a show while he jerked his hand back and forth. When she heard the tell-tale grunts and groans of his orgasm, she called out, "You're welcome, Beso."

"You need to be ready Saturday night," he said breathlessly, "I am going to fuck you senseless."

"You better," she teased.

TWO HOURS LATER-ALLEGHENY COUNTY MARRIAGE BUREAU

Sidney grabbed Evie's hand as she came around the back of the car and led her up the stairs to the courthouse. Their completed marriage license waited for them to pick it up. Sidney sighed as they reached the back of the line. His status as Pittsburgh Penguins Captain opened doors and parted lines all across the city, country and world. Unfortunately, it was not effective at the marriage license bureau and he was forced to stand in line like the rest of the prospective grooms.

Sidney pulled his cap lower on his head. Evie pulled up her hoodie and grinned up at him. He reached for her hands and pulled her into his body. She whispered, “Maybe wearing the Penguins hat wasn’t the best idea?”

He kissed the top of her head, “What are you afraid of? I don’t care if people know that I am marrying you.”

Evie looked up, “Oh, I know that.”

He flashed a smile, “Then what are you afraid of?”

She returned his smile, “I am afraid that someone in this office or in this line will decide to leak that we have a marriage license before Saturday night. The wedding is supposed to be a surprise, right?”

They moved up with the line. Sidney glanced around, “You’re right. What if I hide in the bathroom and you text me when you get up there.” He kissed her quickly and escaped to the restroom.

Twenty minutes later, Evie texted Sidney. As she waited, the clerk pulled out the marriage license. “Ms. Montgomery, I just need you to confirm that information is correct,” the clerk whispered. Evie looked up and smiled, thankful for the quiet tone. She studied the license carefully. When she was sure that all the information was correct, she looked up and smiled. “Good,” the clerk smiled, “I will tell you that I am not sure that I can prevent this from getting leaked. We have some die hard Pens fans around here.”

Evie leaned forward, “I just need it to stay secret until Saturday.” She reached into her wallet and fished for cash. She came up with a crisp one hundred dollar bill and slid it across the counter. “Can you help us with that?”, she smiled.

“Your secret is safe with me,” the clerk smiled, “Tell Mr. Crosby congratulations. He landed himself a beauty. He’s a lucky man.”

“We are both lucky,” she smiled back. Evie was walking down the hall. Her eyes searched for Sidney. She shrieked as a hand grabbed her hand and pulled into an alcove by a courtroom. “Sidney!” she gasped and playfully swatted his chest, “You scared me.”

Sidney held a finger up to his mouth and shushed her. He whispered, “Did you get the license?” Evie looked around quickly, noted the presence of a young couple then shook her head affirmatively. “Good,” Sidney whispered, “My new friend, Harry, and his fiancée need a favor from us.”

Evie turned to look at Harry, who appeared to be in his early twenties, dressed in freshly pressed slack and buttoned down shirt. Next to him was a very pretty, yet very pregnant brunette, who wore a short white lace dress with an empire waist. The young man extended his hand, “Hi, I am Harry and this is my fiancée , Marissa.” He looked at his fiancée with a look of love that rivaled Sidney’s. “I had the good fortune to run into Sid in the men’s room. I mean what are the odds that I would run into my hockey hero here at the marriage license office.” Sidney moved closer to Evie and slid his arm around her waist as Harry continued to speak. “Anyway, Marissa and I want to get married today, but our witnesses flaked out on us. It’s really important that we get married today. Marissa is due any day now and we want to be married before the baby comes.” Evie looked at Sidney and then at Marissa and nodded her head in understandment. “So would you be willing to do it for us? It would mean the world to us if you could help us out.” he asked hopefully.

“Absolutely! I would be honored to witness your ceremony,” Evie said brightly as she leaned into Sidney’s body. Just then the courtroom doors opened and the previous couple walked out, followed by a gaggle of family and friends. Marissa let out a soft sigh. Evie took her hand and whispered, “You look gorgeous and radiant. Let’s go get you married to your man.”

They all walked in together and took their positions in front of the judge. Marissa cradled her bump and grinned up at Harry. The elderly judge cleared his throat, "Please join hands." The young couple joined hands.

Evie pulled out her phone and nudged Sidney to do the same. When he looked at her in question, she gestured that he needed to take video of the ceremony. It took a moment before he grinned and nodded in understatement. Both armed with cameras, they turned as the judge began the ceremony.

We’re here today to witness the union of Harry and Marissa in marriage. Today, you begin a new life together, founded in love, laughter, honesty, respect, and friendship. The promises you make to each other today should not be taken lightly. A marriage is more than a ceremony – it is a lasting and lifelong commitment.

Evie felt tears filling her eyes. She imagined her own wedding to Sidney. While the script would be different, the universal nature of marriage became apparent to her. She and Sidney would soon join the club so-to-speak.

Do you, Harry, take Marissa to be your spouse and to live together as partners, to treat them with love and respect, and to build a marriage that grows stronger and more loving as time passes?

Harry: Yes, I do.

Evie looked to Sidney. He turned his head to look at her while holding the camera straight. He mouthed the words "I do".

And do you, Marissa, take Harry to be your spouse and to live together as partners, to treat them with love and respect, and to build a marriage that grows stronger and more loving as time passes?

Marissa: Yes, I do.

Sidney stared as Evie wiped her tears and mouthed the word, "I do."

The brief ceremony continued with the exchange of simple gold bands. Evie continued with her self-imposed duty of the wedding photographer but felt as Sidney's hand searched for her hand. She gave it to him to hold.

By the virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of Pennsylvania, I now pronounce you married.

You may kiss! Congratulations!

Sidney and Evie cheered wildly as the young lovers sealed their marriage with a kiss. The foursome stood by the courtroom doors as the judge completed the paperwork. Harry shook Sidney's hand, "I can't tell how much this means to us. To have Sidney Fucking Crosby as our witness, man, we are blessed."

Evie giggled and gazed at Sidney. He smiled joyously, "It was an honor to be included. I hope you have a wonderful life together, especially with that little Penguin on the way."

Marissa joked, "Just wait until everyone hears about it. They will be so jealous." Sidney and Evie exchanged a look. Sidney looked at Marissa, "About that.". He pulled out his wallet and pulled out ten crisp one hundred dollar bills. "If you could not tell the part about us until Sunday morning, we would be really grateful," he said smoothly as he palmed the cash to Harry, "We are trying to pull off a surprise wedding Saturday night."

Harry and Marissa gasped at the cash, "Oh yes, we can keep a secret."

Evie interjected, "Where are you spending your wedding night?"

Marissa blushed, "He is taking me to the Cheesecake Factory and then home."

Evie smiled, "If you would allow me, I would love to arrange a night at the Fairmont for you. You can have the best suite available. Everything is on us." Harry and Marissa tried to object. "Please let us do it for you. This has been such a treat for us to witness," Evie argued as Sidney wrapped his arm around her waist. Her spontaneous generosity was just another reason he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. Evie sent a few texts and exchanged numbers with Marissa to send pics.

They waited while Harry and Marissa exited. As soon as they left and they were alone in the courtroom, Sidney pulled Evie into an embrace. She laughed as he showered her with kisses. "Eighty hours," he whispered, "Eighty hours until I can call you my WIFE."

"I can't wait,Beso," she smiled.

"Me either," he kissed her passionately.

#never ever have i #sidney crosby romance #sidney crosby fic #sidney crosby fiction #sidney crosby imagine #nhl imagine #nhl fic #nhl fiction #hockey romance #pittsburgh penguins imagine #pittsburgh penguins romance

64 notes · View notes