Friday, September 18, 2009

Hiatus

Hi Gang of loyal followers...

I know I know I'm a horrible person for not updating. Believe me when I say that Love and War is NOT finished... it's just being put on the back burner...

If you'd like check out the two stories holding all my attention right now....

On Thin Ice

http://onthinice29.blogspot.com

Is a MAF story and honestly has been an absolute blast to write.

The other is an 8 man tag team. The one I write in is:

In More Places than One...
http://inmoreplacesthanone.blogspot.com

I write Sid's POV

And it's cohort
Oh yes, It's happening
http://team--chicago.blogspot.com

That's all for now... sorry again... :)

Friday, August 14, 2009

.18.

STACI'S POV

I hung back from entering the room with everyone. I watched the fatherly looking man, I assumed was the Mario person Marc mentioned on the ride over, watch over Sidney as he slowly went into the room. I just wanted to cry. Something about Sidney just made my heart break.

I took a deep breath and stepped into the room being swept away by a small blond woman.

"Staci, I'm glad you're wearing Mario's jersey. It was the first he ever wore as a Penguin." She smiled putting me at ease and making me feel uncomfortable all at the same time.

"Ohh... I'll be sure to return it." I smiled shyly stealing a glance at Sidney and Mario.

"Nonsense! It's a gift. Mario gave it to me so long ago and now I'm giving it to you. Just like --" I turned back in time to see Vero glaring at the tiny blond. She cleared her throat uncomfortable before continuing. "Just like Marc-Andre gave Veronique." She smiled uneasily before leading me to the chairs.

I glanced around the stands as they quickly began to fill. I saw Fleury and Talbots scattered through the crowd. A lot of Lemeiux, but even more Crosbys. Who was Crosby? Why was he so popular?

The girls chattered harmlessly and I blocked out most of the conversation. I didn't care what Brooks and Erin, or Tyler and Lilly were doing. I didn't even know who those people were! I smiled and nodded at the correct places, keeping up the act of listening as I stole a glance at Sidney, meeting his eyes square on. I blushed deeply and lowered my gaze quickly. My eyes fell to my hands as my mind flashed.

Deep hazel eyes stared back at me. Bee stung lips curled in a smile redder than they usually were. I blushed realizing what we'd just finished doing.

"Je t'aime, Stace." The hazel eye'd boy whispered into my ear.

"You have a horrible accent." I whispered looking up to see Vero and the blond woman both staring at me. "What?"

"Staci, you were speaking English." Vero whispered. "Nathalie?"

"What were you thinking of?" The blond, Nathalie asked. "You said something about a horrible accent."

"A boy..." I whispered glancing sideways at Sidney. "A boy I think I used to love... Or do love..." The two women both squealed in excitement urging me to go on. I shrugged not having much more to say. I was saved by Sidney scrapping his chair loudly across the floor and storming out. In a way... "Is he okay?" I asked the room after the door slammed behind him.

"He's had a rough few days." Mario smiled sadly. "He'll be ok." I nodded and turned my attention to the ice below me. The game didn't hold my attention at all. I was to busy trying to figure out what the flash meant... Who was the boy? Was he still in my life? Did he give me this ring? UGH! I just wanted to remember everything right now! As soon as the game ended, I don't even know who won, I followed Vero down through a maze of corridors and into a brightly lit room.

"Where are we, Vero?" I asking running my hand over the golden wood of the bar, it all seemed so familiar. But why?

"The family room." She smiled watching me as I ran my fingers against the pictures hung on the wall. I nodded gently as my thoughts turned again to my flash of memory.

"Vero, did I love someone before the accident?" She didn't respond. I moved to run my fingers across a picture of Mario and Sidney standing like father and son. I glanced at my ring, still perched on the ring finger of my left hand. "It's not Max is it?" I turned to face her and saw Max standing next to her.

"No, it was never me." He smiled. "The boy you love is a way stronger person than I am." I nodded and crossed the room to him, before kissing his cheek gently.

"I still love you, Max... Just not that way." His natural grin returned as I kissed his other cheek. I turned slightly to Vero, concern falling across my face. "Are you sure no one should go after Sidney? He looked so upset..."

"The kid stormed out?" Max's face fell slightly as I nodded. "Shit! I think I know where he went." He started towards the door before turning back to us. "Do you ladies have twenty cents by any chance?" I dug around in my purse, pulling out two dimes.

"Sure, Max, why?" I handed him the coins, confused.

"I might want a burger... And I like exact change." He winked and ran out the door before I had a chance to argue. I turned back to Vero and saw that Marc had joined her.

"What did I miss?" He asked completely lost.

"Nothing, Marc. Let's go home." Vero soothed leading us both out the door.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

.17.

SID'S POV

Three days later and we were gathered in the waiting room again. This time Claire, Guy, Laura and Brian joined us. Of course Jordan was there too. Today... Staci was getting out of the hospital. She still had no memories and was still attached to Max. She seemed to feel uncomfortable around anyone who wasn't Max, Flower, or Vero. Even her own family.

I didn't know how long I could take this for....

I held a large box in front of me as Max went to get Staci. We were taking her to our game so Jordan, Max, Flower and I were in our suits. You know, crutches make really crappy accessories. Two more weeks and I'd be able to get rid of them. I hope. The box... The box contained a jersey. It took us all a long time to decide how to handle this. She always wore my Rimouski jersey, I gave it to her when we were seventeen, but under the circumstances we thought she'd feel awkward in it. So the box held Mario's jersey.

It was a compromise of sorts. She won't wear my jersey, and it would kill me to see her in Max's. We thought about getting her Flower's. But Mario suggested his. That way no one on the team could get offended or angry that she wasn't wearing his, and she would see a lot of them at the game.

Claire drew in a sharp breath as Max gingerly led her out of her room. To those who hadn't seen her yet after the accident she was unrecognizable. Her right arm was completely bandaged. Her brow was scarred and deformed her forehead, making it almost impossible for her to raise one of her gorgeous eye brows. Her mouth... Her beautiful mouth was marred by a large angry scar that started at her left temple and cut through her alabaster skin to her chin, through both lips; keeping the left side of her mouth in a permanent scowl. But no matter how much her injuries cut through me, knowing they were my own fault, she still glowed that same beauty as she did before. As if she was truly my own personal angel sent to Earth to keep me sane. Except my perfect angel.... Didn't even know me.

She timidly came out of the room, her hair, well the wig that Max got her, shielded most of her face. Vero nodded to me and we both stepped forwards.

“Staci, nous nous sommes tout réunis pour t'obtenir ceci.” (Staci, we all got together to get you this) She started as I held out the box for her. Staci turned her ruined brow to Max in a silent question. He nodded gently before she stepped forward and slowly lifted the jersey out of the box. She smiled sweetly as her gaze met ours.

“Merci.” (Thank you) She whispered before getting Max to help her put it on. It hurt so bad to see I had to physically turn my back on the scene. Vero caught my discomfort and went to lead Staci out of the hospital.

After watching her have a small panic attack getting into Flower's SUV, the black version of my own, (I really had to hold back from running to her and smoothing her hair in comfort) we were off to Mellon.

Jordan, Max and Flower headed down to the dressing room to get ready while Staci, Vero, the Régnier's and I made our way to the Lemieux's box.

Mario and Nathalie were there to greet us. Nathalie put Staci instantly at ease by quickly speaking to her in French and leading both girls to the chairs overlooking the ice. I stood near the doorway, watching them, not moving; not wanting to disturb Staci's new found comfort. I was so absorbed in my daze I didn't see Mario until he was right next to me.

“I know it's hard to stand back and watch, Sidney.” He smiled at me in a fatherly fashion. “But be patient. She'll be back. She loves you. She just has to remember that.” I nodded sadly before taking my eyes off of her and brought them to his.

“I know, Mario, it's just so hard. I want to be the one to comfort her. Flower and Vero are letting them stay with them. But she should be with me.” I sighed and lowered my eyes as he nodded.

“I know son. Let’s just watch the game for now. Take your mind off of it all.” I returned his nod and sat in the chair furthest from her.

The game seemed to crawl as I would watch her more than I would the ice. She fell into a comfort zone, gossiping in French to Vero and Nathalie. About three minutes into the second period I violently rose from my seat. Every pair of eyes in the room turned to stare at me in surprise.

“Sorry,” I mumbled before starting towards the door. “I can’t do this…” I sighed hobbling as quickly as I could down the hall and to my SUV.

Five minutes later I sat on a tall bar stool at a little dive down the road from Mellon, my crutches propped up next to me.

“Double jack, neat.” I mumbled to the bartender who quickly poured the drink. I downed it almost the same instance it hit the bar and order straight Jack. “Leave the bottle.” I growled but he left it. It was going to be a long night, and I needed to escape her.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

.16.


SID'S POV

I paced the waiting room, probably in the exact same spot as I was a week ago. I was waiting for that sniveling, spineless bag of... worst excuse for a friend to leave my fiancée's room. After a good few minutes he finally stepped into the waiting room.

“It's not what you think, Sid...” He started cautiously, his hands out in front of him in surrender.

“Then what is it, Max?” I spat his name, stopping where I was and folding my arms so he wouldn't see my hands in fists. “Why doesn't my fiancée know me? And what the hell is she doing with you?”

“I was there when she woke up.” Max shrugged. “Sid, she doesn't really know who I am. Just that my name is Max. Hell she doesn't even know who she is!” He exclaimed throwing his hands in the air. “As for the engagement thing... She must have seen her ring and just assumed... I'm sorry, dude.”

“So go and tell her the truth, Talbot.” I sneared taking a step towards him.

“That's not a good idea.” A voice from behind me cut through my thoughts. I turned my head to see Staci's doctor standing behind us. “Staci has a severe case of retrograde amnesia. You must not push her memories. She needs to remember them herself.”

“How long does this last, doc?” Max asked softly, I nodded my thanks to him, as I couldn't find my voice through the shock.

“Days... Weeks... Months... Sometimes years.” The doctor sighed. “I'm sorry boys, I have no answers for you. We know very little about why amnesia happens and even less about how it works. The best thing you can do for Staci right now is to let her be who she is. Even if you don't recognize it. And, once she's released, take her to things she enjoys. A game perhaps. Her memories should eventually return.”

“Eventually?” I croaked.

“We can't make any guarantees, Mr Crosby. Most people pull through retrograde amnesia, but there is always that one percent.” He nodded at us, his face grim, before turning and heading back the way he came from. With Max's help I slowly sank into one of the uncomfortable chairs.

“Oh God...” I whispered “What do I do?”

“We take her to games. We take her to Diesel. We love her. All of us. And we pray. We pray that she pulls through as quickly as possible.” Max sighed sitting next to me. When did he get so insightful?
I hung my head in disbelief as Flower and Vero ran through the door. They stopped as soon as they saw me, a look of confusion sat on Vero's face.

“What's going on?” Flower asked as Max stood mumbling something about reassuring Staci that he was alive. “Why is Max going in? Sid, what's going on?” I took a deep breath before looking up at my friends.

“Staci... Doesn't really want to see me right now.” I winced as they both gasped, I held my hand up to stop the onslaught of questions before I could continue. “She has retrograde amnesia. She knows Max but only because he was with her when she woke up. And all she really knows is that his name is Max. But she thinks that they're engaged.” My eyes shifted away from them so that they couldn't see the full extent of my pain. Vero, I'm sure, could feel part of it, and came to sit next to me, gently placing her hand on my shoulder in comfort. “The doc told us not to push her. To let her remember on her own. So... Until she remembers she's with Max.” Vero shook her head slowly.

“That won't last, Sidney. She loves you too much to stay with Max.” I glanced up to see her staring at Staci's window. “Besides you two are soul mates. Like magnets. Put you both in a room full of people as far from each other as you can get and it doesn't take long before you're standing back to back. You don't even know you do it.” She turned back to me and smiled. “Head up, cherie, love always wins.”

“It's chin up, Veronique.” Flower whispered from the seat across from us. Vero turned her gaze to him and playfully stuck out her tongue.

“Sidney knows what I mean, Marc-Andre.” I chuckled at my friends.

“Thank you guys,” I smiled. “I'll be okay. Why don't you both go in and see her? I'm sure she'd like that. Besides, she needs all the support she can get right now.” Flower and Vero tore there gaze away from each other and stared at me in disbelief. I nodded encouragingly. Vero stood slowly and kissed the top of my head gently before taking Flower's hand and heading towards Staci's room.

Me? I just sat there, trying to figure out, since I can't play on a busted leg, what I was going to use to get my mind off of Stace, and her not remembering me.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

.15.

Okay hating me is NOT allowed. I'm just the writer, remember that. Some weird stuff to know about. When everyone BUT Staci's in POV French will be written and translated in GREEN. If it's Staci's POV ENGLISH will be italics. Her dream is in BLUE. Enjoy... I did :D


MAX'S POV

“Qui êtes-vous” (who are you) She asked. Under normal circumstances it would be an innocent enough question, probably one I would throw out a sarcastic answer to. But coming from Staci, a woman I've known for four years, it was a blow straight to the gut.

“Je suis Maxime.” I smiled my famous smile. “Vous êtes dans l'hôpital. Il y avait un accident.” (You are in the hospital. There was an accident.) I saw her damaged brow furrow in confusion and I decided it was time to involve someone with more knowledge then me. “Staci, je retournerai. Ne vous déplacez pas.” (I will return. Do not move.) I gave her one last smile before disappearing through the door. I practically ran to the nurses station. Thankfully Nurse Gina was working tonight. “Gina!” I gasped, “Vous ne devinerez jamais...” (You'll never guess) She raised her eyebrow in amusement and I realized I was still speaking French. I cleared my throat. “Staci.. She.. She woke up!” Her eyes flew open in shock and she started towards the room.

“Rally the troops, Maxime!” She grinned. “This girl's gonna need them.” She stopped when she noticed I wasn't grabbing my phone, but rather following her.

“You might need a translator. She's speaking French. And she doesn't seem to remember much.” I shrugged. Gina sighed sadly and motioned for me to follow her. We slowly entered the room to find that Staci had found the buttons to sit her bed up. She was sitting with her arms crossed over her chest, glaring.

“Staci?” Gina cautiously started. “I'm Gina, a nurse here.... How are you feeling dear?” We both watched as her gaze softened.

“Comme ce, comme ca.” She smiled awkwardly, her moth turned into a slight grimace, more injury from the accident. Even with the disfigurements... she still looked beautiful.
Gina stayed for a few minutes running tests and checking her vitals. I took Sid's normal chair as I translated for Gina. Staci smiled at me before offering me her hand, which I took gladly. I started to rub her hand gently as she drifted off.

STACI'S POV

My eyes adjusted slowly and I could finally figure out what was going on. That Maxime guy told me I was in an accident, well that at least explains why that other voice was so sad. He must of caused it. My brow furrowed as Maxime ran out of the room, like he couldn't figure out what to do.

After he left I decided I needed to take an inventory of what was wrong. My right hand was bandaged but I could move the arm easily enough; stiff, a little sore but mobile. I could move both legs, although they were bandaged. I flexed my left hip and winced, that hurt. I started looking around the bed for those buttons, so I could comfortably sit up. AHA! JACKPOT! I smiled in success as I raised myself into a sitting position on the bed, ignoring the pain emanating from my hip. Something caught a small amount of light entering the room and blinded me quickly. Once I was sitting I pulled my left hand towards my face to see what was causing that.

Oh... My... God...

I...was... engaged?????

I stared down at the two-carat brilliant diamond ring perched on my left ring finger. If Maxime and I were engaged why would he tell me right away?

Maybe he felt I had a lot to worry about already. Or maybe he wanted to make sure I was ok first. Yah that had to be it. I sank back into the pillows waiting for the man I was marrying to come back through the door.

At least I think he's the guy I'm marrying........

Mere seconds later a large black woman burst through the door with Maxime right behind her. I glared half-heartedly at him, having not wanted him to bring anyone else back with him. So we could talk... About the ring?

She poke and prodded me for a few minutes and asked me redundant questions, like 'how are you? Are you feeling okay?'

Of course I wasn't feeling okay! I just woke up from a coma. I had no idea who I was or where I was or why I was there. And apparently I have a fiancée. I just assumed it was this Maxime guy because I felt so comfortable around him.

I answered her questions patiently and it must have been satisfactory because after checking the machines around me she left instructing Maxime to call people. What was Sidney?

I smiled easily at the man next to me as he began to rub the back of my hand gently. I fought fruitlessly against the tiredness that swept over me.

I...want... to... talk.........

Flashes surround me, the ring... a lake... Stargazer lilies. I love stargazer lilies. Maxime smiling... goofing off... Two couples waving as we drove off. But... who was that? He seemed so familiar. So... There's no words... Just like I'm meant to know him. A hockey arena. Did I like hockey?
There's that guy with the dark curly hair again. His eyes were so intense. Kind of browny-gold with a little bit of goldy-green. I wanted to know him. I wanted to have his arms wrapped around me.
I watched as the curly haired boy started to disappear and his face was replaced with Maxime's as I blinked myself awake.

“Morning,” he grinned whispering.

“Morning,” I returned his grin. Moving gingerly I placed my bandaged right hand on top of his that was holding my left hand. I could get used to this really easily.

We stayed like this for a while until the door burst open, and the curly-haired boy charged through it, causing my comfortable moment with Maxime to end abruptly. Maxime jumped up off the chair and was around the bed and to my right side in twenty seconds flat as the curly-haired boy stared at me. What? Was I that hideous?

Stace,” he sighed relieved as he crossed the room in two steps to take my hand. I looked at this stranger confused and quickly pulled my hand away from him. “Stace?” his face fell, letting me see the hurt in his eyes. I pulled my left arm across my body and held onto Maxime's arm. Maxime sighed gently and rubbed my forearm in reassurance. The stranger stopped staring at me and brought his eyes up to Maxime. “Max... I think you should join me outside.” He sneered before turning on his heel and stomping out of the room. Maxime slowly prepared to move and my grip tightened.

“Don't go.” I pleaded remembering how angry the stranger looked.

“I'll be fine.” He smiled and leaned into my hair before whispering, “don't worry.” I let him go with slight remorse and sat back as he walked into the lobby, turned lion's den.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

.14.

Well now aren't y'all just spoiled today... Two posts in one night. Don't get used to it though... It won't always happen. Again some french with translations in THIS colour. I'm sorry if the French is horrible, to those who speak it. I'm using an electronic translator, and they aren't the best.


SID'S POV

I sat and waited... I talked, I apologized, I prayed... nothing worked, so now... I sat. Holding her hand I silently begged her to wake up. Come on, Stace, I'd cry to the universe. Just open your eyes.... Please...

I'm sure I stunk. I traded my wheelchair in for a pair of crutches, but they sat unused in the corner. I hadn't left her side. I didn't care. I wasn't leaving. I ate whatever Max, or Flower, would bring me; the girls wouldn't even enter the room anymore.

I was pathetic.

Then the door opened and Nathalie walked in. I could tell from her perfume. She quietly took Staci's bandaged right hand, while I gently lifted her left and held it against my cheek.

“Her engagement ring?” Sh asked quietly. I smiled sadly and pulled it out of my shirt pocket. She reached over and covered my hand with hers. “Maybe she'd like it back, non? Then you're always here with her.” She smiled encouragingly and nodded as I replaced my beloved's ring on her finger. Somehow it felt right. “Now, Sidney,” she whispered her eyes showing her concern. “When was the last time you were home? Slept? Showered?” I shrugged and averted my gaze back to Staci, more so I could get away from Nat. “Sidney... Go home... Get a good night's sleep. Staci's parents are here and I'm sure Claire and Guy would like some time with her. Even Marc, Vero and Max.” I sighed deeply and kissed Staci's hand gently.

“You're right, Nathalie. I need to go home.” I saw her release a relieved breath and she stood quickly as I rose slowly from the bed. She grabbed my crutches for me as I leaned down and gently kissed Staci's forehead. “I'll be back, Stace. I love you. I'm sorry....” I took the crutched from Nathalie and slowly heading into the waiting room.... And the onslaught.

MAX'S POV

I sat and waited as first Sid came out of the room and was accosted by not only his parents, but hers as well (that was the third couple, Guy told me). Mrs Crosby quickly shoo'd him out to the car and the Lacoix's and Régnier's went to Staci's room. Jordan went with them. Support for Laura (yeah right! Support for Jordan more like.... he's like a little puppy now...).
After about half an hour they came back. Mme Lacoix looked like she had been crying, as the men all escorted their women out to the cars.

Flower and V were next. I sat alone in the waiting room, staring at all the different motivational posters. How did these really help? Did they actually work? Did people find them uplifting and helpful?

Keep your face towards the sun and you will never see the shadows!

Times are tough, HANG IN THERE!

Really? Give me a break!

They should have...

Your family member is dying, but be happy!

I sighed and leaned my head back against the wall and closed my eyes. I'll just sleep a bit... Just until they're done. A few minutes tops.



Flower gently shook me awake, I blinked open my eyes to see both of my friends with red eyes.

“Nous allons à la maison, Maxime.” (We are going home, Maxime) Flower whispered. “Voyez-toi le matin.” (See you in the morning.) I nodded and rubbed at my face, waking up. I watched them both exit the hospital before standing and slowly starting towards Staci's room.

Seeing her lying there helpless wasn't a shock, per sey, but it wasn't easy either.

“Hey, Stace.” I smiled sitting in the empty chair on the left side of her bed. I knew Sid had been talking to her in French. Flower and V too... It's what she spoke. But English wasn't working, so I figured I'd try French. “Chacun est si sérieux et triste dedans ici. Je vais vous rire éveillé.” (Everyone is so serious and sad in here. I am going to laugh you awake.) I grinned and leaned back in the chair, taking her hand. “Prêt?” (Ready?) I cleared my throat.

“Qu'appelez-vous laitue épileptique?.... Seizure salad! (What do you call epileptic lettuce?)

“Ce qui vous appellent l'aide d'un magicien mort?... An abracadaver! (What do you call a dead magician's assistant?)

“Ce qui vous appellent l'association des donateurs de sang?... The IV League!” (What do you call the Association of Blood Donors?) I laughed loudly and let go of her hand so I could slap my knee. Once my laughter died down and I could re-open my eyes, I looked down at her to see her bright blue eyes staring back at me.

“Où je suis?” (Where am I?) She asked confused and surprisingly in French.

Merde.

.13.

Okay, here's chapter 13 and 14 is in the works, so hopefully it won't be so long of a wait this time. Drama, drama, drama!



STACI'S POV

I could hear and feel so much. Which is weird because I was trapped in this world of darkness. I could hear the beeping of machines somewhere around me. I could feel something going into my left arm, it felt cold... Sometimes burning slightly.

My nose was itchy. I know it sounds weird, but it was driving me nuts! I just wanted to reach up and scratch it, but my arm wouldn't listen to what my brain was telling it to do. I tried desperately to scrunch my nose, hoping that would stop the itch... but... nothing....

I focused on the voice next to me instead. It was nice... Smooth, soft, like velvet. But it had this ache to it. It made me want to reach out and hug whoever it belonged to.

After what I assumed where days my sad voice disappeared and was replaced with a happy one. One that told me inappropriate jokes that made me want to howl with laughter.

The differences in my voices were extreme. The first, so sad... Sometimes there was more than just his, but all were the same sadness, the same... ache... His voice made me want to jump out of the bed and tell him that it's not his fault. I wondered what he'd done to make him so apologetic.
The other, jovial and safe. It was comforting and uplifting. Making me believe I could do anything. Including pull myself out of this darkness. I wanted to... For that voice.

MAX'S POV

We all sat back and watched him slip further into a depression as the days crept by and Staci still didn't open her eyes. Jack, Colby, and Mel had gone home. Their own teams and families needing them. We too had gone back to work.

Well... Most of us...

Captain Crosby just sat there by her bed... Day in... Day out...

“It's not healthy!” Jordan burst suddenly, tightening his hold on young Laura, momentarily, before loosening his grip, apologizing profusely. Claire and her husband, Guy, sat across the waiting room from the pair.

“At least he's here and hasn't tried to kill himself.” I shrugged. Laura gasped and buried her face deeply into Jordan's chest. Claire turned to glare at me, while Guy turned his anger to Jordan and his daughter. I wasn't trying to be harsh, but we all knew Sid, and his melodramatic tendencies.

“Has anyone talked to Mario?” V's soft voice shocked us all. Every head in the waiting room turned to her. She cleared her throat and smiled at Flower as he kissed her hand. “I'm just thinking that maybe... Just maybe, he'd listen to Mario. He hasn't listened to anyone else...” We all exchanged looks. We knew V was right, but no one really wanted the wrath of Sid when he found out who narced.

As we silently debated who would be the one to call the Lemieux's, salvation swept through the front door. Mario and Nathalie led the way, Mr and Mrs Crosby were directly behind them and there was a couple I didn't recognize bringing up the back.

Flower and V were the first ones up. Crossing the small space they met Mario and Nathalie quickly. Nobody moved as the four of them whispered amongst themselves. Occasionally someone would glance towards Staci's room. After only a few minutes Mr. Crosby stepped forward to join their conversation.

We watched as Mario explained the situation and Mr. Crosby took steps towards his son, looking angry and concerned at the same time. Someone, I think it was Jordan, gasped as Nathalie stopped him simply by placing her hand on his chest. She looked up at her husband and after receiving a small nod, headed towards the room that held Sid and Staci.

It's coming!!

I know... I know... I'm a horrible person for leaving you hanging for so long.

An update is in the works... About half way?

Should be up tonight. I hope.

Thank you ALL for your patience.

Friday, July 17, 2009

.12.

SID'S POV

I paced up and down the waiting area of the hospital. Ok, I wheeled. Staci was just beyond those double doors.

The accident that placed me in this wheelchair with a broken femur, a few cracked ribs, and some scrapes and bruises had also placed Staci, my Staci, beyond those double doors. She was in her third surgery in as many days. This one, however, was taking longer than the others. Her nurse, Gina, said that was a good thing, it meant she was strong and could handle the surgery itself. But that didn't mean she was ever going to wake up.
I sighed loudly before turning the wheelchair I was bound to and headed back the other direction.

“Sid, man, you're denting the floor; I can see the grooves.” Colby, my best friend since moving to Pittsburgh chuckled, half serious. I looked up and glared at him, catching the concerned look in Mel's, his girlfriend, eye. “Dude, don't bite my head of with your evil eyes. She's going to be fine. Stop freaking out.” I shook my head, sighing again, as I turned to head the way I started.

About two feet down in my direct path stood my childhood friend, and Staci's, Jack. I sighed as I rolled up to him.

“Move, Jack.” I mumbled the first words I spoke to anyone but Staci in three days.

“Not until you stop pacing, or whatever it is you're doing.” Jack stubbornly stated. I turned my face up to glare at him.

“Move, Jack.” I bit out through a clenched jaw and I saw him shake his head sadly. “I'm not afraid to run over your foot, you poor excuse for a friend.” His eyes betrayed his hurt at my comment for a brief second before the stubbornness resumed.

“Forget it, Sid. You're going to have to throw me out, and I was stronger than you before you got hurt, so good luck, buddy.” He tried to grin, but to me, it looked more like a grimace as I moved the chair to go around him. As I moved, he moved with me, blocking every angle. I finally gave up on that direction and turned to find Marc in front of me going the other way.

“Daryl, we know you love Staci.” He started, Vero standing directly at his right shoulder. “We know you're worried about Staci. We all are.” He sighed gesturing to the room that had been filled with friends and family from Pittsburgh and beyond. “But you need to stop. You're hurting yourself. Just stop, Sid.” Marc's soft words, in that stupid accent, did it. All of the emotions I didn't want any of them to see. All of the emotions I had poured out to her when she wasn't in surgery fell out of me.

All I could do at that moment was hang my head in my chair and sob. I, myself, was shocked at how painful and loud my sobs sounded. I was so lost in my own grief that I didn't feel Vero, Mel, and Nathalie surround me in comforting embraces; their own tears gently falling onto my head and shoulders.

We sat there clutching at each other for what seemed like hours. I realized then that this was my support system. These were the people that would get me through this. Good or bad. 'Please God,' I prayed, 'just let it be good.' I clung to them until an official sounding throat clearing caught my attention. The three women pulled away from me, revealing a tall, young doctor.

“Mr. Crosby,” he started with a sigh. “Mr. Crosby, your fiancée is out of surgery now. We've done all we can for the burns. She is still unconscious, we're unsure of how long she'll remain in that state, but expect a while yet. Her body has gone through a lot.” I stared up at the doctor and nodded mutely.

“Is she going to be ok?” Vero quietly asked at my right shoulder. The doctor sighed that heavy sigh that doctor’s give when they know that the answer they have is not the answer you want.

“That's not an answer I can give at this moment.” We all stood there, shocked, those who were seated now stood behind myself, Marc, Jack, and the girls. “What I mean is, she's been through a major trauma. 75% of her body is covered in second or third degree burns. She suffered sever internal injuries and excessive external ones. However, we have seen over the past three days that she is a fighter. And I have faith that she will pull through,” He sighed for the fourth or fifth time. “However I can make no guarantees on her well being at this point. We need her to wake up before anything can be determined.” He smiled sadly and nodded before heading back through those damned double doors.

I simply sat, miserable, and in more shock than my body thought it could handle. My hands shook and had a fairly good idea that my voice had left my throat. So I just sat... Staring at those double doors, waiting for her to walk through them.

“Sidney...” A soft African accented voice called through my haze. My eyes moved slowly upwards to find Gina standing near me. “How would you like to sit with her again?” I nodded wordlessly and saw her mouth the word 'sixteen' to whoever was standing behind me. My sigh echoed the walls as the person behind me pushed me down the hallway to 'sixteen' as Gina mentioned. They paused directly outside the door, causing me to take hold of the wheels.

I turned my head to look back and saw Jack staring wordlessly at the fragile being on the bed.

“I know, Jack... I know...” I whispered wheeling myself a little into the room. I turned again to see him slowly turning. “Hey, Jack?” His head turned mid step to take me in. “Thanks.” I half smiled, genuinely. My friend returned the smile with slight difficulty before nodding and walking slowly back to the waiting room.

I turned back to the bed in the middle of the room and wheeled up to it carefully. I easily and gently took her bandaged hand in mine before letting my head collapse onto the bed and my sobs escaped.

“I'm sorry, Stace...” I sobbed, praying she could hear me. “Jesus, I'm so sorry...”

Monday, July 13, 2009

.11.

Here's a super short teaser for you. More, hopefully, tomorrow.

~~~

“Alecia... I really don't think this is a good idea.” A timid voice came from the backseat of the black Volvo waiting three blocks away from the bar.

“Shut up, Kate. I told you already. We have to get rid of the girls. One by one. Now, keep your trap shut and just watch out for any of the other guys.” She sneared back to the timid voiced girl. Kate sat in the back seat, peering out into the night, trying desperately not to girl in the front seat.

A phone chirped loudly next to Alecia, who shivered excitedly.

“It's time. They've just left. Cass saw Sid get in the driver's side.” The third girl smiled evilly, her eyes glinting in the street lights, causing Kate her own shiver, though not one of excitement like the others.

Alecia circled back another four blocks and came barreling down the street at 80 miles an hour. Kate sat praying in the backseat, clutching tightly to the handle on the door. 'Oh God,' she cried silently, 'please protect everyone in both cars!' All three girls screamed as the Volvo hit the SUV directly on the passenger's side.

STACI'S POV

We waved easily at our friends as we slowly pulled out of the parking lot.

“What do you think, Stace?” Sidney asked, taking my hand in his and holding it to him, protectively.

“Of?” I asked innocently.

“What food should we get?”

“Hmm... I think a little bit of everything would be good, don't you?” I laughed easily as he lifted my hand to kiss gently.

“Who cares about food... I could just eat you.” He waggled his eyebrows at me, causing me to crack into hysterics. “Babe, could you grab the CDs? They're under your seat.” He pouted adorably at me, before giving me back my hand.

“Of course, Sidney,” I leaned over and quickly kissed his pouting mouth before bending forward to grab the CD case from underneath the seat. I was halfway up before I heard the squeal of tires and could feel the SUV tip precariously. “SIDNEY!” I screamed as I felt the side of the door crumble onto my legs, I felt my head connect with the center consul and my brain went muffled and blurry.

“Staci?!” I could hear Sid screaming, even though he sounded like he was under water. “Staci, baby, wake up!” I tried to move to look at him, but found myself perfectly still, and without any control of my own body. I could smell something in the distance... Gas? Was there a gas leak somewhere? “Stace, hold on!” I heard Sidney yell at me, his voice getting farther and farther away from me. “STACI!” I could barely hear his scream as a blinding white light took over my consciousness before flooding my world with darkness.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

commercial break

We interupt this story with a breif commercial break.

I've stumbled across a story a while back, and wanted to share it with you guys.

legalassistanceturnedlove.blogspot.com/

Give Tillie some love and check out her story. Very entertaining.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

.10.

SID'S POV

I glanced back once, my brow furrowed at the worried expression plastered on her face. She stood with Marc and Vero standing on either side of her, chewing her nail. She never chewed her nails, that's when I knew something was really bugging her.

Sighing, I turned back to my task, I slowly made my way across the dance floor, having my shirt grabbed by different women, who I nodded politely to and kept going. Finally, I reached my destination. Max. Basically having sex in the middle of the dance floor. Gently I tapped his shoulder.

“Max, we're all heading back to the house. Come with.” I shouted into his ear. He stopped devouring his partner's neck and turned to face me still 'dancing', if you could call it that.

“Nah, I think we're good here.” Max smirked mischievously just before turning back to his friend.

“Staci, asked me to invite both you and your friend. If you want to join us, that's where we'll be.” I saw Max barely nod, gave him another pat on the shoulder and turned to leave.

As I turned I was met by a wall of four gorgeous girls. They seemed young, probably 18 or 19.

“Ladies,” I nodded my acknowledgement before moving to the right to walk around them.

“Hi,” one of the girls purred stepping to her left and directly into my path. “Leaving so soon?”

“Yup, heading home...” I faked a yawn and tried to go the other way, the girl on that end stepping into my path.

“What's the hurry,” she cooed, wrapping her arm comfortably around my waist.

“I'm sorry ladies, but I have people waiting for me.” I quickly shook her off and sent visual sign for help to the group upstairs. One of the middle girls stepped in front of me.

“All we're asking, Sid,” She smiled sweetly, innocently, “is that you take a really long hard look at your fiancée. We could do all that and more for you.” She winked and with that turned and headed towards the bar. The two on the end quickly following, leaving the second girl in the middle.

“We'll be watching, Sid.” She blew me a kiss and followed her friends back to the bar. I stood there stunned at the women for a moment, barely hearing Max step up behind me, with his friend wrapped in his arms.

“Hey, man, are you ok?” I shook my head out of it's funk and turned to him smiling slightly.

“Yeah, I'm good.” He grinned and started walking towards the door. About ten feet from where I stood cemented to the ground he turned around and stared at me with a worried expression.

“Dude, are you coming or not? We're going to your house.” I nodded and turned to glance at the four girls would sat at the bar, ignoring the gaggle of men surrounding them.

“Yah... I'm coming...” My brow furrowed as I turned back to Max and started towards the VIP section and then the door. Staci met me halfway to the door with Vero and Marc right behind her. Marc simply shook his head, while Vero wore a concerned expression as Staci folded herself into my arms. “Hey,” I whispered into her hair as we continued to walk towards the door, “it's okay... I'm fine... You're fine...” I kissed the top of her hair gently before I opened the door to the SUV for her. I jogged quickly to the other side and rolled down the window to address our friends before leaving. “See you guys at the house. Guy and Claire aren't there, but Jordan and Laura might be. If they are... Flower?”

“We'll make sure nothing happened!” Marc assured me, and Vero nodded next to him.

“Ok, we're going to stop for food.” I smiled and rubbed Staci's hand as she stared out the passenger side window. “Any requests?”

“Chinese.”

“Sushi!” Tyler called, Erin draped under his arm.

“PIZZA!” I heard Max call from down the parking lot. Staci and I chuckled along with our friends before starting the vehicle and pulling out of the parking lot.

“See you at the house!” I called waving out of the window.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

updates

Hi guys,

I'm sorry, chapter 10 is in the works right now, and almost finished. I'm just trying to figure out how I want something to happen. Not as easy as you'd think.

Anyways, it should be up this weekend forsure!

Friday, June 19, 2009

.9.

I hope this makes up for the lack of updates... Enjoy guys :O)

~~

The game was quick, and loud, our boys pulling a head to win it 4-2 in the third. The four of us headed downstairs, which was probably a mistake, as we were interrupted every ten steps so someone could congratulate Vero and Marc-Andre. Vero would nod and thank them politely and then we would continue on our way.

We hit the locker rooms and Brooks and Tyler were standing there waiting for their respective women. Erin and Lilly ran over and attacked their men with a fever. Vero and I stood back, knowing like always, our men would probably be the last out.

I sat on the couch as the guys came up and congratulated Vero on their way out. She gushed at them and thanked them with a genuine smile as they left the locker room promising to see us both at Diesel soon.

Finally, about ten minutes after Geno, Staalsy and Max left, the doors opened and a flood of reporters headed right for us.

“STACI, STACI! How does it feel, now that you're friend is engaged?” A reporter yelled at me as they separated me from Vero.

“I'm very happy for Vero and Marc-Andre. They've been very good friends to both myself and Sidney, and I look forward to doing all the things that Vero has been kind enough to do for me during my engagement.” I smiled widely, waiting, praying for Sidney to save me.

“What would you say, Staci, was the best part of your own engagement?” A familiar voice asked. I looked up to see Sid in the midst of all the reporters, grinning mischievously, as the hounds grew tighter.

“Well, you see, I met this guy... And he was very persistent, on the verge of annoying.” I grinned as he took on a look of indignation. “But, he ended up winning me over, by his persistence. My favourite thing about the proposal? The fact that it was in Cole Harbour, just me and him, and our dogs at the house. It was very romantic. He proposed on the dock, over looking the lake.” The crowd around me aww'd as Sid finally fought his way forward, I looked over to see Vero briefly, and saw Marc-Andre's head where she used to be, blocking her from sight. I turned back towards Sidney and he surprised me by meeting my lips right away.

“Sorry everyone... I'm stealing my fiancée and our friends away to enjoy their engagement. Thank you.” Sid called out to the reporters. He wrapped his arm around me and began to pull me away from the crowd as more and more reporters yelled out to us. I looked over and saw Marc pulling Vero away in a similar fashion. Both of us girls just put our heads down to avoid pictures as our men guided us out the door. “Diesel, Flower. The guys are already there.” Sid waved to the others as he opened my door for me giving me a quick kiss before running over to his side of the vehicle.


We pulled up to the club and the doorman came up and opened the door for me as Sidney ran over and offered me his hand. My smile ballooned as I took the offered hand and headed into the club together.

Our group of people glanced up and cheered as they spotted us walking into the club, Vero and Marc right behind us. As we got up to the VIP area I noticed Jordan sitting in the corner with a very pretty, very familiar blond. I gave Sid a pat on the arm, leaving him to talk with Geno, Max, and Marc while I made my way over to the couple.

I gently sat across from them and watch for a few moments as they had their faces close together, whispering back and forth, grinning like small school children. After about three minutes of just watching them interact I cleared my throat to announce my presence. The girl’s head flew up, running straight into Jordan’s chin. Jordan groaned holding his jaw tenderly. The girl looked between me and Jordan before finally turning to him and pushing his hands away so she could see the damage.

“Oh my gosh, Jordan… I’m so sorry… Je suis tres stupide!” she cried stroking his jaw. He smiled softly before trapping his hands in his.

“You’re not stupid. Trust me.” He smiled leaning in and kissing her gently.

“I'm sorry,” I cut in, causing them to pull away from each other. “But, although you two are together and that's great. I need to clarify somethings first. Laura, does your mother know you're at Diesel?” Her eyes fell as she slowly shook her head. “But she knows you're with Jordan?” She nodded raising her eyes to look at me pleadingly.

“Please, Aunt Staci, don't tell her! I just wanted to have a good date with him, nothing more.” She pleaded, holding onto Jordan's hands.

“I understand that, and I won't on one condition...” My gaze turned to the young blond’s now slightly terrified boyfriend. “Jordan, don't you dare bring her back here until she's at least eight-teen ok?” The tall man-boy nodded slowly. “And take her out for dinner or something. If Claire's ok with you taking her out, she should be ok with where you take her. Deal?”

“Deal, Stace,” He mumbled as they both stood. Laura came over and hugged me gently before running out of the club, Jordan close behind her. I watched them run out of the club chuckling to myself about the trouble Sidney and I used to get into when we first started dating.

“Hey, babe, was that Laura and Jordan I saw running out of here?” Sidney asked kissing the top of my head gently. I nodded and leaned against him.

“Yup, I got me thinking about us as teenagers.” I laughed as he shuddered.

“I'm surprised your father never killed me. We were pretty bad.” He kissed my shoulder gently as I laughed at the memories.

“We weren't that bad. Troublemakers for sure. But we always knew when enough was enough.”

“Yah, the vein in your dad's forehead would start pounding.” We laughed and I slowly stood, pulling away from him slowly.

“I'm going to grab a drink ok, babe?” I leaned in and kissed his plush lips after he nodded. I headed towards the bar, pausing at the steps to send a kiss air delivery to Sid and laughed as he caught it, placing it in his pocket.

I hurried to the bar, not really liking how crowded it got in a matter of twenty minutes. The bartender was quick to take my order, and I stood there waiting for my drink, observing the people around me.

“Oh my GOD! Cassie, they're here!!! Oh my god! How do we get in there??” A girl directly to my left squealed.

“Umm.. Doubtful, Alecia... They're all marrying off. Which means, while they're in town, they're off limits. It'll be better when we see them in New York next week.” The girl next to her, Cassie, purred. “But I might be able to walk out of here with Max tonight, he looks like he's on the prowl.” The girls cackled and my gaze went to the dance floor where I found Max getting very cozy with a very plastic blond. I sighed gently and shook my head, as the bartender finally dropped off my made drink. I turned slowly, having grabbed Sidney a beer as well, and began to head back to the lounge.

“You know, Cas, the other thing we can do to get in the with the guys...” The girl, Alecia, pondered. “Get rid of the girlfriends...” I glanced over with my peripheral vision to see the two girls glaring at Vero standing with Marc and chatting with Erin and Brooks. I shuddered involuntarily and sped up my pace to get back into the lounge.

“Staci, what's wrong?” Vero asked, catching me as I almost ran up the stairs. I shook my head violently.

“We... W-we need to go... Now...” I managed to speak as Sid came up and grabbed his beer from me.

“Thanks, babe.” He grinned kissing my cheek, not noticing my fear.

“What do you mean?” Vero asked, now concerned, pulling me to the couch to sit.

“I just... It's not.... I mean... I just think we should go.”

“What's going on, Staci?” Marc sat next to Vero wrapping his arm around her shoulders.

“We need to get Max and get out of here. We can go to our place. Order Chinese and hang out.” I smiled innocently, taking a large sip of my drink.

“I could for Chinese.” Lilly piped up from next to Tyler.

“Yah... Sounds good.” Sid grinned, gulping his beer. He leaned down and kissed my forehead gently. “I'll go get Max. The blond might have to come to though. Is that ok?” I nodded finishing my drink as I watched Sid cross the dance floor to get Max so we could leave.

"Mon Dieu," Vero swore softly causing me to whip my head around to see trouble heading in Sidney and Max's direction, head on.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

.8.

I'm sorry I'm sorry! It's CRAZY short! But it's a post. Ideas brewing... Too tired to write. Tomorrow... Maybe... This weekend definitely.

~

The area was silent. Not a single person made a single sound, even the mice were waiting in anticipation. Sid squeezed my hand gently, causing me to lean down to hear what he wanted to say.

“She’s gonna say yes… isn’t she?” He whispered looking back at the ice, and Marc-Andre kneeling there patiently, as Vero cried silently into her one hand.

“I hope so,” I whispered back. “I wasn’t aloud to say anything, remember?” He sighed and nodded. “I know she loves him, so she’s probably just in shock.” I gave his hand a light squeeze before looking up at our friends. I met Vero’s eyes and nodded ever so slightly. Her eyes crinkled in a small smile as she lowered her right hand onto Marc-Andre’s and said the one word, that the whole arena was waiting to hear.

“Yes…” She breathed as the whole arena erupted. “Yes, Marc-Andre, I will marry you.” Marc instantly jumped up and hugged her tightly. The crowd didn't quiet down as she leaned down to kiss him fiercely.

“I guess we're going out tonight.” I grinned and shooed him towards the ice.

“More than likely..” He grinned, walking backwards, not noticing Marc-Andre and Vero heading right into him. “Oh, hey guys, congrats.” He grinned and waved at them. “Flower, you gonna take long?”

“Nah,” Marc-Andre smiled stupidly. “I just have to say good bye to my fiancée.. Maybe ten minutes?” Sidney nodded and stepped onto the ice to start warming up.
Fifteen minutes later the Mellon went dark as the announced the Penguins stepping on the ice. Marc-Andre came out first, and the crowd went nuts when they saw that the back of his jersey said “Just Engaged”. Vero slowly made her way to our seats wearing a similar jersey.

“Félicitations, Vero!” I called enveloping her in a tight hug.

“Merci, Staci. I'm so excited! We're thinking, not this off season but next.” She smiled widely, as Erin and Lilly demanded to see the ring. It was gorgeous! 2 carats center diamond with descending smaller ones heading down the sides of the ring.

“Oh my GAWD! Vero!” Lilly squealed. I turned back to the ice to see the boys lined up on the blue lines.

“Shh, ladies.. It's starting... Lets gush after the game.” I smiled as the others turned to watch our men work.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

.7.

Sorry... Kind of short, but I'm suffering a bit of writers block. Any ideas will definitely help.
I'll try and post soon, but no promises... I haven't been motivated to write. :-/

~

The end of the week flew and soon I found myself at Marc-Andre and Vero's house raiding her closet. Claire, Guy and the kids were house hunting again, so I was free to sit with the girls.

“How about this one, Vero?” I held up a emerald green off the shoulder shirt towards her.

“Really? That dressy? Staci, you're the one who'd rather go to the games in her sweat pants, and you're encouraging me to dress up?” She stopped and put her hands on her hips staring at me. “What's going on, Staci?”

“Nothing, I just thought we could get a little dressed up for today's game... It's not big deal. Wear sweats if you want.” I shrugged, moving to re-fold the shirt.

“Okay, okay!! I'll wear the shirt!” She laughed snatching the shirt out of my hands. We changed quickly and ran down to my car; Sid caught a ride to Mellon with Marc-Andre earlier that day.

Mellon was buzzing when we got there, people already cramming the hallways. I stood on my tiptoes keeping my eyes open for Erin and Lilly. Vero laughed and pulled me back onto the flats of my shoes.

“What is your issue tonight? You’re so jumpy.” She shook her head and started to pull me towards the locker rooms.

“Why don’t we head to our seats?” I suggested, pulling her the other way. “They’re going to start honouring the season ticket holders right away.”

“I want to see Marc before the game. He was so nervous when he left this afternoon. He didn’t even nap.” Her eyebrows knitted together in concern.

“I’m sure he’ll be fine… I just don’t think that-“ I couldn’t finish my thought as Vero was bombarded by Erin and Lilly.

“Geez, V, what did you do to Marc?” Lilly demanded her cheeks slightly pink from running to us. “He’s a nervous wreck down there!”

“It’s true,” Erin nodded in agreement. “He was pacing and fidgety. Sid just kept laughing and saying ‘it’s okay man… just do it’. But no one else seemed to know what was going on…” Vero eyes quickly went from concern for Marc to scorn for me.

“What is going on, Staci?” She demanded stepping closer to me.

“I don’t know, Vero… Sidney might, but he never told me…” I shrugged and turned my gaze away from her. She opened her mouth to say something more, but thankfully an usher came up to us and interrupted.

“Ms. Larosse, can you come with me please?” He gestured to her to follow, I nodded enthusiastically at her, turning her to follow him, Erin and Lilly standing there mouths agape.

“What is going on, Staci?” Lilly asked once Vero was safely out of ear shot.

“Marc’s proposing, in…” I glanced down at my watch, “ten minutes. She’s the last season ticket holder being honoured.” I smiled as the girls went crazy for our friend. “Come on guys, I don’t want to miss this.”

We wove our way through the seats with little concern; it’s amazing how excitement can make the fans less perceptive. Once in our seats we watched as the season ticket holders were escorted onto the ice by the goal line. There were seven in total.

Sid was the first to skate out from the tunnel. The crowd went insane. His gaze went up into the stands until our eyes connected. I blew him a kiss of acknowledgement and blushed as the crowd cooed and I realised we where on the JumboTron. He laughed fully before blowing a kiss back. Before going to his ticket holder he skated by Vero, who looked very confused and slightly angry, and rubbed her arm, before whispering something in her ear. She nodded and smiled slightly, but it was a genuine smile. He skated over to the sixty year old woman waiting for him.
He took off the jersey that he had draped over his arm and presented it to her, showing the crowd as well. It was his jersey of course, and she was ecstatic. She pulled him into a tight hug and we all laughed as she almost caused him to tumble over.

One by one the rest of the fans got to meet their respective Penguin. Jordan, Max, Kris, Bill, and Geno came out to present people with jerseys. If they caught a woman, like Jordan and Geno, they were accosted with hugs and even Geno received an innocent, but unexpected kiss on the cheek. The others got hardy handshakes and lots of thank yous. The players escorted their fans off the ice leaving Vero standing on the goal line very much alone. She stood there by herself for a good two or three minutes before Marc skated out, not in his gear, but the suit he was wearing earlier. Her eyes grew at his attire, and we couldn’t tell if she had figured it out or if she was going to slap him as soon as he got close enough.

The crowd went deadly silent as a microphone clicked on.

“Hello,” Marc started towards the crowd, which screamed loudly in response. “As all of you probably know, I have been very happily attached to Vero Larosse for ten years or so. But I don’t think a lot of you understand the sacrifices she makes every day.” He smiled over at her and took her hand in his. “She never fights with me about hockey, other things like, taking the garbage out, sure, but never hockey. She loves this city more than I do.” The crowd erupted as Vero blushed deeply. I jumped slightly as something brushing my leg. I looked next to me to see Sidney standing in the hallway next to our seats. I took his hand in mine and turned my eyes back to the ice.

“She's supported me for ten years. And through all of that, she really hasn't complained. She's left jobs, and started new ones, just so I could be where I needed to be.” He turned to Vero and gently took hold of her left hand. “Vero, I've made you sad like anyone in a relationship. I've made you happy like anyone in a relationship. But I love you like no other, you complete who I am. I realize we have immeasurable things to learn, infinite things to accomplish, but I'd love to do it together.” He slowly knelt down on one knee, causing her right hand to shakily come up to her mouth. “Cherie, I'm out of this world in love with you. Will you give me the honour, the privilege of being my wife? Will you marry me?”

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

pause

I've decided to right some short stories and post them up here in blogger land.

The music for them is not up and running, but the first story is.

http://shortwindsprints.blogspot.com/

Hope you enjoy reading them as much as I've enjoyed writting them. :D

Monday, May 18, 2009

.6.

Thank you to everyone who's reading and leaving comments. They're greatly appreciated! Sorry this update took a bit to get up, but I'm off for a whole week, so hopefully I'll be able to sit down and do some serious writing. Lots of exciting things coming up, and possiblities for some spin offs, we'll see. Enjoy :)

~~~

In my blind rage I moved to slap the next girl but had two strong arms wrap around me before I could do anything.

“Bitch!” The first one screamed. “This is assault! I could sue you!”

“Please, do me the favour. Press charges! I would love to be able to explain to the courts how you maliciously instigated the confrontation verbally!” I screamed fighting against the still unknown arms.

“C’mon, Staci, let’s go.” Marc-Andre’s voice flooded into my ear, I stopped fighting against him and sighed deeply before nodding.

“You’re right, Marc. They’re not worth it.” I shot a glare at the girls as he let me go. I pulled gently on the hem of my coat to smooth it out and didn’t even notice the second girl storming up and punching me square in the face. I heard the crack on impact before the pain sunk in. Marc-Andre caught me as I fell backwards. I could see Max and Kris running over to restrain the girls as I steadied myself on my feet. “Max, Kris... Just leave them. I'm not hurt that badly.”

I held my hand up to my face to feel the damage. My cheek was killing me, but it wasn't too bad. And my lip was definitely bleeding. I smiled slightly as Sidney can running up and put his hand on my cheek. I winced at the shot of pain that ripped through it.

“Stace, are you ok?” He stared into my eyes so intensely, almost like if he turned away I'd disappear.

“I'm fine, Sidney,” I whispered hugging him tightly. He gently pushed me back to examine the damage.

“Hey, you didn't do so bad, Slugger.” He grinned kissing my split lip.

“You should see the other guy.” I laughed before turning towards the two girls. I took a step away from Sidney as I began to address them. “You know, I can deal with what you say to me, because I really don't care what you think of me. And neither does Sidney. But leave my family out of it. You don't know anything about any of us, including Sidney. I'm not going to press charges on you, so long as your friend doesn't.” The girls nodded weakly, feeling the steely glares from three professional hockey players. “And girls? I suggest you stay far away from me, my family and my fiancé.”

I turned back towards Sidney and held out my hand for him take. His smile grew as he took my hand and we headed towards the toboggan hill. Laura, Jordan, and Bryan came running up to us with crazy carpets and inner tubes in their hands.

“Are you ok, Aunt Staci?” Laura asked, one hand holding two crazy carpets and the other lost in Jordan's gloved one. I grinned a the sight of them.

“Oh yah, I'm fine.” I brushed it off, really not wanting to get into why the fight started with anyone. I'd tell Sidney when we got home, and were alone.

“Bryan, want to go on the tube with me?” Sidney asked as I chose my own inner tube; Laura and Jordan took the carpets. Bryan nodded enthusiastically before climbing on Sid's lap. Jordan and Laura gave the three of us a push down the hill before taking a running leap with the crazy carpets. The five of us laughed and screamed the whole way down. At the bottom we all got off our “toboggans” and ran back to the top of the hill, where we switched to Sid and I on one tube, Jordan and Laura on the other and Bryan on a crazy carpet. I screamed as Max came running up and pushed Sid and I down the hill.

As we were sailing down the hill we came up to a small jump, and,because of our combined weight, we flew about ten feet before hitting the snow again. As we hit the tube tumbled slightly knocking both of us off. I jarred my cheek on a piece of ice as I came crashing down, I could feel blood trickle slowly out of a small cut. Sidney saw the blood and came running over to me.

“Staci! Staci!” He shouted as he rolled me over, I couldn't answer him, I was laughing so hard I could barely breathe. “Staci, I need you to tell me you're ok. Did you hit your head?” He started to take off my touque and check for any bumps or bruises.

“I'm fine!” I laughed pushing him away from my head, and wiped the blood from my cheek with my glove. “I haven't had this much fun in months!” My laughter diminished to giggles as Sidney helped me up and brushed me off.

“Maybe we should go home, Stace. You can just rest.” He looked down at me, his beautiful hazel eyes full of worry.

“Sidney, I got punched in the face. It's not that serious. Calm down, I'm fine.” I smiled kissing him gently. “But if you want to go home, we can.” I looked up at him, pressing my body as close to his own as I could with all of our winter gear on. “I don't think we'll get much rest though.” I grinned wickedly, staring up into his eyes.

“I think I like that idea Ms. Lacoix.” He matched my grin and kissed my nose gently, before turning to Laura and Jordan who just made it down the hill. “Laura, Staci and I are going to head home.”

“My head's kind of bugging me.” I shrugged.

“No problem, Uncle Sid.” Laura's eyebrows knitted together with worry as I pulled her in for a hug.

“Yah, we'll make sure everyone gets home. I'm sure Flower and V can take a couple of people.” Jordan smiled doing their little hand shake thingy with him.

“Just tell your mom not to worry, I'm ok. I just want some rest and time with Sidney, ok?” I whispered to Laura. In our embrace, I felt her nod. “I'll see you soon, Laura, ok?” I kissed her cheek quickly before separating from her and taking Sid's hand and walking back towards the car.

Once in and pulled out of the parking lot, I laid my head against the cool glass. I was tired, I realized. This day took a lot out of me. Between the fight and tobogganing and Bryan, I was exhausted!

“You ok, baby?” Sid asked stealing glances at me as he watched the road.

“Just tired...” I looked over at him and smiled.

“What?” He asked self-consciously. “Do I have something on my face?” He wiped at his face with one hand causing me to laugh softly.

“No, just thinking about our wedding, and how I can't wait to be one hundred percent with you. Legally.”

“You're excited for that?” He peeked over at me again, his smile growing.

“Oh yah. I'm so excited I wish it was happening tomorrow. Getting to have you waiting for me at the end of the aisle, in your tux. Being able to promise to be with you for forever. Having you carry me over the threshold as soon as we walk up to the door. Knowing we'll be together for the rest of our lives.” I took his right hand in mine. “I'm pretty excited.”

“You'll be even more excited after Wednesday.” He laughed kissing my knuckles. “Colby said all Mel's been talking about is getting to go dress shopping with you, and now she wants him to propose so that you two can plan your weddings together.” We laughed together and I leaned my head back against the window.

“Oh Mel would too.”

“Well, she's going to feel left out if he doesn't soon.” I sat up again and looked at Sidney, raising my eyebrow. “Flower's proposing on Saturday. Don't tell V though. It's planned, right after our game. You know, we're honouring season ticket holders, well one of the tickets is hers.” He looked over at me, remembering our own engagement. “Just make sure she dresses up.”

“Oh, I will.” I smiled, resting my head against the head rest and letting my eyes close for the rest of the drive.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

.5.

Sorry, short chapter... But think of it more as a teaser. 6 is in the works, up by Saturday at the lastest.

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We turned down the drive to the campground parking lot of Laurel Ridge about an hour and a half later. With Bryan and Sidney having gone through 87 bottles on the wall and Claire arguing with Guy about their house situation, I was more then ready to get out of the car, until we actually pulled in and I could see the amount of vehicles already there. Not to mention the swarm of women surrounding the other boys. I could even pick Laura out, standing about ten feet from them, arms crossed over her ample chest, bored to tears.

“Shit,” I swore under my breath, “I can't believe I didn't think of this!” I jumped at Sidney's hand resting on my own.

“It's ok, Stace, we'll deal with it.” He looked down at me smiling widely. “It's just a few fans.”

“Just a few fans? Sidney, that's a mob!” I exclaimed gesturing at the crowd. Becoming agitated I flipped into French. (sorry I don't know French. I'll be using a translator, and will post the translations in a different colour.) “Je ne peux pas croire que ce n'est pas un problème pour toi! Sidney, ces gens ne m'aiment pas.” (I cannot think that it is not a problem for you! Sidney, these people do not love me.)

“They don't hate you, Stace. They're happy that I'm happy.” Sidney tried to sooth me after pulling into a stall and turning off the car. He turned to me and rubbed my arms to get me to calm down. I turned away from him, still fuming at how little he actually knew about his fans. Even Claire scoffed from the backseat.

“Croyez que tu vouex.” (think what you want.) I sighed getting out of the car and heading towards Laura. If Sidney was going to be ignorant about the girls there, then he could be ignorant about them while I wasn’t there.

“Stace… Stace… Come on, Staci!” Sidney cried after me, spilling out of the car and chasing after me. Finally catching up to me he grabbed my arm and spun me to face him. “Staci, will you just talk to me?” I stopped and placed my hand, not in his grasp, on my hip. “Look, ten minutes, and then I’ll ask them to leave us alone for the day. I know that they’ll understand. Please, Staci? Help me out with this.”

“Non, ils sont vos mordus. Ils sont votre problème.” (No, they are your fans. They are your problem.) I sighed and hugged him tightly. “I won’t help, Sidney, but I won’t stand in your way either. Just be careful.” I looked up deeply into his eyes before raising on to my tip toes and kissed his pouty lips. “I love you, Sidney Crosby.”

“I love you more, Staci Lacoix. Much, much more.” He held me in place and kissed me again and again, I could feel a small smile playing on his lips before he pulled away. “I'll be back soon.” He stepped back after I let him go and he winked quickly before heading towards the mob of Sid hungry women.

I took my time and walked over to Laura, Claire, and the boys. Hearing someone call my name, I turned to the parking lot and saw Vero and Marc-Andre heading our way.

“What a slut...” I stopped dead in my tracks and turned my head slightly to my left, there stood two girls staring at me with hatred. “I just can't believe he'd pick her. I mean, she's all over Max and Jordan. And have to seen her niece? Puck bunny...” The girls cackled together and I had to bite my tongue from going over there and giving them a piece of my mind. I couldn't let them speak about Laura that way so I turned towards them, taking two or three steps in their direction.

“I'm sorry, ladies, but I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. I have a bit of a problem with what you were saying.” I smiled sweetly towards the girls, one who just glared at me vehemently, the other's eyes were three times their natural size.

“Yah? Should we be adding eavesdropping on top of slut?” The glaring girl spat.

“You know what, insult me all you want, leave my niece out of it.” I sighed gesturing towards Laura and Jordan, who were now chasing each other around some trees. Bryan and Max were using them as moving targets in a snowball fight.

“Why? She's worse than you are. Jordan Staal? She honestly thinks she had a chance?” The second girl piped up smirking, her friend finding this hilarious and began to laugh. Well that was the last straw. My vision turned red as I reached out and slapped the last girl to speak with all my force, my hand stinging as soon as it made contact.

Monday, May 11, 2009

.4.

Okay, so I've changed Laura's age, it just makes more sence. Sorry... I know confusing. I have changed them in earlier chapters as well. And I hate to feel like a nag, but even though I am writing this for me, I need feedback. Constructive critism is welcome. Please, pretty pretty please comment.

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“Auntie! Wake up!” I heard Bryan screech into my ear as he landed on top of me, jolting me from a very deep and comfortable sleep. I groaned softly and closed my eyes tighter against the onslaught. “Uncle Sid it's not working,” I heard him whisper, “throw me on her again.”

“Throw him on her again, Uncle Sid, and the couch will become your new resting place.” I mumbled against the pillow. I knew he heard me as he chuckled softly.

“Sorry, Bryan, I like my bed. And the couch is lumpy, not good for sleeping.” I could feel Bryan being lifted off of my and a gentle kiss placed on my head. “Coffee is ready and breakfast is cooking when you're ready. But we do need to leave relatively soon, Stace.” He whispered into my hair, before kissing my head again and moving away from the bed. “C'mon, Bry, Auntie will be up soon. If not we'll give her until just before we leave.”

“But what if she takes forever like mommy?” Bryan cried their voices getting quieter as they left the room for the kitchen.

“Auntie Staci doesn't take long to get ready, Bryan. It'll be okay.”

I rolled over and stared at the ceiling with a small smile on my face. Only Claire would be up and have coffee ready at eight in the morning on a Sunday. I'm sure I wasn't the first person Bryan woke up this morning either. I kicked off the blankets and headed for the shower thinking about poor Sidney's face as Bryan probably dragged him out of bed at six. I dressed quickly in a pair of dark washed skinny jeans, and a warm cashmere sweater Sidney bought me for our own anniversary two weeks ago. I brushed and braided my hair into pigtail braids, threw on my knit touque and ran down the stairs for some coffee.

“Morning, sleepy head,” Claire greeted me over her coffee cup as Bryan and Laura dug into their pancakes. Sidney handed me a steaming mug of coffee before kissing me softly on the lips.

“Morning,” he whispered stealing another kiss.

“Morning, yourself,” I grinned leaning up for my third kiss of the day, as Claire cleared her throat loudly at us. “Hey, we live together. We're allowed morning kisses. Plus he deserves them this morning, he saved me from this really pesky brat.” I laughed as I crossed the room and ruffled Bryan's hair, as he laughed into his milk.

“He woke me up this morning to, Aunt Staci, at six! Six, can you imagine?” Laura cried disguised.

“Oh I can,” Sidney muttered rubbing the back of his neck.

“My hero,” I swooned giving him another kiss.

“Auntie is Max and Staalzy gonna be there?” Bryan asked innocently, I looked at the table and saw Laura trying to hide the blush on her cheeks with her hair.

“I think so, Bryan, They're supposed to be. And Marc-Andre and Vero as well.”

“Sweet! Do you think Max would have a snow ball fight with me?”

“I'm sure if you ask him, Bry, he'll team up with you against Staalzy.” Sidney laughed as the doorbell rang. I smiled and crossed through the living room to open the door. Leaning against my door frame was Max with Jordan, Geno, and Kris right behind him.

“Good morning, gorgeous!” Max greeted me with a kiss on the cheek.

“Good morning, Max. Geno, I missed you last night. Where did you go?” I questioned pulling the big man-boy into a tight hug.

“I was having to talk to Karina.” He smiled shyly hugging me back just as tightly.

“And how is Karina?”

“Good. She is good. Coming two weeks today.” Geno smiled widely.

“Good. You two will have to come for dinner when she gets here.” I returned the smile and pulled them all into the house, hugging them as the entered. The four of them followed me into the kitchen to find the breakfast dishes cleaned and put away. “Are we ready to go then?”

“I think so,” Sidney looked around at everyone before pulling on one of my pig tails. “I love your hair in braids, baby.” He whispered into my ear, causing me to blush fiercely.

“Alright, boys you're going in Jordan's truck?” I asked the group of guys who all nodded easily.
“Sid, we're taking the car today. Your SUV was clunking last night and I think we should fix it before it goes anywhere else.” Sid opened his mouth to protest, and I lifted myself onto my toes to kiss him gently before whispering. “As much as I don't want a relationship to form between Jordan and Laura, I think it's inevitable. So why not have it start in the open and we can make sure it doesn't go too far.” He nodded before looking up at Jordan and glaring at him protectively. “Sidney, play nice. He's just a kid.” I felt him sigh then wrap an arm around my shoulders.

“Laura, can you ride with the guys? There's not enough room in the car for everyone.” Sidney and I turned to look at our young niece as she turned three different shades of red.

“Sure, Uncle Sidney, I'll ride with the guys.” She gave Jordan a sideways glance as the other three headed towards the door. Max claiming shot-gun, earning a punch in the side from Kris who quietly sat back and could see exactly what was going on.

“Why don't you head out to the truck with them, Laura. I just need to talk to Jordan quickly.” Sidney smiled softly at her as she nodded as ran out after the boys. “Ok, Jord, I know you like her. We can all see that. Ok, Staci told me,” he corrected as I glared at him. “And I know you're 19 and old enough to date whoever you want. But she's my niece and she's only sixteen. So unless Claire has any major objections, Stace and I are going to clear you to date her. Just don't screw around, Jordan. Because I will kill you. And I'm sure I can find help with that.” Jordan gulped loudly and turned to Claire.

“I'm okay with it. But, Jordan, she's my baby girl, just remember that ok?” Claire smiled sadly.

“I will, Claire, thanks!” He grinned widely and ran out of the house, his feet barely touching the ground.

“You're a very good friend, Sidney Crosby.” I smiled up at him, earning a kiss. “Ok, gang, lets get out of here.” I wrapped one arm around Sidney's waist and the other around Bryan's shoulders as we all headed towards the garage.