#and hockey is hard. the sport is hard and the emotions are hard and the toll it takes on your body and mind is HARD | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

01zfan · 4 months

Text

first | j. sc

sungchan x fem!reader | 3.8k words

thank you for all the support on the first installment of the bases series, i really wasn’t expecting all the praise i’ve received on this account. i want to continue writing good things if you guys are willing to stick around!

also MERRY CHRISTMAS.

first base - the act of kissing, mainly with tongue (otherwise known as french kissing).

contains: kissing, pda

base series: first | second | third | homerun

you watched from the sidelines with a camera at your side. the weight of the equipment resting on the strap behind your neck would bring you stiffness later. as you watched the stationary camera recording the game you rubbed the back of your neck to relieve some pain. you couldn’t care less when it came to sports, you found it to be too boring. the irony of hating sports while being the person in charge of taking pictures on said sports was so ironic it made you laugh. of course at the end of the day, this was your job and the pictures sold well, so how could you really complain. plus, there were moments of pure exhilaration when your finger rested on the capture button, lifting up and down like a trigger. seeing the athletes leap in the air in celebration, embracing each other when a play was executed perfectly was amazing, but being able to capture it was otherworldly. you loved being a photographer being able to capture moments in time where emotion flowed through the picture. you also couldn’t complain too much because having any proximity to your boyfriend made your day. sungchan being on the hockey team was a plus.

when you signed up to be on the photography committee you didn’t know about the requirement to take photos of a select sport. there was a sign up sheet you weren’t aware of, until the president of the committee emailed you a link of a google sheet all filled up.

you looked through the document mad at all the sports you had found a little interesting. if you didn’t have any events, how would you be paid? then you saw that almost all hockey events were open. desperate for the money you bit your tongue and put your name, email, and phone number. after that it was history. the head coach got you in touch with the sports team staff since you became the de facto hockey photographer for the season. you got acquainted with the team, learning their names and numbers to yell out for a photo opportunity. you even reluctantly taught yourself about the sport, just in case you had to know something.

during the first practice for the season is when you first met sungchan. you had shook his hand at the first meeting looking up at the tall man who had way to pretty of hands to be playing sports. you imagined his soft hands in those comically large hockey gloves, pushing people down on the hard ice. his hands on his knees while he watched the game attentively from the penalty box. you were thinking about his hands when he went to the sidelines to the team manager, taking out his mouthguard to politely ask for his water bottle. he was just as kind as he was pretty, smiling and saying thank you after he was done taking a drink. before skating back to practice he turned towards you.

“you take really nice pictures by the way.” he said it simply a shy smile etched across his face.

the comment caught you by surprise. you very rarely received compliments for your work outside of the occasional “this turned out well” when you showed your clients the finished photos of an event. anything to you at all. very rarely would the subjects of your photos ever be able to thank you since it was shown by the organization anyway. most of the time there was an unspoken custom of treating the photographer like they’re invisible, an omniscient viewer of the event.

the team manager looked at you expectantly and brought you out of your reverie.

“oh, thank you.” you smiled back at him. sungchan looked at you intently and went to rest his hands on the railing of the rink.

“seriously. i looked at your portfolio not just your instagram. thanks for agreeing to take pictures of the team this season. you’re gonna make us look really cool.” sungchan continued his piece, complimenting you a little too much.

more often than not you had no idea what to say to compliments. most of the times you would just mumble an awkward thank you or try and give a compliment back. each exchange always ended making you feel awkward by the end. but sungchan just kept going. your face was burning not used to the praise of someone with such a pretty face and such pretty hands and such a soft voice. it was too much, entirely too much. all you could do was nod at him in the most sincere way.

“i’ll do my best.” the smile came naturally, giving your words a slightly flirty tone. you couldn’t help it, looking at someone so cute kind of made you giggly and bubbly for no reason. when sungchan smiled in response you couldn’t help but look down.

“okay. i’ll talk to you later,” sungchan looked to you and the team manager. “bye yunjin.”

when he turned around to skate back to his team you couldn’t wipe the smile off your face. yunjin tried to be silent, to not bring up the tension with a girl she barely knew. but she couldn’t help it. only a beat passed before yunjin was smiling knowingly at you.

“he was on your instagram?” yunjin elbowed you teasingly.

your cheeks were hurting from smiling to hard. you bashfully shook your head.

“he’s just being nice.“ you say shyly, but you hope he’s not just being nice. you hope he’s being flirty, and that he wants to hold your hand inside of his pretty ones.

“i’ve known sungchan for years and he’s probably the nicest on the team but that was not just nice. that was something just a little different.” yunjin held up her fingers inches from each other for emphasis.

“what do you mean?” you asked.

“hopefully you get better at picking up hints when he talks to you later.” yunjin laughed at your aloofness.

you actually didn’t pick up the hints. sungchan walked with you to your car after practice everyday without fail. you thought it was him being a gentleman. he would walk with you to class, holding your books. you thought it was because he was nice. when his teammates would coo at you and tease him when you walked by you thought it was them being silly. this went on for months. at first you had thought that he was flirting with you, but after a few weeks of him not even touching you, you began to condition yourself to only be his friend.

it wasn’t until you stayed late after practice one day learning how to skate on the ice with sungchan skating backwards facing you. he had that same smile on his face when you would get extra flustered around him. you skated on the ice with your arms stretched out, freaked out by the thought of falling and breaking something.

“sungchan!” you said his name after almost losing your balance “i’m gonna fall!”

“i won’t let you fall. don’t be scared.” sungchan said teasingly. his smile only got wider.

“if i fall it’s your fault.”

“bend your legs to stop.” sungchan demonstrated the proper form and you copied him. you bent your legs and you could feel your already slow speed get slower. when you finally came to a stop, sungchan skated forward closer to you. you tried not to freak out, being so close to him.

you guys were like that for a moment. him in front of you and you slightly wobbling on the ice. you couldn’t bring yourself to look up at him, because you knew he was already looking down at you. when he looked down at you a certain way, you forgot that you were only his friend. to keep your sanity you stared at his chest, usually covered in his hockey gear but now he wore his casual clothes. you couldn’t look at his puffer jacket too much, because you might start to think what’s underneath. you shift your focus to his hands that are picking at the seams of his jeans.

“are your hands cold?” you asked, still not making eye contact.

“what? oh no. i’m just kinda nervous.” sungchan said truthfully. his hands stopped picking at the seams and now rested at his side.

“am i that much of a hazard on the ice?” you laugh slightly trying not to take to much focus off of trying to balance.

you look up at him now. sungchan looks at you the same way he would be on the ice, thinking about his next move. his brown eyes are still so piercing but so soft. he looks directly into your eyes as he places both of his hands on your shoulders.

“i don’t know how to make it anymore obvious that i like you.” sungchan says it simply. you can feel your legs wobbling on the ice. you try extremely hard to not collapse right in front of him. you grab onto him to find some stability.

“i like you too.” it comes out meek. you curse yourself for being such a coward.

“no i like really like you. like more than a friend. i don’t know if you feel the same way. you’re just so cute and talented and smart and funny and nice and—“

sungchan is running off at the mouth. you have never seen him so shy, rubbing your arms up and down in tandem with his words.

“i really like you too. i was too nervous to i thought you were just being nice. i didn’t want to assume.” you smile at him, trying not to focus too much on his lips. you grab his hand, wondering why they were so soft and warm in yours. you partially hold his hand for stability from the ice.

“can i kiss you?” he asks.

you simply nod and lean forward. you see sungchan bend down to get closer to your lips. you close your eyes. months of pining and waiting were leading you to this, holding sungchan’s hand while he leans in to kiss you. you were too busy being on cloud nine that you forgot in reality you were on ice. when you got on your tippy toes to match his height, you lost your balance completely. you went face first into sungchan’s chest. he partially kept his promise to not let you fall, holding you up. you were so frantic and caught off guard by the change in your equilibrium that you put all your weight on him at the speed of light. this made sungchan lose his balance, and he fell on his ass, bringing you down with him.

you kept your head in his chest, mortified by how you managed to embarrass yourself so quickly. sungchan’s loud and boyish laughter pulled you from your embarrassment. you looked up and saw his big smile, head thrown back as he laughed. you joined him, giggling into his jacket. sungchan laughed the whole time he got up, and still laughed as he pulled you off the ground.

“i haven’t fallen like that since i was first on the ice.” sungchan dusted snow off of you before he dusted it off himself. you knew sungchan started ice hockey at a very young age, so you didn’t dare to ask him when he first stepped on the ice.

when the ice resurfacer came into the rink sungchan carefully led you off the ice, instructing you to put your hands on his hips as he skated towards the exit.

you two left the rink long after everyone else. sungchan walked you to your car, one of the three left in the parking lot. he opened the door for you as you climbed into the drivers seat. he closed the door for you too. after turning on your car sungchan folded his arms to lean on the open window of your car. he put his head in the palm of his hand, looking up to smile at you.

“thanks for trying to show me to skate.” you wanted to bring up the kiss you two almost had. the look in sungchan’s eyes was the same as when he went in the first time. you waited patiently.

”thanks for making me laugh.”

you two sat like that for three extremely fast heartbeats.

“are you going to wonbin’s christmas party?” sungchan asked quickly. you shook your head.

you were friends with the goalie of the ice hockey team. wonbin was funny, quiet, and good at his sport. when he said that the annual christmas party he throws for his team and friends was always fun, you never stopped to consider this an invitation. when yunjin said she was going with anton as “friends”, you didn’t dare to impose on the relationship that was blossoming.

“it’s tonight, isn’t it?” you looked at the clock on your phone. it wasn’t late by any means. 8:30 PM on a saturday was prime party time.

“i’m going there right now, actually.”

“i hope you have fun.”

“i would have more fun if you went with me.”

“i don’t know where wonbin lives.”

“i can text you his address. or you can follow my car. or i can drive you there and then drop you back off here. he lives only like five minutes from here.”

you thought about your options. sungchan gave you three, but there was definitely a fourth one floating around in your head. you could’ve said no and drove yourself home. you thought about all the regret you’d have if you didn’t go with him so you rolled up your window and took your keys out of the ignition. sungchan opened the car door for you with the biggest smile on his face. his car was only parked one space over, so he opened the passenger seat for you as well. sungchan smiled all the way to wonbin’s house. he was right about it being only five minutes away.

sungchan ran around his car before you could even take off your seatbelt. he opened your door for you, reaching in the back of his car for something. he was looking intensely, half his body in the passenger seat. it was unfair how even his backside was pretty, long and tranquil like a daydream.

when sungchan came out of his car, he had a christmas sweater and a santa hat. sungchan was already decked in his gear, a simple christmas sweater underneath his puffer jacket. you quickly realized the apparel was for you.

“wow, you really thought ahead.” you pulled the sweater over the shirt you had. you didn’t want the hat, so sungchan put it on his head instead.

“didn’t want you to feel out of place or anything.” sungchan said.

you two walked side by side to wonbin’s door. it was a large house, probably the largest one you’ll ever be in. you look at the hedges and the trees and the window. anything to get your mind off of how dangerously close your hand were to sungchan’s. just by walking side by side your knuckles were grazing his. he was so close, but so far away. half way up wonbin’s driveway, sungchan grabbed your hand.

you froze. you wanted to be cool, to take it all in stride and to try and seem as unaffected as possible. this was impossible. you were smiling uncontrollably when sungchan looked down at you.

“is this okay?” he asked. you nodded your head, squeezing his hand for emphasis. sungchan rang the doorbell, texted wonbin, and knocked on the door all with one hand.

wonbin came to the door pretty fast, swinging it open. it caught you a little off guard, but not as off guard as wonbin was when he looked down at you and sungchan holding hands. shotaro comes to the door and so does sohee. you feel a little shy seeing them all focus on your hands.

“i thought you guys would be doing your little dance forever.” sohee says.

you see anton’s phone before you see him, taking a picture of you two awkwardly standing at wonbin’s door holding hands.

it was less awkward when you got into wonbin’s house. his house was still packed. you recognized the people on the ice hockey team, but other than that and a few familiar faces you had no idea who any of these people were. you hold onto sungchan’s hand tightly as he navigates you through the crowds of people to the drink table.

“do you want anything?” sungchan asks, opening a bottle of sparkling grape juice. you grab a glass and point at the bottle. sungchan pours you both a glass. it doesn’t go unnoticed that he poured you more after hearing you exclaim it’s your favorite thing to drink.

you both mingle and walk around the party together. sungchan is nice enough to tell you how he knows the people he knows, telling you something about them that would help you keep a conversation going naturally if needed. you mostly trailed behind him and you guys talked in various places of wonbin’s house.

by the drink bar you talked about how wonbin stalked your social media when he first heard your name. he was intrigued by your pictures and wondered how his team managed to snag someone so talented to be their photographer for the semester. sungchan holds back using the word “fate” when you tell him how you ended up in your current situation. he even showed you his favorite photo of yours, the one where the man sat in front of two children hugging, sketching their picture on paper for them to have forever.

in wonbin’s kitchen you told sungchan how you thought he only saw you as a friend. you talk about moments where you thought he was going to make a move, and sungchan tells you he thought he was making a move. you shake your head as you two have two completely different perceptions of the same moment. sungchan saw moments of brushing your hand, holding your books, and walking to your car as trying to make you his girlfriend. you saw those moments as sweet things to remember, to keep a mental checklist of the type of person you want your boyfriend to be.

you two were on a lazy boy when you start talking about how you got into photography. you sit in the seat while sungchan is perched on the arm rest. you were in the middle of talking about your first camera when you are approached by yunjin, holding something behind her back.

“heyyyy you two.” yunjin is a little louder than usual. she is so obviously trying to hide something.

“hey yunjin,” you look at the big smile on her face. she has a little bit of her lipstick rubbed off and you make a mental note to corner anton later. “what’s behind your back?”

“oh this?” yunjin coyly says bringing out a full branch of mistletoe. she dangles the end of the mistletoe in between you and sungchan. sungchan laughs out loud, bringing a hand to cover his face. you smile, your face getting hot.

the attention from the rest of the party is on you two in a second. people come from the kitchen and the living room to huddle around you and sungchan. your cheeks heat up and sungchan holds your hand while laughing.

“you are insane.” you say to yunjin.

“i am being a good wingwoman. now please kiss your man, my arm is getting tired.” yunjin smiles and the faces of the ice hockey team light up realizing you and sungchan are finally about to put an end to the months of pining.

the party was two seconds away from chanting “kiss” when you feel sungchan staring at you. you turn to look at his smiling face. you smile too, and smile even harder when his hand slides against your cheek. he takes your other cheek is his hand and you put yours on his forearms. he bends down from his perch on the armrest to press his lips to yours. the kiss is feathery and light, his lips soft and smooth. just as quickly as he goes in he pulls away, but you felt like you were held in that moment for millennia. when sungchan pulls away, the entire room erupts in cheers and claps. you feel awkward only for a moment until sungchan stands and pulls you from the lazy boy. he bows like he just gave a show and you do too. this makes you feel less awkward for some reason, making light of a situation that could’ve been mortifying. you are almost amazed your mind didn’t immediately go to the worst case scenario, playing out the situation with a level head.

after the crowd disperses, sungchan grabs your hand and leads you upstairs, away from people.

sungchan opens the door to a dark room, and turns on the light. you know it’s wonbin’s room by the medals and framed jersey on the wall. when he closes the door, he looks at you worried.

“i should’ve told you they do that. i completely forgot i’m sorry.” sungchan looks at you, sad for putting you in that situation.

“sungchan it’s okay. it’s all lighthearted and fun,” you grab sungchan’s two hands and move them back and forth. “plus i liked it. i want to keep doing it.”

sungchan freezes the same way you did when he grabbed your hand. he looks at you with wide eyes and then smirks.

you and sungchan spend the next half hour in the others arms. the kisses start light, the sound of you two breaking apart bouncing off the walls. you both take turns caressing cheeks and feeling exposed skin. sungchan takes his time kissing you, only breaking apart to breathe or to tell you how pretty you are. he kisses you all over your face, a flurry of pecks that doesnt leave a single part of your face unkissed. when sungchan’s says he can’t believe he finally gets to kiss you, you smile and nod in agreement. you can’t stop yourself from telling him about his soft hands and soft demeanor, how gentle he is towards you. but you have to remind him that you are not glass and you will not break if he pulls you in a little harder and kisses you a little rougher. months of pining and thinking about kissing him could not be sated with gentle pecks and hand holding.

he pulls you in again desperately others, and you bunch up his christmas sweater to show him how pent up you are. you both take turns tilting your heads and deepening kisses. he places a kiss to your neck feeling butterflies spring from the imprint of his lips. sungchan grips your shoulders when you do the same to him. his saliva is sweet like sparkling grape soda and his tongue is as soft and gentle as his hands.

#seriez: bases #01zfan: sungchan #sungchan smut #riize smut

462 notes · View notes

hunterrrs · 4 months

Text

Monday morning, the nerves were long gone, her prep work was largely done and the magnitude of the looming moment finally hit Michelle Crechiolo hard.

That night, when the Penguins battled the Philadelphia Flyers, she would become the first female broadcaster to ever call a regular season Penguins game.

When Crechiolo realized that morning that she would be a trailblazer and perhaps an inspiration to other women in hockey, her thoughts drifted to one of her favorite photos — a picture of her when back she was playing in Mini Mites.

“It’s making me emotional thinking about it now,” she later told the Post-Gazette, her voice quivering. “I’ve got the Jofa gloves, wooden stick. I’ve got on a little pink turtleneck under all my equipment. And I’m just posing and cheesing, and I’m missing a tooth. And I’m just so happy to be a hockey player.

“I’m just thinking about what that little girl would say if I told her that I was doing this, doing color commentary on a Pittsburgh Penguins radio broadcast. It’s just so surreal. It really is. I stuck with hockey because I loved it, and it’s led me here. And I just couldn’t be more grateful to be in this position. It’s wild.”

Around 10 a.m. Sunday, Crechiolo received a text message from Leo McCafferty, the Penguins’ vice president of content and production. He told her they believed she would be a great option to step in for Phil Bourque, who was sick. He asked if she would be up for taking his place on the radio broadcast.

“I was like, ‘Oh, hell yeah,’” she said with a laugh. “That was my response.”

When she hung up the phone, she had a brief moment of nervousness, wondering what she had just gotten herself into. But then she just felt “pure excitement.” She rushed downstairs to share the news with her boyfriend, Chuck.

“That’s when it hit me. ‘Oh my god, I’m going to be the color analyst on a National Hockey League broadcast between the Penguins and Flyers,’” she said.

Not only that, Crechiolo is the first woman to do play-by-play or color commentary on a local TV or radio broadcast for any of Pittsburgh’s three big-league teams.

Once Crechiolo calmed down, she went about her business as usual. She headed to UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex to watch practice, then in the locker room she gathered as many “nuggets” as she could for Monday’s broadcast.

Sidney Crosby, Jake Guentzel, Tristan Jarry and Rickard Rakell were among the players who gave her support and advice — or a good-natured ribbing.

When they began broadcasting her quick hits up on the Jumbotron, Crechiolo was anxious about stepping into an on-camera role. But something coach Mike Sullivan said about a player making his NHL debut resonated with her.

“He said, ‘It’s not about putting pressure on yourself. You’re there for a reason. It’s about getting excited for the opportunity, because you’re just doing something you love to do,’” Crechiolo said. “And that was how I felt about this.”

michelle 🥰🥰🥰

#ahhhhhh #the guys giving her advice/teasing her #so good #pittsburgh penguins #sidney crosby #jake guentzel #tristan jarry

376 notes · View notes

misshoneyimhome · 2 months

Text

「2️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ FOLLOWERS CELEBRATION」

“Wait… you like me?” I Jack Hughes 2️⃣5️⃣0️⃣

Summary; In the world of hockey, you share a close friendship with Jack Hughes. Yet, as your feelings for him grow over time, you decide to keep them hidden. However, when fate suddenly pushes you to confront your emotions, will Jack risk your friendship for something more?

Tropes & warnings; friends to lovers; teasing/light bullying; some sort of sadness; hidden feelings; fear of one-sided love;

Other notes; so, I'm actually starting to find writing about this lad quite enjoyable; I mean, just take a look at him! He's absolutely adorable 🤗

Word count; 1.6K

・✶ ｡ﾟ

You met Jack Hughes for the first time nearly a year after he was drafted, when you had just started working for the New Jersey Devils organization. You had volunteered for some unpaid media tasks, eager to establish yourself in the hockey community, which occasionally allowed you to get closer to the players. And already within your first few weeks at the hockey rink, Jack immediately noticed your curious and focused expression. Without even knowing why, he felt drawn to your shy smile and decided to strike up a conversation with you.

Although his high level of confidence initially took you by surprise, you were instantly charmed by his adorable smile and laughter. And with a combination of cheesy jokes, hockey references, and a playful sense of humour, Jack quickly grasped your deep love and passion for the sport, which only intrigued him further.

You had to admit, it felt as though your friendship blossomed out of nowhere. You bonded over analysing plays, discussing strategies, and the excitement of being part of the Devils' community. And being from the area yourself, you happily showed him around, unveiling all the hidden treasures unknown to many, as you got to know each other on deeper levels.

Jack couldn’t help but admire your dedication and knowledge of hockey, finding your passion for the sport captivating – much like his own. He appreciated how you cheered him on from the side lines, occasionally donning his jersey, and noticed your unwavering commitment to following the team whenever possible.

Yet, as your friendship gradually deepened over the following years, you couldn't deny that you found yourself relishing the time spent with him more and more. His infectious boyish smile, his amusing Florida accent, and his genuine kindness all contributed to making you feel at ease whenever you were in his presence. And as you both transitioned into adulthood, you felt yourself slowly developing deeper emotions for him.

However, you kept these feelings concealed, fearing the potential risk to your friendship. Moreover, you couldn't shake the belief that Jack was entirely out of your league. He was talented, charismatic, and had a magnetic personality that drew people to him. All the girls who pursued him exuded glamour and confidence, and you couldn't help but feel like you didn't measure up.

But though you didn't align with the same interests as those girls – preferring quiet evenings discussing hockey stats over amazing dinners – Jack valued your genuine calm and laid-back demeanour. He appreciated your dedication to your work and simply relished spending time with you, whether engaged in hockey conversations or simply enjoying each other's company.

And despite your insecurities, you treasured your friendship with Jack as well, grateful for the connection you shared. You simply never entertained the thought that he could view you as anything beyond a friend. Thus, you chose to keep your feelings hidden, content with enjoying his company and offering support in any way possible.

However, on one fateful night, fate seemed to conspire against you.

As the arena hummed with excitement, the New Jersey Devils celebrated yet another hard-earned victory over their rivals. Amidst a sea of cheering fans, you stood, passionately supporting the team you had grown to adore, as the energy was palpable, and the jubilation of the win filled the air.

And following the game, you found yourself in the company of Jack and several other members of the Devils organization. However, as you shared laughter and conversation, revelling in the triumph, the discussion suddenly took an unexpected turn.

The girls in the group began to tease you in a playful manner about your close friendship with Jack, their words carrying a mischievous undertone. Initially, it was light-hearted banter, harmless jests exchanged among friends. However, their teasing gradually veered towards a more pointed direction, causing a blush to spread across your cheeks with embarrassment.

"I swear, y/n, every time Jack scores a goal, you look at him as though he's the only person in the room," one of the girls teased, nudging you with her elbow.

And then another girl joined in, her laughter resonating through the air. "Yeah, it's as if you're completely smitten with him or something."

You attempted to shrug off their remarks with a nervous chuckle, but instead, it only seemed to encourage their teasing further.

"I think she might actually have a bit of a crush on him," one of them remarked, her tone laced with mock seriousness.

And then the realization hit you like a ton of bricks, and you felt your cheeks flushing even warmer. No matter how hard you tried to conceal it, you couldn't deny the truth in their words.

"Oh my gosh! She does... y/n's got a thing for Jack Hughes, how adorable," the first girl exclaimed, her laughter ringing through the hallway.

And nable to bear the embarrassment any longer, you hastily excused yourself from the group, muttering something about needing to freshen up. You spun on your heel and hurried away, seeking to put as much distance between yourself and the teasing girls as possible.

"Wait, y/n, hold on," Jack called out to you, his voice gentle but insistent.

But just as you thought you had managed to escape, you felt a gentle hand on your arm, halting your retreat. Turning around, you were met with Jack's concerned gaze, his expression soft yet urgent. Yet, you couldn't bring yourself to look him in the eye, the embarrassment still blazing hot on your cheeks.

"Y/n, don't walk away like that..." Jack pleaded, his grip tightening around your arm.

"Please, Jack," you attempted to shake him off, your voice barely audible. "I just want to go home, okay? You can just go back to your friends."

"What, no,” Jack's voice betrayed confusion and concern. "I'm not done talking to you."

You sighed, giving in slightly, pulling your hand to cross your arms across your chest. "Fine, then let’s talk?"

"I want to know about what they were saying back there," he said, his tone grave.

You bit your lip, feeling the blush returning to your cheeks, your arms tucking yourself tightly in a defence. "It's nothing, just silly chatter among girls."

Jack shook his head, his brows knitting together. "It didn't sound like nothing. They were discussing you and me, weren't they?"

You shifted uncomfortably, avoiding his gaze. "They... they were just teasing. It's not important." You tried to force a light chuckle, but your heavy breaths failed you.

"Y/n," Jack said softly, his thumb brushing over the back of your hand, sending shivers down your spine. “Talk to me.”

Your heart raced in your chest as you struggled to find the right words, tears pressing on, yet you managed to hold them back. "I... Jack, I..."

He lifted your chin gently, compelling you to meet his gaze. "Wait... you like me?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

You swallowed hard, feeling the intensity of his stare. "Yes," you admitted quietly. "But I understand if you don't feel the same way. I mean, look at me, I'm nothing like the girls you're used to..."

Jack's expression softened; his thumb moving to trace gentle circles on your cheek. "Y/n, I don’t want you to be like those girls. You're not like anyone else I know. And that's what I like about you. You're passionate, driven, and you love hockey just as much as I do. You're not just some random girl to me, you're my best friend."

Tears welled up in your eyes, overwhelmed by his words. "But what about those other girls? The ones who are always around you, the ones who..."

"They mean nothing to me," Jack interrupted, his voice firm. "The only person I care about is you."

You searched his eyes, finding nothing but sincerity and warmth reflected back at you. And in that moment, you realized that there was a chance that everything was about to change.

"Jack," you whispered. "I like you. More than just a best friend."

A smile spread across Jack's face, and before you knew it, he was leaning in, his lips meeting yours in a gentle kiss. As you melted into his embrace, you couldn't help but think that perhaps, just perhaps, this was the start of something truly special.

And in that tender moment when Jack's lips met yours, all your worries and insecurities seemed to slowly dissolve. There was only the two of you, wrapped in the warmth of each other's embrace.

You leaned into the kiss, relishing the sensation of Jack's lips against yours, his gentle touch sending shivers down your spine. It felt like a dream come true, something you had only dared to imagine in your wildest fantasies.

And as the kiss deepened, you were swept away by a rush of emotions – joy, relief, and an overwhelming sense of love. It was surreal to believe that Jack felt the same way about you, that he saw you as more than just a friend.

Then breaking away from the kiss, he looked into your eyes with a soft smile. "I've wanted to do that for so long," he confessed, his voice brimming with sincerity.

And you couldn't help but smile back, feeling a wave of happiness wash over you. "Me too," you whispered, your heart overflowing with love for the man standing before you.

In that moment, everything felt perfect – the world around you faded away, leaving only the two of you lost in each other's embrace.

"So, you like me too, huh?" You chuckled lightly, breaking the silence that enveloped you.

"Yeah, probably have for a while…" Jack's admission was timid, his voice betraying a hint of vulnerability.

"You should’ve said something," you spoke almost nervously, feeling a little ridiculous for not having had the courage to speak up sooner.

"Sorry, I was afraid you didn’t feel the same…" Jack's words were filled with regret.

You couldn't suppress a light laughter, the tension dissipating. "Jack, how could I not feel the same? Everyone likes you."

"Told you, to me you’re different. But I’m just happy that you do like me… because I’m crazy about you," Jack confessed, his words filled with sincerity and warmth.

And with another kiss, you sealed the newfound relationship, the warmth of it echoing the promise of a future filled with love and happiness.

#2️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ followers celebration #jack hughes imagine #jack hughes x reader #new jersey devils imagine #nhl fanfiction #nhl imagine

385 notes · View notes

estapa-edwards · 17 days

Text

MEDIA GIRL - L. HUGHES

paring: Luke Hughes x fem! reader

word count: 2.4k

requested? yes - luke falling in love with the media girl at the new jersey devil and finally asking her out

warnings: use of y/n. multiple pov

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

I've been working closely with the Devils for the past couple of years, crafting content, capturing moments, and sharing the team's journey with fans around the world. It's a job I love, immersed in the world of hockey and surrounded by passionate individuals who share the same love for the sport.

One player, in particular, had caught my eye since he joined the team – Luke Hughes. As a rising star defenseman, he commanded attention on the ice with his skillful play and undeniable charisma. But it wasn't just his performance on the rink that intrigued me; there was something about his infectious smile and genuine personality that drew me in.

As the seasons passed and the rhythm of the hockey calendar dictated our lives, Luke and I found ourselves drawn together by the magnetic pull of our shared experiences. It was during those moments in between the action, the quiet lulls amidst the chaos, that our connection began to deepen.

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

During interviews, our conversations would often veer off course, wandering into topics far beyond the scope of the game. Luke's genuine curiosity about my life outside of the arena was both surprising and endearing. We swapped stories about our childhoods, our favorite movies, and our shared love for good food. It was during these impromptu exchanges that I discovered the layers beneath the confident exterior of the hockey star – the insecurities, the dreams, the quirks that made him undeniably human.

Promotional shoots became an opportunity for us to explore our creative sides together. Whether we were brainstorming ideas for social media campaigns or striking poses for team merchandise, there was an undeniable synergy between us. Luke's playful nature brought out the best in me, inspiring me to push the boundaries of my creativity and embrace the spontaneity of the moment.

And then there were the social media campaigns – our bread and butter in the digital age of sports marketing. As the social media coordinator for the Devils, I was responsible for crafting content that resonated with fans and showcased the team's personality both on and off the ice. Luke, with his infectious energy and natural charisma, was the perfect partner in crime. Whether we were filming behind-the-scenes videos, hosting live Q&A sessions, or engaging with fans on Twitter, our dynamic duo captured the hearts of Devils fans everywhere.

But amidst the whirlwind of interviews, shoots, and campaigns, it was the quiet moments in between that I cherished the most. The stolen glances across a crowded room, the shared smiles that spoke volumes without a single word exchanged. It was during those moments that I felt the walls around my heart slowly crumbling, giving way to the possibility of something more than just friendship.

And as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, I couldn't shake the feeling that Luke Hughes had become more than just a teammate or a colleague – he had become a permanent fixture in my life, a constant presence that I couldn't imagine living without.

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

As the final buzzer sounded, signaling the Devils' hard-fought victory on the ice, the arena erupted into a cacophony of cheers and applause. Luke and Y/N found themselves caught up in the swell of excitement and emotion, the electric atmosphere pulsating around them like a living, breathing entity.

Y/N's heart pounded in her chest as she watched with bated breath, her eyes fixed on Luke as he skated across the rink, his movements fluid and graceful, his arms raised triumphantly in the air. In that moment, he was more than just a hockey player – he was a hero, a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

"That was incredible," Y/N exclaimed, her voice tinged with awe as she watched him bask in the glow of their win. The pride swelling in her chest was palpable, a surge of emotion threatening to overwhelm her as she realized the magnitude of what they had accomplished together.

Luke flashed her a grin, his eyes shining with adrenaline-fueled excitement. "Thanks, Y/N," he replied, his voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I couldn't have done it without your support."

Y/N felt her breath catch in her throat at his words, her heart skipping a beat as she absorbed the weight of his gratitude. It was a simple acknowledgment, a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of things, but to her, it meant everything. It was validation – validation of her hard work, her dedication, her unwavering belief in him and the team.

"You're welcome," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll always be here to cheer you on, no matter what." Her words were a promise, a pledge of allegiance to the man who had captured her heart without even realizing it.

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

It was during one particularly intense game that everything changed. The Devils were down a goal with minutes left on the clock, tension thick in the air as the crowd held its breath. In a dramatic turn of events, Luke managed to score the tying goal, sending the arena into a frenzy of cheers and applause.

Amidst the celebration, our eyes met across the crowded arena, a shared moment of triumph and exhilaration. And in that instant, I knew – I was falling for Luke Hughes.

But as the game ended and the crowd began to disperse, doubt crept into my mind. What if I was misreading the signs? What if our connection was nothing more than professional courtesy? I pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the task at hand as I followed the team to the locker room for post-game interviews.

It was there, amidst the chaos of the locker room, that Luke sought me out. His eyes were bright with excitement, a victorious grin playing on his lips as he approached me.

"Hey, Y/N," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth. "I just wanted to say thanks for all your hard work. That goal wouldn't have been possible without you."

I felt my cheeks flush with heat, a rush of emotions swirling inside me as I met his gaze. "It was all you out there," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "You played an amazing game."

Luke smiled, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he leaned in closer. "Hey, do you maybe want to grab dinner sometime? You know, to celebrate the win?"

My heart skipped a beat, the world around us fading away as I processed his words. Luke Hughes, asking me out on a date? It felt like a dream come true.

"Um, yeah," I stammered, a smile spreading across my face. "I would love to."

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

LUKES POV

Luke Hughes sat in the locker room, his mind swirling with thoughts of the game ahead. The adrenaline coursed through his veins, his heart pounding with anticipation. But amidst the excitement of the upcoming match, there was another thought that lingered at the back of his mind – Y/N.

From the moment he first laid eyes on her, Luke knew there was something special about Y/N. It wasn't just her beauty or her infectious smile that drew him in; it was the way she carried herself, with a confidence and grace that was impossible to ignore. And as he got to know her better, he discovered that beneath the surface, there was a kindness and warmth that made her truly captivating.

As the seasons passed and their paths continued to intertwine, Luke found himself drawn to Y/N in ways he couldn't explain. There was a magnetic pull between them, a natural chemistry that made every interaction feel effortless and meaningful. Whether they were working together on promotional shoots or sharing moments of quiet camaraderie in between interviews, Luke felt a connection with Y/N that went beyond words.

But it wasn't just her professional prowess that impressed him – it was her passion for the game, her dedication to her craft, and her unwavering support for the team that truly captured his heart. In Y/N, Luke found a kindred spirit, someone who shared his love for hockey and understood the sacrifices he made to pursue his dreams.

And as he sat in the locker room, preparing to take the ice with his teammates, Luke couldn't shake the feeling that Y/N was more than just a colleague or a friend – she was someone he could see himself building a future with. But he also knew that crossing that line was fraught with uncertainty and risk. What if she didn't feel the same way? What if their relationship changed the dynamic of their team?

Luke Hughes leaned against the wall of the locker room, his heart pounding in his chest as he stole a glance at Y/N across the room. She was engrossed in conversation with a colleague, her laughter ringing out like music in the air. For a moment, he hesitated, his mind swirling with doubts and uncertainties. But then he remembered the way she had looked at him during the game, the spark of excitement in her eyes as they celebrated their victory together. And in that moment, he knew – he had to take a chance.

Pushing himself away from the wall, Luke crossed the room with determined strides, his heart racing with nerves as he approached Y/N. As he drew closer, he could feel the weight of his words hanging in the air, a lump forming in his throat as he struggled to find the right thing to say.

"Hey, Y/N," he said, his voice slightly shaky but filled with genuine warmth. "I just wanted to say thanks for all your hard work tonight. That goal wouldn't have been possible without you."

Y/N looked up at him, her eyes shining with surprise and gratitude. "Oh, it was nothing," she replied, her voice soft but sincere. "You played an amazing game out there."

Luke smiled, his confidence growing with each passing moment. "Listen, I was thinking," he began, his words tumbling out in a rush of excitement. "Would you maybe want to grab dinner sometime? You know, to celebrate the win?"

As he waited for her response, Luke felt a surge of nervous energy coursing through his veins. What if she said no? What if he had misread the signs and made a fool of himself? But then Y/N's face broke into a radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"Um, yeah," she stammered, her cheeks flushing with color. "I would love to."

A wave of relief washed over Luke as he took in her words, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Great," he said, unable to contain his excitement. "How about tomorrow night? I know this great Italian place downtown."

Y/N nodded eagerly, her smile widening with each passing second. "Sounds perfect," she replied, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm.

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

The soft glow of candlelight bathed the cozy Italian restaurant in a warm, inviting ambiance as Luke and I sat across from each other, our conversation flowing effortlessly like a river winding its way through the night. From the moment we arrived, there had been a palpable energy between us – a sense of anticipation that hung in the air like a promise waiting to be fulfilled.

As we sipped on glasses of red wine and savored bites of delicious pasta, the outside world faded away, leaving only the two of us lost in our own little bubble of bliss. Luke's laughter filled the air, a melodic symphony that echoed in my ears like music to my soul.

"So, tell me more about yourself," he said, his eyes sparkling with genuine curiosity. "What do you like to do when you're not busy running the Devils' social media empire?"

I couldn't help but smile at his playful tone, the warmth of his gaze sending shivers down my spine. "Well, I'm a bit of a bookworm," I confessed, feeling a rush of excitement as I shared a piece of myself with him. "I love getting lost in a good novel, especially anything with a bit of mystery or romance."

Luke nodded, his expression thoughtful as he leaned in closer. "I can relate to that," he admitted, his voice low and intimate. "There's something magical about getting lost in a story, isn't there? It's like you're transported to a whole other world."

As the night wore on and the hours slipped away, our conversation deepened, weaving through topics both trivial and profound. We talked about our hopes and dreams, our fears and insecurities, laying bare our souls like open books for the other to read.

And then, amidst the laughter and the shared moments of connection, there was a shift in the air – a subtle change that left me breathless with anticipation. As Luke reached across the table to refill my wine glass, his touch sent a jolt of electricity coursing through my veins, igniting a fire deep within my heart.

"Y/N," he began, his voice soft but filled with conviction. "There's something I need to tell you."

I held my breath, my heart pounding in my chest as I waited for him to continue. In that moment, the world around us seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of us suspended in time, lost in a moment of shared intimacy.

"I know we've only known each other for a relatively short time," Luke continued, his eyes locked with mine, "but from the moment I met you, I felt something special – something I've never felt before."

I felt a rush of warmth flood my cheeks as I listened to his words, my heart swelling with emotion. "Luke," I whispered, my voice barely above a whisper. "I feel it too."

And then, without hesitation, he reached across the table and took my hand in his, his touch sending a wave of tingles dancing across my skin. "Y/N," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "I know this might sound crazy, but I think I'm falling for you."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I gazed into his, the depth of his feelings mirrored in the depths of his soul. In that moment, I knew – I was falling for him too, falling harder and faster than I ever thought possible.

And as we sat there, hand in hand, lost in the glow of the candlelight and the warmth of each other's presence, I couldn't help but feel like the luckiest girl in the world. For in Luke Hughes, I had found not just a teammate or a colleague, but a kindred spirit – someone who saw me for who I truly was and loved me all the more for it.

And as our eyes met across the table, a silent vow passed between us – a promise to cherish this moment, this connection, for as long as our hearts beat as one.

#luke hughes x y/n #luke hughes x reader #luke hughes fic #new jersey devils #nj devils #hockey #nhl x reader #nhl

293 notes · View notes

boba-beom · 2 months

Text

*:･ﾟ❅･ﾟskate to my heart | KANG TAEHYUN

pairing: taehyun x fem!reader

genre: oneshot; fluff, bsf2l

summary: after watching taehyun at practice several times, he eventually asked you to watch his last, big game for the season in exchange for a date later the same night. with an uncertified label and known feelings between the both of you, would taehyun end the day with two wins?

wc: 4.1k

warnings: not proofread :< bestfriends 2 lovers, taehyun courting reader, a sprinkle of jealousy, taehyun almost fought someone eep, very little hockey terminology+knowledge (inaccurate representation most likely), physical affection, littlesttt bit suggestive, reader admires taehyun a lot but she gets shy sometimes, lil emotional, minor misunderstangin, taehyun has a super soft spot for reader and ADORES her, confession, a little cheesy, a kiss :>

a/n: requested by anonie! thank you anonie for sending this through <3 I enjoyed writing this and I hope you enjoy reading! also 'courting' is when one person typically spends time and puts in effort with the person they are wanting to pursue! a little better than the talking stage lmao. I would also like to thank @gyupremacy @junniieesbby and @amoryeonjun for helping me come up with title options for this fic, ily guys (I may use one for a short sequel to this but that's for another day lmao)

a few days ago you had promised taehyun that you would come with him to his final hockey game for the season. in exchange, he made a promise to take you out on a date after, regardless if he wins or not.

and that led you to this very moment.

the sports venue was quite big, just the right size for the local games, with the building accommodating two rinks for figure skaters on the other side and ice hockey on the side you're on, in which you're seated by the acrylic panels so you were one of the closest to the rink.

just for taehyun.

he's the sole reason you've bought new outerwear and accessories to keep you warm within the rink, you even bought a jersey jumper with the colours of the team he is in. perhaps you went the extra mile and personalised it with his surname and birth date number.

"I hope you'll come to my hockey game this weekend. it's the last one for the season and it would mean a lot to me if you came along. and then afterwards I'll promise to take you on a date, please?"

his words echoed in your head as if he had told you just before you arrived at the sports venue. a smile had started creeping up on your face as you remembered the way he almost begged you to go on a date with him; his eyes gentle and his hand enveloped yours.

taehyun's team, rockets, had plenty of fans. some being seated a few rows behind you on your far left. it wasn't hard to miss them from the way you could hear high pitched squeals as soon as the players for rockets stepped their hockey skates onto the ice, watching the team skate past you one by one.

as each player glided past you, the cheers for the team were non-stop, whistles, screams and chants behind you. yet you managed to block them out a little — as if the lack of sounds would help you see better — and your eyes were darting around to look out for one player in particular.

then the crowd started to cheer significantly louder than before. that's when your eyes locked with a pair of large, round ones that had a familiar hold on yours. he sent you a subtle wave paired with a quick wink, and you thank god that you were sat at the front to catch that.

you waved your blue and red striped scarf, that you had bought just for him, as you called out for him and his team name as an attempt to hide the fact you could feel your cheeks heating up.

but taehyun noticed. you couldn't hide that from him.

the game wasn't going to start for another thirty minutes since the players were gliding around for their on-ice warm ups. you observed the way players would get comfortable on the ice, taking in long strides, others in smaller groups to do their crossover drills from one end of the rink to the other.

you noticed some of the crowd coming closer around you, to the acrylic panels since they were able to stand there within the duration of practice up until the puck drop. luckily you remained in your seat and was still able to have some space around you.

a call of your name caught your attention, but you knew it wasn't taehyun's voice from the sounds of it. a player from the opposing team, wearing the black and white kit, had slowed down skating in front of you, and attempted to spark your attention but you remained neutral and kept a tight lipped smile.

"yah! penguin. shouldn't you be on the other side of the rink?" your ears focus on taehyun's voice, muffling the sounds around you.

knowing taehyun, he was just being protective over you but you still had to make sure he didn't get into any fights. the game hadn't even started yet. he made his way past the opposing player, gliding past him as he slowed down right against the acrylic and knocked on it.

you okay? he mouthed at you with a little nod of assurance.

you gave him a soft smile with two thumbs up to give back the reassurance, but taehyun still felt compelled to stay a few seconds longer. he gave you a knowing look with a head tilt and brows raised slightly, but you couldn't help but laugh a little at his determination to make sure you were okay. again, you noded and smiled as you moved your wrists flicking outwards in a 'shoo' motion so he could get back into warming up with no distractions.

it was amusing that that was the first time taehyun behaved assertively in front of another player outside of the game. he usually had good sportsmanship with all players, however, this time around it seemed as thought he was more bothered than you were.

watching taehyun was nothing out of the norm for you since you always offered to come with him during his practices, admiring the way his skin glowed and reflected the light from the ice below him. watching the way he moved from one side of the rink to the other with steady and swift movements while in control of passing the puck was something you were always amazed about.

there had been a few cases when taehyun was free on the ice, face turning to look straight at you since he always knew where you would sit, and once he had your attention he'd quickly wave at you. you knew if you were on the ice yourself you would melt right through.

*:･ﾟ❅･ﾟ

after a good twenty minutes of the game, the first intermission had started. the teams made their way to their designated sides off the rink, rehydrating and even getting something to nibble on within the fifteen minutes they had.

some players came back onto the rink five minutes before the game resumed, skating to their assigned places. meanwhile you kept your eyes out for your best friend, but the same player from the opposing team made a return towards you.

you noticed but you paid him no attention, keeping that same tight lipped smile while your eyes were darting everywhere but in front of you.

he knocked on the clear barrier, and mouthed 'can I get your number?' and gestured his hand to a phone sign in which you slowly shook your head and mouthed a 'sorry'. he didn't seem to take it and asked again, begging at this point. you were about to shake your head again until a player in blue and red skimmed behind him and backed him up against the clear panel.

you stood up to get a better look and it was no other than taehyun. he was about to grab the other player by the collar of their kit until you had your hand flat on the surface and banging it against the acrylic three times to grasp his attention. taehyun's fist didn't reach the collar, thankfully, catching the worry in your eyes and he retracted his unravelling fist.

a sigh left you as you saw him back up from his opponent, your head shaking slowly at him while you mouth 'it's okay'. he was lucky he hadn't gone ahead with it otherwise it'd led to a five-minute major penalty towards him. he still had two thirds of the game left.

once you sat back down in your seat, you readied yourself for the next twenty minutes of the game. the teams were back in their designated sides of the rink, and taehyun was set in his position as center.

you focused on him, knees slightly bent, hands holding the hockey stick and his concentration on the center before the referee dropped the puck. he hits the puck as soon as it collided with the ice, and his movements remained swift and sharp as he and his teammates led the puck to the other side of the rink.

it was clear seeing the puck passed from taehyun, center, to the left winger then right winger, but so many players blocked your vision. it had you thinking the puck had been taken by the opposing team, though in a fraction of a second your ears were filled with the crowd cheering. from the sounds of it rockets had scored a goal, and you looked up at the screen above the rink to watch a quick replay of who scored the goal.

it was no other than the star player who has your heart.

you stood up, cheering and clapping, waving your scarf as you try and find him in your field of vision. almost as if you were in a movie, the hockey players skated aside and taehyun's skating towards his original position, facing you. you could see his teethy smile as he pointed out at you, hearing a few 'ooh's and whistles from the audience.

the pounding in your chest felt like it was about to burst and the heat crawling up to your cheeks were starting to burn you up. you shook your head at him again, this time sheepishly, as you bit the inside of your cheek, refraining your grin but you couldn't hold out and let out an endearing laugh.

*:･ﾟ❅･ﾟ

it was the second and last intermission of the overall game. the game time period had just finished up nicely, rockets' scores in the lead with nine and the opposing team with five. you had a good feeling about rockets winning the final twenty minutes of the game.

there were about eight minutes left of the intermission before they resumed the game, so you made your way through the row to the restroom.

as you walked down the corridor to find the toilets you felt a loose grasp on your wrist, making your gasp hitch in your throat and turn your head to see just the person you couldn't wait to see until the end of the game.

"tae, what are you doing here?" you whispered at him, the confusion on your face clear as day.

"I was too excited, I wanted to see you."

you noticed the way his slightly damp and dishevelled hair was grazing just by his brows, his face glowing from the sheer layer of sweat. and his eyes steady on yours.

"well," you slid your wrist out of his hold and played with his fingers. "we still have that date later tonight, remember?"

you looked up at him and you see a proud smirk on his lips, nodding his head slowly in attempt to keep in his excitement. but the rose hue on his cheeks were a big giveaway.

"I'll see you later then. I'll do my best for you, keep your eyes on me."

taehyun lifted your hand and lightly pressed his lips against the back of your fingers. the familiar feeling of your heart about to burst in your chest returned, and you caught the way the tips of his ears blushed the same pink tinge you saw earlier.

"do your best, my star player." you smiled at him, and he let out a soft scoff intertwined with his laugh. watching him walk away to get back onto the rink and finally letting you go to the restroom.

walking into the restroom you slammed your hands flat on the countertop beside the sink, looking at your reflection in disbelief.

"my star player?! really?" your expression changed when you repeated it again, smiling at yourself and shaking your head. "I must be out of my mind."

you can't believe how fast your feelings were brewing for your best friend. there's always been this unspoken dynamic between you, indirect words that mean something a little more, looks that only has your heart fluttering in your chest — and his. gestures that tended to linger and only either one of you would notice that it was a second longer than what would be considered 'platonic'.

snapping out of your reverie you went to use the toilet before making your way back to your seat. you had the final twenty minutes left and then the evening to talk to taehyun properly.

*:･ﾟ

there were five minutes left until the game was over, and during this game the opposing team had scored three times, bringing the current score for rockets with nine, still, and the opposing team with eight.

you hoped the game wouldn't end in a tie. it would be a shame to end the final game of the season in a tie. rockets were doing so well throughout the past two game, but this third game seemed to be the opposite of what they call 'the charm'.

"come on, come on. just one more point." you whispered to yourself, chanting nervously. your hands gripped onto your jacket, taking it off and revealing your customised jersey jumper reading 'KANG' with '05' underneath in bold.

as soon as you were sat comfortably, you checked the time once more; just under four minutes until the end of the game.

one last point and you'd be celebrating later in the evening.

you watched the puck passed around by the opposing team, almost accepting defeat until the players started skating towards the other end of the rink. rockets had the puck by their sticks and from all you could see, it was being passed repeatedly between the left winger and left defence. losing sight of it again it seems like the right winger had it until you saw taehyun receiving it.

with an extremely quick knock of his hockey stick against the puck, it flew into the goal for the final time this season and the speakers let out the horn indicating the end of the game. the screen above showed the final scores, rockets - 10 / guests - 8.

just in time, and your star player was surrounded by his teammates, each of them skating up to him and knocking the front of their helmets together. watching him being congratulated by his team was so endearing to watch — especially knowing just how much work he's put into this sport, knowing how much he loves it.

the crowd behind you was still full of cheers, whistles and chanting. but your eyes were fixed on taehyun as he took his helmet off, his hair a little more damp and dishevelled compared to when you saw him during the second intermission. that didn't stop him from looking incredible with his face literally glowing from his sweat and the ice reflecting off of the droplets.

he made a beeline towards you for the last time on the ice, a huge grin adorned on his face along with his asymmetrical dimple making an appearance.

was it because his team won? perhaps. was it because you were wearing the jersey with his name and birth date? most likely.

his smile was too contagious you didn't realise when you started smiling so hard, you were laughing a little too. the continuous cheers had you joining in, clapping towards taehyun, all while he mouthed a 'meet me by the foyer'.

after the crowd started moving, you made your way straight to the foyer, watching the audience walk past you as they exited the venue.

you're leaning against a pillar, watching the last strand of the light in the sky disappear through the floor to ceiling glass panels as your stomach was filled up with butterflies from the thought of going on a date with your best friend and making it a joint celebratory dinner.

a pair of hands abruptly weighed your shoulders down, having your heart leap out of your chest as you turn around to a giggly and cheerful taehyun.

"tyun! you were amazing out there!" you exclaimed, jumping up to hug him with your arms over his shoulders and his bag sliding down his arm, only hugging you with one arm around your waist.

"yeah well, I had to put on my best. you were watching." you playfully nudged his arm, biting back your grin but his was too contagious to hold back. "no but seriously, the team did so well tonight. they're going out to celebrate, actually."

your smile faltered in the littlest bit, thinking carefully before you asked him.

"do you want to go too? we can always rain check the date... if you want? I don't mind, seriously." you felt the guilt appear inside you, not wanting to hold him back. you saw how happy he was out there and it wasn't all the time you saw taehyun like that.

"hey, no." taehyun shrugged his bag strap to hang from his shoulder, and wrapped an arm around your shoulder, slowly walking out the exit together to toward the car park. "I have a date to go to and I wouldn't want to miss that for the world. I see those blokes almost every week anyway, I'll live."

taehyuns words brought the flutter back in your chest and you raised your hand to hold onto his that's hanging over your shoulder. the evening air was cool and taehyun's freshly washed hair was finally out of his face. from the angle you could see, he was literally the definition of perfection in your books.

letting his words process in your head, all you managed to say was, "ah, you're so cheesy." you let go of his hand to open the car door, sitting inside as you waited for him to put his stuff in the trunk and sit in the driver's seat.

"yeah, but you like it though." his voice had a playful tone, probably with a smile on his face, it was dark in the car. he wasn't even looking at you, buckling his seatbelt and inserting the key to start the car.

yeah. I do.

*:･ﾟ❅･ﾟ

it's almost been an hour since taehyun dropped you home to get ready and he did the same. you texted him saying that you were done and just waiting for him to pick you up, which didn't take too long because he fortunately didn't live too far away from you.

your phone's notification sound went off as he sent you a simple I'm outside text, but that was the norm with him. you grabbed your purse and shrugged on your coat over your dress, examining your final look through the body-length mirror in the hallway before unlocking the door.

a taehyun in a black button down, top button left undone and sleeves folded to a three quarters length up his forearm that matched nicely with his dark slacks was standing in front of you. and how could you look past the bouquet of red roses arranged with baby's breath, elegantly wrapped in decorative cellophane.

"for my beautiful date."

your lips formed a subtle pout as you retrieved the flowers from him, noticing the sheer bow wrapped around the stems.

"taehyun," your voice was meek, just audible enough until you cleared your throat. "these are stunning, thank you, handsome."

you walked back into the hallway to place them in an empty vase in which you emptied out a couple of days ago after you'd turned the old arrangement into dried flowers.

returning to the entrance, you released a heavy sigh while walking through the door, controlling yourself to not gawk at the gorgeous man stood on your porch.

"why?" taehyun stepped aside for you to shut and lock the door.

you could feel him hovering behind you, and you noticed his shadow casted over your shoulder and could be seen against the wooden door.

"because..." your voice trailed.

once you were done checking you had locked the door properly, you turned around, paying no attention that you were incredibly close to taehyun's face, his eyes darting to your lips before looking back up at your eyes. you lost your balance as your back almost crashed into the door if it wasn't for his hand resting on your lower back.

"because?" he parroted.

your chest was slightly heaving, knowing that he could potentially hear your heart drumming in your chest for the nth time that evening.

"um, because... we're gonna be late for our reservation." you hastily slid aside and walked towards his car as he trailed behind you, his hands in his pockets and letting out an amused scoff with an endeared smile on his face.

*:･ﾟ

to your relief, you had arrived just in time for your private reservation and you had nothing to worry about. the restaurant was beautiful — it was elegant. the high ceiling with dark grey marble pillars in each corner of the room to withhold the structure. a contrast from the ligher shade of grey for the tiled flooring.

"how long until the next season?" you asked taehyun, curious as you fiddled with the corner of the napkin on the table.

despite being with taehyun almost on a daily basis, this was something you weren't used to. the atmosphere was a little different, a little thicker and laced with something that hasn't been spoken about, but it's there.

you were nervous. you knew that, taehyun knew that and he could definitely see that. he reached his hand over to scoop up your fingers gently into his, and the motion of his thumb skimming over your knuckles somewhat helped with those nerves.

"this season only finished a few hours ago, ___." the continuous movement of his calloused fingers against yours had calmed you down enough, but you couldn't manage to look him in the eye until he tugged on your hand lightly. "but probably not for another couple of months or so, we'll see."

you both held eye contact, the longest you managed ever since he picked you up from your house. he opened his mouth to say something but you had already beat him to it, starting to speak before you realised.

"I meant it when I said this, but you genuinely looked so happy out there on the rink." he listened and nodded as he let you continue. "just seeing you so passionate about what you love on the ice rink at first hand was amazing, honestly." you let out a half hearted chuckle.

"well, part of it's because you're there to support me. throughout my practices, trainings and today's game." it was your turn to caress the inside of his palm, letting him know that you'd always be there for him. "and I have something to say."

you nod, listening intently.

"if it wasn't for you supporting me throughout, I don't know if I would've even continued up until now. I got this far because of you. and I know you can sense... whatever this attraction is between us too. you're my best friend and always will be," he paused, noticing the way you bit the inside of your cheek. "but I also want to be your lover."

taehyun didn't know if it was the reflection from the hanging lights above you, but he swore your eyes lit up. you didn't know if you were going to cry because you almost thought you were getting friendzoned, or it was because taehyun had cleared the air and asked to be your lover.

worry washes over taehyun's face, setting aside his utensils as he picked up his napkin to lightly dab on the stray tear that fell without your knowledge. he cooed at you, and you weakly laughed at yourself.

"I was afraid you were going to friendzone me for a second." you had taehyun lightly scoff and slowly shook his head at you, but his gaze softened, brows relaxed and eyes twinkling. "I'd love you to be my lover, tyun. and I'll love you twice as much."

your tears brimmed at your eyes, threatening to fall one after the other until taehyun decided to get out of his chair and walk over to you, a knee on the ground while he cupped your cheek and cooed you with sweet, reassuring words.

"I'd be a fool if I friendzoned you," he dabbed away the tears towards the outer corner of your eyes, "you okay?"

you nodded your head in certainty, cupping his cheek and you noticed the way his eyes are so focused on you, holding the galaxy within. the eyes of your best friend filled with nothing but love and adoration for you.

"tyun?" he hums at you whispering his name. "can I kiss you?"

he huffed an exhale paired with a hopeful nod, and his eyes are focused on your lips.

"please do."

you both let out relieved sighs once your lips collided. his hand gently slid from your cheek to the back of your neck as he deepened the kiss, melting into one another's touch. his moan got caught in the back of his throat the moment he felt your teeth gingerly tugging on his bottom lip before parting the kiss.

"you're just full of surprises, aren't you?" he chuckled at your expression once you realised what you did.

"well, there's a first for everything, isn't there?" your tone smug with a hint of confidence, taehyun attempted to keep a stoic expression.

"that's so cheesy." he stood up, stroking the top of your head and tucking a few loose strands behind your ear.

"but you liked it though." you replied, and he returned to his seat, facing you with a defeated but pleased look on his face.

"yeah, I do"

taglist: @choiwrld @yjusei @feyregels @ahnneyong @prodsh00ky @wccycc @lizdevorak @fairybin @laylasbunbunny @acaiasahi @ttyunz @cha0thicpisces @fairybinie @ja4hyvn @yunkiwii @aprilisque @https-yeonjun @lovejoshua @seolis-world @jak-ey @bb-eilish @iggynor4 @amethysts-1620 @ericyjun @luvsoobs @yeonyeonyeonjun @junniieesbby @kyrkitten @day6andetcetera @dainsleif-when-playable @txt-yaomi @soobinsman (send an ask to be part of the taglist, here's the taglist sheet for reference)

#k-labels #kflixnet #taehyun fluff #taehyun oneshot #taehyun soft hours #taehyun soft thoughts #taehyun imagines #taehyun scenarios #taehyun x fem reader #taehyun x reader #txt fluff #txt oneshot #txt soft hours #txt soft thoughts #txt imagines #txt scenarios #txt x fem reader #txt x reader

281 notes · View notes

sydnikov · 1 year

Note

saw you were asking about requests and if that’s still the case: something hurt/comfort where the reader is comforting svech when he finds out he has have to surgery, and helping him through the recovery process.

either established relationship or a feelings realization maybe? whatever you’re most comfortable with.

In Five || A. Svechnikov

Author: Sydney / @sydnikov

Pairing: Andrei Svechnikov/Reader

Word Count: 6.7k

Warnings: Cursing (mild this time), sports injury (torn ACL/ligament), steamy kissing, bad proofreading, so much angst, but don’t worry there’s fluff at the end

A/N: I really tortured myself writing this. The emotions are still high, I hate the Bruins (sorry Bruins followers), and I hope you guys get all the feels as you read this. In all seriousness though, THANK YOU to whoever sent this in because it got me out of my writer’s block. (p.s. I’ve now opened requests to get me more inspired… so go submit stuff!!) anyways, I hope y’all enjoy 😁

It wasn’t bad. Not at first glance—at least that’s what you told yourself from the stands, clenching your fingers so hard they left nail indentations in the middle of your palms.

But you knew. You knew your best friend because you could read him like a book. Every twitch of the eye, a quirk of his lips, they all were a glimpse into his mind of what he was thinking. Andrei is your favorite book, and you just reached the chapter where everything starts to fall apart.

He was trying to hide it, the pain he was feeling from the quick stumble he took at center ice. It was just a small muscle pull, though, right? That’s what you thought, but then you saw him skate to the bench, favoring his right knee with the expression of one who knew he messed up.

Andrei played the rest of the game, but as you headed down to the locker room you couldn’t fight the feeling of dread steadily creeping up your heart.

“Hey,” you greeted a few of the girls leaning against the wall, waiting for their significant others to finish interviews. You were sort of an outcast in that manner, because Andrei wasn’t yours… No matter how much you wanted him to be. “Has he come out yet?” you asked.

The solemn shake of their heads gave you your answer, and you didn’t even bother trying to hide your worry when you leaned back against the wall with them, anxiously chewing your lip. The time came and went, seconds turned to minutes and minutes turned to an hour of watching the other Hurricanes players come and go—none of them the man you wanted, no needed to see.

It was times like these where you questioned how you got here, waiting on Andrei like a girlfriend but being firmly stuck in the friend zone. He had never made you feel like anything less because of it, but you felt it aching in your very bones when he’d flash a smile to the girls at the bars you frequented, or when he’d ask you whether the blue shirt or the red shirt would look better on a date with the cute girl he met at a shopping mall.

It was funny, too, because you hadn’t met him any differently than he’s met the other girls he’s taken out. It was at a bar, actually, one in downtown Raleigh not too far of a drive from PNC Arena, and you were nursing a drink with a few friends from work when the place exploded in activity because players from the Carolina Hurricanes had just arrived.

You didn’t ask “who?” like one of your coworkers asked, because you loved hockey and went to a decent amount of games, and you could confidently answer which player had which number. In one game you’d even managed to snag glass seats, and that had been the best night of your life.

Never had you actually met any of the players, though. Odd, considering you had always made it a habit to go out at least once on the weekends, but one fateful Saturday night was when you finally were able to get a good look at the players outside of their hockey uniforms. You were content to merely watch them from a distance, but soon you realized they were just like any other regular bar patrons and soon lost interest in eyeing them a few tables back.

It was as you were ordering another drink that you caught from the corner of your eyes a body settling down on your right, too close to be convenient because there were other open seats far from you. You hadn’t been looking for a hookup that night, though, so you figured playing hard-to-get might ward off any men looking for a quick one-night stand.

“Hi,” the man suddenly spoke, accent too thick to be attributed to intoxication. A foreigner? You met his eyes, your gaze colliding with warm brown that reminded you of the hot chocolate you’d buy to keep your hands warm in the winter. “Drink not up to standards?” he said, leaning against the bar counter to get a better look at you.

Your brain had short-circuited, because wow this guy was good-looking, and it only took another minute of analyzing his features with your tipsy brain to realize you were talking to Andrei Svechnikov, or rather, he was talking to you.

“Not much of a drinker to begin with.” you had replied smoothly, shocking even yourself because talking to attractive men had never been a strong suit. “What about you? What do you drink?”

You and Andrei, who had later introduced himself and to which you responded with a cheeky quirk of your lips, “I know”, had hit it off immediately. You talked for hours that night, unable to shake the undeniable chemistry you had between you until one of your friends ran into you slurring her words and stumbling in place that signaled your outing time was up.

You exchanged numbers that night, and unbeknownst to either of you, your hearts were beating in tandem for days after, and brains spiraling with ‘what ifs’ and ‘I think they like me’. Unfortunately… It had never gone beyond that, because communication was hard to begin with for Andrei without the added challenge of having to speak English, and well–past relationships have made it a little hard for you to put your trust in people.

So, here you were. Confidently able to say that Andrei was one of your closest friends who you just so happened to be in love with, but knowing it would never go beyond that. You’d rather have Andrei in your life as a friend than not at all, right?

That’s what you told yourself when you finally heard the familiar sound of Andrei’s deep voice from the locker room, coming closer and closer as the distance between you decreased.

“No, no,” Andrei said, firmly, finally making his appearance. “No hospital. I feel fine.”

“Son, you’re favoring your knee. You need to go, now.” Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour marched in right behind the left winger. “I let you wait out the rest of the game, that’s what we agreed.”

Andrei remained in place, stubbornly glaring at the older man with the two looking like raging bulls getting ready to charge the other.

“‘Drei?” you finally found the courage to speak, hesitantly stepping forward and breaking the heated glare between the two men. You didn’t even notice until now that the athletic trainer was waiting behind them, phone held to his ear. “What’s going on?”

Immediately, the Russian’s eyes whipped towards you and he stepped back from Rod immediately. He said your name in slight confusion, even embarrassment at being caught in the metaphorical pissing match between him and his coach.

“I—” he licked his lips, struggling to find the words in English. “My knee. It is… Messed up.”

“Messed up?” you said. “What do you mean?”

That’s when Rod popped in. “He took a bit of a stumble on the ice, it didn’t look too serious at first but his knee is hurting.” He turned to glare at Andrei. “He can barely stand on it.”

Andrei clenched his jaw, attempting to shift his weight onto his right knee, but he could barely manage to stand before his face twisted up in pain and he had to use the wall to balance himself.

You stepped up to the Russian, worriedly wringing your hands together before stilling them to grab your stubborn friend's arm. “You’re too stubborn for your own good,” you smiled wryly, attempting to mask your worry with a small tease.

Andrei towered over you, but his size had always made you feel safe rather than scared, and that applied to now, roo. “I am fine, darling,” he murmured the pet name in Russian, his voice matching the softness of his eyes he could never hide when looking at you. Sometimes he’d speak in his native tongue in front of you because he knew you didn’t understand, and the scowl on your face afterward always made him laugh.

But, even though he was definitely not fine, he could barely take having to bother his teammates and coaches with his issues, nonetheless you. He didn't want you to see him so weak, at least not like this.

“My knee is just stiff. Sore.” he shot a look towards Rod, who up until this moment had been staring at the wall to give the two of you privacy. “It is not that bad, I am sure of it.”

“Then you’ll go to the hospital to get it checked out since it’s ‘not that bad’.” Rod deadpanned, finally breaking the bubble of tension that always seemed to surround you and Andrei when together.

“I agree with him, Andrei,” you said, placing another hand on his arm to gain his attention. “You need to get it looked at, at the very least.”

You gave him your best puppy eyes, peering up at him as he stood over you. You could see the hesitation on his face, knowing his protesting was mostly because he hated bothering others with his problems.

“If not for your career, do it for me?” you said, attempting to bring back his smile by poking him in the chest. “Please?”

A moment of silence, you staring at Andrei and Andrei staring at you…

“—fine.”

He agreed, but his knee was not fine as he said it was. It was bad because it wasn’t actually his knee that had been causing his pain, but rather a torn ligament connected to the knee that turned out to be the ACL in his right leg.

And Andrei was devastated. You weren’t allowed to be in the room with him while they checked him out because he needed an MRI, but Martin and Seth were and it was them who came up to you in the hallway, grim looks on their faces as they broke the news. You could hear the raised voices of both Andrei and Brind’Amour shouting from the room.

You couldn’t see Andrei’s face, but you felt your heart breaking for him anyways as the doctor probably told him how long his recovery would take, the physical therapy he would need to endure, and the amount of time he wouldn’t be able to play hockey for.

“Nine months,” Andrei said, angrily typing away on his phone to his brother, Evgeny, probably. “Maybe six if I am lucky.”

You remained silent, watching him from the kitchen counter at a loss for words. You had offered to drive Andrei home, unofficially taking on the role of caretaker since Martin lived with his girlfriend and Seth was, well… Seth.

Andrei was on the couch, dressed in an old Hurricanes hoodie with shorts, his right leg propped up on a stool wrapped in a temporary cast. His face was flushed, and his hair messy from all the times he had run his hands through it. You knew he was in pain, both mentally and physically, but it really was unfair how he still managed to look so attractive all throughout.

Leg cast and all included.

“Is that what the doctor said?” you asked, finally gaining the courage to speak as you crossed the room. You carefully sat on the couch next to him, not wanting to jostle his leg.

The Russian dropped his phone on his lap, bringing a hand up to rub his eyes before gazing at you with determination. “Yes. But I’m going to be better in five.”

You finally cracked a smile, there’s the ‘Drei you knew and loved, your first one since hearing the news and bringing him back to his house. Andrei couldn’t help but grin, feeling the fondness for you in his heart grow. You were so good to him, and he wasn’t sure how he was going to keep his feelings to himself while you stayed with him.

He wouldn’t lie and say he didn’t mind having you stay with him for the rest of the year, though. Andrei was selfish, and he was also possessive, so he liked having you to himself. He considered Martin and Seth and Sebastian his good friends, his teammates, his bros if you will, but you were his. His best friend, his best girl—you were the only one he wanted, and maybe this new living situation would give him the opportunity to finally tell you.

Andrei just hoped you felt the same. He wouldn’t be able to stand losing you because he couldn’t keep his heart under control.

“Well, you know I’ll be here to help you get through it.” You stated with conviction, reaching over to give his hand a squeeze and your heart beating all the while.

You held your unspoken promise, especially on the day of his surgery a little less than a week after his prognosis. It was an early surgery on a Thursday morning, and you even called off work so you could be at the hospital with him when he woke up.

You already knew most of your friends and family were wondering why you were putting so much effort into caring for someone who was just a friend, and if you were being honest you didn’t have much of an answer to give them. They had a point after all, right?

You and Andrei were just friends. That was it. You may be in love with him (now more than ever), and you definitely omitted that little detail during past conversations, but still. Friends move in with each other to help recover from big injuries all the time.

This time with Andrei was no different, and you had to repeat this mantra over and over again in your head as the anesthesia slowly wore off and his eyes were so soft and droopy, mumbling his words and his accent was thicker than ever and your heart was beating so fast it was going to jump out of your chest–

“Thank you for being here with me,” Andrei slurred, gazing up at you with those warm, half-lidded eyes.

You grabbed his hand, gently, lacing your fingers together and squeezing once. “There’s nowhere I’d rather be.”

Andrei squeezed back once before losing consciousness, his eyes closing and his head lolling back against the pillow. “That’s normal, right?” You asked the nurse, who was busy writing on a clipboard. She only had to look up once to take in the situation before responding.

“Everyone responds to anesthesia differently. Your boyfriend is just one of many who has to sleep it off.”

You felt your stomach drop, your eyes widening only slightly at the nurse’s casual use of ‘boyfriend’. Of course, that’s what you and your best friend must have looked like to her, right? You, holding Andrei’s hand, and he gazing up at you like you hung the stars and the moon.

It was probably just the drugs in his system. Definitely.

Andrei was cleared to leave the hospital the next day, and you heard the news from the group chat you, Martin, and Seth were in. It was comically titled, ‘Andrei’s bobble-leg’, courtesy of Seth, of course, and it was essentially just the three of you coordinating who has Andrei duty on the days you weren’t able to be with him.

Unfortunately, the day he was able to go home was the day you had to be back at work, so Martin and Seth left their morning skate early to drive him home. And so, here you were now, finally off from work and driving down Capital Blvd road to Andrei’s home.

Martin, Seth, and surprisingly quite a few of the players were already there when you arrived. You knocked on the front door before letting yourself in, curiosity written all over your face as you walked closer to all the noise.

Happy shouts of your name rang across the room when you appeared in the doorway, and your face flushed red in embarrassment at all the eyes suddenly upon you. “Hey guys,” you said, eyes scanning around the room looking for the only man you really cared about.

Finally, you found him. Andrei was seated on his couch, leg safely propped up on the ottoman and wrapped in tight bandages and a brace. He had an Xbox controller in his hand, the video game he was previously playing on pause.

“How was work?” Sebastian asked from the right of Andrei, also holding a controller. There were several bags of chips laid out across the ottoman, and both men were currently snacking.

It was probably against their diet, but you weren’t going to be the one to tell them that, especially Andrei.

“Work,” you finally responded, rather dry. Most of the population, including you, unfortunately, were not lucky enough to play the sport they loved as their job.

A few chuckles and about an hour later, everyone began packing up to leave. Somehow, you had gravitated toward Andrei during this time of catching up with his teammates and ended up on the couch next to him, on his left. His arm was casually strewn across the back of the couch, fingertips playing with the ends of your hair and occasionally brushing against your neck, sending shivers up your spine.

You liked to pretend it was just you harboring feelings for him sometimes because it was less scary, but every day that fantasy was getting harder and harder to live… Especially when you would turn your head to catch a peek at his side profile, and he was already staring as if knowing the effect he had on you.

“How’s your leg feeling?” You asked once you heard the front door shut, signaling the exit of the last guest. It was silent other than the TV playing softly in the background, it having changed from Call of Duty to a rerun of Friends some time ago.

Andrei sighed, attempting to hide his emotional turmoil with a smile. Bringing his arm down from the back of the couch, he tentatively rested it on your shoulders, gauging your reaction before bringing you to his side. He’s been an affectionate person since you first met him, so you were used to the random hand-holding or hugs, but it still never failed to make you long for something more.

He patted his leg gently, careful not to disturb it from where it rested. “Hurts. But that is to be expected, no?”

“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean it can’t suck.” You said, your voice nothing more than a murmur. You rested your head against his shoulder, tugging at a loose string on one of your sleeves.

The hockey player didn’t respond, instead, he placed one of his big hands on your shoulder and squeezed, a sign he at least heard your attempt at reassurance. Time passed quickly like this; Friends continued playing, as did your position tucked into Andrei’s side.

You felt at peace, and while he didn’t say it with words you could tell the Russian beside you felt the same. Hopefully, the next few months of healing will just fly by.

And they did, at first. But even though the Carolina Hurricanes were missing one of their star players, the games must go on. His teammates went out on the ice, each and every one of them feeling Andrei’s absence keenly.

You felt it too, as the Boston Bruins scored their fourth and final goal of the night, winning the game in a shootout. The hope immediately dissipated within your chest and in rose frustration and disappointment to take its place, but you were sure that was nothing compared to what Andrei was feeling beside you.

The entirety of the game, your hand was wrapped in Andrei’s, his squeezing down when the Bruins scored their first goals in regulation and releasing to clap when we were finally able to tip the puck in. Then the team came back in the third period—you weren’t sure what Brind’Amour had said to the boys during the second intermission, but whatever he said had worked.

The Hurricanes had been controlling the puck in the Bruins’ zone, something they had failed to do in the first two periods. They were passing, aiming, shooting, scoring, first by Skjei in the corner of the net and then by Aho on a tight pass from Martinook that slipped right past Swayman’s shoulder.

It was looking so good because Andersen had finally gotten his head in the game and the defense had stepped up, but then we went past overtime scoreless, and then to the fateful shootout.

You had felt the anxiousness from every fan in the arena. If anyone was an avid Hurricanes watcher, including you, they knew shootouts had never been this hockey team’s strong suit.

Andrei’s frustration was palpable next to you. His left leg was bouncing up and down for the entirety, and you could see the muscles tensing and untensing in his right leg as if he had wanted to move. It only got worse when Brind’Amour sent Burns out first, something that had you, Andrei, and every single Hurricanes fan in the arena watching on in confusion.

“No, no,” you had heard the Russian mutter from next to you. “Why is he sending Brent? He needs to send Fishy, or Turbo—” the words then died in his mouth as Brent missed as everyone knew would happen, and sadly Teuvo, who went out next, did too.

Unfortunately for us, the Bruins had good goal-scorers. Coyle had slipped the puck past Andersen, as did DeBrusk, and then it was done. Game over. Just like that.

You finally turned to face the man next to you just as his head fell into his hands, tugging at his hair and messing up the gel you forced him to put on because no, Andrei, you can’t show up with bedhead. He was muttering words you couldn’t understand, most likely the creative Russian curses you heard him say on occasion.

If this game had been hard to watch for you, you couldn’t even begin to imagine how Andrei was feeling.

“‘Drei,” you said, tentatively. “Are you—”

“No. Don’t.” He snapped, rubbing at his eyes before unsteadily rising to stand. His right leg shook, but he refused the arm you held out and didn’t dare to look in your eyes to see what look they held. As he tried to reach for his crutches, his leg buckled from underneath him, and this time you ignored the hurt of him lashing out to put your arms around his back to steady him.

“Can we— Is it okay if…” he struggled to speak, his accent thick with emotion as he struggled to find the words. Andrei had never been good at communicating when upset, literally, because everything always came to him in Russian naturally, and this time was no different. “Leave? Can we leave?”

“What about—”

“No. No team. No reporters.” he said, digging his fingers into the back of his jersey you were wearing.

You softened, gently maneuvering your body so you could face him better. Now you were chest-to-chest, your arms still wrapped around his midsection to keep him steady. “What do you want then, Andrei?”

“Home,” he murmured. “Home. With you.” he wasn’t able to convey it right at this moment, but his heart was pounding as he said the words. To him, to anyone in his culture, this was the closest he could come to expressing his love without outright saying it.

He found he wasn’t scared about finally admitting this out loud, either, because you were his home. Everything about you was home because he wouldn’t dare let anyone else except his brother and mama see him so vulnerable.

Of course, you were oblivious. He normally found it cute, but right now he wanted to shake you because all he wanted right now was to hold you in his arms and kiss you as he found comfort in your presence.

“Okay,” you finally whispered, the double meaning of his words flying right over your head. But something emboldened you, gave you the courage to raise your hands to his shoulders so you could reach up and press a gentle kiss to his cheek, right next to the corner of his lips.

“Let’s go home, ‘kay?”

The ride home was silent, comforting even despite the rough loss the team took. By the time you finally managed to get to the car, the two of you were struggling to keep your eyes open and also keep your hands off each other. Andrei tangling your hands together, you gently leaning against his side…

It was all surface-level, neither wanting to speak the words out loud but yet not wanting to sacrifice the innocent, physical intimacy you found with each other. This was all racing through your mind the closer you got to Andrei’s house, and you were almost positive he was thinking the same.

Andrei, in fact, was actually contemplating the one-hundred different ways he was going to kiss you, if he ever gets to that stage with you. He was currently facing the window but left enough room at the corner of his eyes to take little peeks at you, only fuelling his determination to do something about the tension between you.

And, yeah, maybe he was hyperfixating on you to distract him from the fact his team lost and if he was down on the ice he knew he would have been able to fix it, been able to score. His emotions had skyrocketed since the game ended, and everything felt so much more intense than usual.

Maybe that was just the pain medication he was on, though…

After you finally arrived at Andrei’s house, it took a little bit over an hour to finally get yourselves ready for bed. The problem? Neither of you were ready for any sort of sleeping, and you both knew it.

Currently, Andrei was leaning back into the couch, his right leg once again propped up on the ottoman and a blanket haphazardly thrown over his lap. You were next to him, legs comfortably tucked underneath you with a few inches of space left between you and Andrei.

There was half a family-sized bag of Doritos in between you that he said was in his pantry, so you were both currently snacking on them while watching the NHL channel. It was quiet other than for the TV, for neither of you were speaking a word for fear of breaking the thick silence between you.

The tension was so thick you could have cut it with a knife, and what made it even worse is that you didn’t think Andrei even noticed. He was wrapped up in his phone, most likely watching the game recap because his face was twisted up and his whole body seemed tense.

You shoved another Dorito in your mouth. Fuck. You were so, so screwed. You needed to get it together before you said something you regretted, especially since you had temporarily become his roommate.

Finally, you couldn’t take it anymore and spoke. “Andrei?” you said, hesitantly looking towards him.

“What?” he responded after a moment, not taking his eyes away from his phone.

Now you felt uncomfortable. Before, in the arena, he was looking at you like he loved you, but now he was snappy and tense and worse than normal because his team lost without him being able to play.

Picking at the skin around your nails, you attempted scooting down the couch before just giving up and moving to stand. “Nevermind,” you said with a mutter, feeling withdrawn and defeated. If he didn’t want to open up to you, fine, but you didn’t deserve to have him take out his frustration on you.

At least, not like this.

Andrei didn’t even respond, furthering your feelings of bitterness towards the man you had so many feelings for. Wrapping your hands in the long sleeves of his hoodie you were still wearing, you shuffled down the hallway and into the guest room you claimed as your own.

You could still hear the TV playing in the background, but that was the only sound in the otherwise silent house. You blinked the frustration from your eyes and crawled underneath the bed sheets, scrolling on your phone until you fell into a dreamless sleep.

Hours passed of restless tossing and turning, and then suddenly it was three in the morning and you were being woken up by countless knocks on your door.

“The fuck?” you muttered sleepily, crawling out of the cocoon of blankets you were in to answer your door. For whatever reason, your sleep-addled brain wasn’t able to comprehend that it was probably Andrei on the other side. “Andrei?” you said, confused as the Russian leaned against the wall.

He looked rather sheepish, slightly embarrassed. His hair was ruffled, and the TV was still playing so he probably fell asleep on the couch.

“Oh, shit,” you said, suddenly realizing that he was probably here because he needed help. Of course. That was all it was. “I’m such an idiot, sorry,” you breathed, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes as you stepped out of the room. “C’mon, I’ll help you get in bed.”

Andrei stopped you with a hand, opening and closing his mouth as he struggled to find words. “No, that is not it.” he finally settled on.

Okay, now you were curious. “Huh?”

“I am sorry.”

What?

“For what?” You asked, staring up at him wide-eyed. You were honestly too tired for a heavy conversation like this so you were struggling to keep up.

Andrei swallowed the lump in his throat. His leg was currently throbbing, but it was nothing compared to the throbbing in his heart as he looked at you. Your hair was all over the place in the most endearing way, and your eyes were droopy in a way that told him you were just sleeping.

“For not treating you right, for—” He cut himself off, sighing in frustration. Why was English so complicated? If only you understood English. “English is stupid.” he muttered, then released a big sigh and steeled his resolve.

Stepping closer, he brought the two of you chest-to-chest and brought his arms to cage you against the wall.

And you, you meanwhile, let out the most embarrassing noise possible when he suddenly got close, and then Andrei was everywhere and nowhere all at once. His body was trapping you in, and while your senses were on overdrive you strangely enough didn't feel like fleeing.

“Andrei?” You squeaked, sinking further into the wall if it was possible. Your eyes dropped, finding the center of his chest to firmly set your gaze. His eyes were so dark, intimidating, and swimming with an intention you were nervous to find out. “What are you doing?”

“Look at me, please?” A large hand smoothed against your skin, gently tilting your head up. Your eyes automatically locked with his, and the emotion on his face had you gasping. “There’s my girl,” He said.

Okay, yeah, your body was frozen, the breath leaving your lungs in a torrent of sharp breaths. This… This was new territory, for the both of you, and you couldn’t help but wonder how Andrei looked so calm while you looked like a startled deer—an unattractive one, at that.

He started speaking, heart thundering while the words poured from his throat like warm, melted butter. “I’m in love with you. You are my person, I knew from the very first moment I saw you in that bar so many months ago. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, but tonight, having you next to me… You’ve always been next to me, and I’ve taken advantage of that. Darling, I want to make up for all the times I never kissed you senseless, and I want nothing more than to have you as mine, and I yours.”

Your favorite music, your favorite voice, words so filled with emotion and yet you couldn’t even understand him as he looked at you like you were his sun, and he a plant desperately seeking your warmth. Andrei had only spoken in Russian a handful of times in front of you – most being curses or quips exchanged with Pyotr – and never had he spoken so much of it.

You’d always thought Russian was rather harsh. The sharp whistles, clicks of the tongue, hissing of certain words; you admired anyone who could speak it, but it had never been an easy language to listen to you. But, when Andrei spoke Russian… It was soft, almost musical, and expressive to the point you felt like you could understand the very subject at hand if you thought about it. Maybe you were just biased, but you swore you fell more in love with him every time he spoke it.

“No words?” he said, a grin on his face that made you realize you’d maybe been silent for a little too long.

You opened your mouth to speak, but nothing came out. You were breathless— literally.

“I show you, then, what I said,” Andrei brushed his fingers against the side of your neck, almost fully grasping it as he gently brought you closer. You had no complaints, though. “Yes?”

He said your name again, looking at you with those warm eyes so full of depth they hypnotized you and had you nodding yes, almost instinctively.

Andrei sucked in a breath, tightening his grip on you only slightly as he slid his hand around the back of your head. Your lips were slightly parted, shiny and red from where you’d been biting them previously, and that cupid’s bow that always drove him crazy when you smiled was quirked upwards as if it was asking him to kiss you.

He waited a moment, stared into your eyes, his fingers merely a whisper of a touch against your cheek, and finally took the leap. The first touch of his lips was shy, testing, but then you whimpered with need and tugged at his shirt to bring him closer and Andrei had an internal moment of fuck it where he realized just how crazy he was for you. Pressing you into the wall, he nipped at your bottom lip and was granted entrance with a gasp drowned out by the sound of his own groan. He put every ounce of his passion and love and relief into this kiss as if trying to convince you to stay because this, this here? It was worth it—you were worth it. Fireworks, electricity, butterflies, and everything all at once was igniting in your gut and caused you to let out a pathetic whimper the moment your lips finally detached. He was clearly skilled at this, wholeheartedly controlling the moment as his lips left a trail of kisses down your neck, nipping at the skin that met your collarbone.

“‘Drei,” you gasped, clutching the hair right at his scalp – when did you move your arms around his neck? – as he sucked a mark under your jaw. “Hm?” he hummed, not stopping with his ministrations.

“What,” you said, throat dry and raspy as you tried to speak over the sound of your beating heart. “What did you say— oh,”

Andrei’s grin was almost feral as he drew the beautiful sound from your lips. “Found it,” he said, voice full of pride as he brushed his fingers against the newly-found sweet spot on your neck.

Finally, you couldn’t take it anymore and grabbed his head in between your hands, bringing his head to yours so you could press a quick, affectionate kiss to his lips before pulling back to gather your thoughts because you had a lot of them.

Andrei pouted the moment you pulled him away but respected your boundaries and merely rested his hands on your waist to keep you close. He said your name gently, his tone bordering on questioning. “Did I… Did I push too far?” he said.

“No, no, not at all,” you rushed to correct him, already having caught the guilt in his eyes. “I just want to know what you said earlier, before you— you know.” It felt almost taboo to say ‘before you kissed the life out of me’, not wanting to break this delicate balance you found yourself in.

The Russian hummed, already catching on to your bashfulness and deciding to tease you for it. “No, darling, I think you need to remind me,” he brought a hand up to loosely wrap around your neck, the contact keeping you grounded. “On what I did before what?”

“Andrei,” you said, immediately dropping eye contact as your face flushed red. “You’re being a tease,” you muttered.

He dipped his head, brushing your lips together as he spoke. You felt his breath against your skin and had the sudden desire to taste him again. “I can do this all night, but the question is can you?”

You gave up at that because the moment he spoke he drew back and you couldn’t stand the feeling of not having him close to you anymore. “Andrei,” you sucked in a breath. “What did you say before you kissed me? In Russian?”

“I love you,” Andrei didn’t miss a beat as he crept his other hand farther up your waist. “That is mostly what I said. And more.”

“More?” you squeaked out as he drew closer.

The hockey player hummed, then suddenly stepped back and grabbed your hand. “Much more,” he confirmed. “Now—bed?” Short, sweet, and to the point Andrei always was…

Just one of the many things you loved about him.

Twenty minutes later you lay in Andrei’s bed, swallowed in another one of his shirts, and curled into his chest. His arm was wrapped around your waist, stroking gentle circles into the skin exposed to the room. It was silent, null except for the steady hum of the air conditioning and the gentle breathing of two humans reveling in each other’s presence.

“I miss it,” he said, suddenly speaking up. You lifted your head only slightly from his chest, already missing the sound of his heartbeat lulling you to sleep. “Hockey. And I miss playing with my brothers.”

Brothers. Your heart broke at hearing the longing in his voice, because every single player on the team he played with was his family, in one way or another, and now he was being forced to watch them play the sport he had no chance of helping them win.

You couldn’t even begin to imagine the pain he was feeling.

“I know, Andrei,” was what you finally settled on. Your voice was soft, gentle, trying to convey your understanding with actions rather than words. You drew tiny circles on his chest, taking pride in the way goosebumps rose in your fingers’ wake. “I know.”

He tightened his grip on you, holding you closer to him as if he were afraid you’d disappear. “Will you be here?” he suddenly asked, frowning. Andrei knew he was being slightly irrational, feeling so vulnerable, but he really hadn’t felt secure in himself since first tearing his ACL.

What was his purpose in life, really, if not to play hockey and have you with him?

You hadn’t yet spoken, so he quickly clarified. “In the morning. And all the mornings after.”

A smile broke across your face as you buried your head into his chest. You felt the rumble of his chest as he chuckled, and then he shifted to where you were laying on top of his chest so he could see your face. “All the mornings, huh?” you asked, feeling bashful.

Andrei grinned, his tongue poking out from behind his teeth, knowing the effect he had on you. “Every one,” he replied. “If you will have me.”

“There’s nothing I want more.”

And you meant it, truly, with every fiber of your being. The next months were going to be rough, the ones where you’d have to be there for Andrei as he watched his team ultimately compete and fall through in the playoffs especially.

But you knew the two of you could do it. Andrei was nothing if not committed, even through all the arguments, tears, and emotional breakdowns, you were there for each other through the long haul.

And Andrei, meanwhile, after many difficult months down the road, had the biggest smile on his face as the doctors told him it was a miracle.

Because he had healed from his ACL injury in five.

fin

A/N: Before my medical professionals come at me, YES I KNOW acl injuries take up to a year to recover from almost all of the time, but for the sake of this fic just pls ignore that little fact 😭 in all seriousness though, I can’t wait till our favorite Russian gets to play again bc I miss him sm. As always, please leave likes, reblogs, and comments. Ily all <33

────────────────────────────────

Taglist: @ballsakic @bbbbruins @bbnhlqueen7 @kapriz0v @iwantahockeyhimbo @sebbyaho @girlmeetsamerics @heatherawoowoo @matsbarzal @carter91 @leafs-forever @teuvomakesmesmile @canadian-girl87 @hockeypuckedmeup @typical-simplelove @calgarycanuck @diary-of-jj @grittysbattinggloves @stars-canucks @nachodaze @besthockeyfics @sidcrosbyspuck @svechslvr @ilyasorokinn @ssebastianaho @drei-mrssvechii @nicohischierz @insomniren @kpopkenners @canesqueen @the-jarvy-party @martynecass @yagetintoit @natzp03

Add yourself to my 18- (SFW) Taglist here!

Add yourself to my 18+ (NSFW) Taglist here!

1K notes · View notes

rowdyslove · 8 months

Text

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐑𝐘. | quinn hughes

꒰ pairing: quinn hughes x genderneutral!reader

꒰ genre: angst + fluff ;exes!au, exes to lovers trope | short oneshot

꒰ synopsis: after four years, going back to the hughes lake house for the summer brings back many emotions & memories from the past—especially the memories of you and your ex-boyfriend.

꒰ word count: 2.4k

꒰ author’s note: i just love the idea of ex lovers reuniting and giving each other a second chance :((( i think it’s so sweet, so this one i’m kind of very proud of :D

the time was around 3:00am, and as no surprise to you, you couldn’t sleep at all.

maybe it could have been because of the immense amount of happiness you were feeling due to it being your first night back at the hughes lake house for the summer with all your best friends.

this day had been your first day back with everyone since the incident that occured with one particular boy from the group four years ago.

and you thought you would’ve been completely fine, spending the whole summer back here just like you used to. everything should’ve been okay—except for the fact that the particular boy from four years ago, being the oldest of the hughes brothers, was now your ex-boyfriend and was very present in the house.

you honestly should’ve been able to move on from the boy by now. that’s why you decided to come back to the lake house. it’s been an entire four years, but you still found your mind clouding over with memories of you and quinn all the time.

you saw him almost everywhere you looked. always seeing him on the tv, either in a game of hockey against one of the many other teams or doing an interview for sports channels. you felt like there was just no escaping him no matter how hard you tried.

the cool breeze from the wind and the serene still-state of the lake was just enough to calm your mind-racing thoughts for the time being.

the moon had taken it’s bright spot over the sky, stars littering all around it, offering you bits of company as you sat on the dock by yourself. the sounds of water lapping against the bottom of the hughes family boat was the only thing you could hear. the air bouncing off of the lake comes cooler and the light gusts of wind leave goosebumps trailing down your arms. your breathing was smooth and stable, smelling the burning scent of the campfire that was still floating through the air, even after it had been put out.

the slightest sound of soft whispers being carried through the wind hits your ears, almost as if the sky was asking how you were doing; asking if you were okay as if the moon and stars could feel the sharp pains coursing within your heart.

you wanted to be honest, saying that you haven’t been okay for a while now. saying that you missed the way that the stars had painted the sky so brightly the night that quinn had kissed you for the first time on the very same dock those many years ago.

everything about this place just reminded you of him all over again.

through nights quite similar to this one, quinn would’ve been holding you safely in his arms, pressing the sweetest of kisses on your lips in the late hours you would spend together by the lake after sneaking away from the commotions happening in the lake house. he would give you all the comfort you needed, but now you sit there feeling nothing but hurt.

and it feels like the sky is judging you for staying hung up on the same boy you had left behind. but how could you not still be so enamoured with him when there was always love swimming in his eyes whenever he looked at you.

as if the moon could hear your thoughts, quiet footsteps can be heard coming from behind you. the slight creaking of the dock contrasting with the small waves beneath you. you think that you must just be seeing things as you look over your shoulder, watching the dark silhouette draw closer to you and it becomes more and more clear that it is quinn.

even through the fact that you could barely see from the darkness of the night, you feel your chest tightening from the way his hazel-like eyes are so easy to recognize, even in the darkest of hours. you couldn’t move, your body still as he sits down beside you, bringing his knees up and resting his forearms on them.

“look, i just came here to relax. we don’t have to talk or anythi–”

“i couldn’t sleep.” is all he says.

however, he doesn’t tell you that the reason for his sleepless night was because his mind was full of thoughts of you. the thoughts of the many times he had tried to reach out to you after you left him. the amount of unanswered calls and the unreturned efforts you made to come see him when he came home to michigan after being in vancouver.

he was reminded of the times he kept chasing after the love he probably should’ve just left alone.

he heaves intense breaths by you on the dock, everything around him seemingly blurring deep into the background the very moment he finally lets his eyes land on you. looking at you even though he can feel the fear building in his chest of breaking down right there next to you. you don’t catch onto the way his gaze stills on you as you keep your sight on the lake in front of you.

the last time he looked at you through blurry vision and unrequited stares was four years ago. he couldn’t be blamed for thinking that the sight of you right there next to him just like those times so long ago could be a simple figment of his imagination.

“i guess your love for the lake is still there, huh?”

quinn feels almost relieved at the thought of constancy from you. he couldn’t explain the strong emotions that were running through his veins at the fact that he still knew you so well, even after all this time being away from you.

sure, you might’ve been walking with a new kind of confidence around you, and the things you liked may not have been the exact same. but your love for the lake was still there. you still wore your hair up in messy ponytails the way you used to, and you still had the same liking for the kind of comfortably styled clothing.

the love of his life was still the same.

“are you okay?”

he loses himself in your words, and he’s not sure if it’s just the way you had said it, or if it was how genuine your voice sounded as you asked him. but something about the way you looked at him, with the softest gaze he’s ever seen, gives him the courage to answer you.

it’s a question he had heard plenty of times now. from his brothers, his teammates—pretty much everyone around him has asked him the same exact thing. it was a question he could never really answer properly, and even now, he still doesn’t know how to answer it.

but he tries his best to give an answer to you, even if it’s not the most accurate.

quinn couldn’t tell you just how much he was hurting still from losing you. it would be a lie if he said he had not been wondering for the past four years if things could have been easier with you still by his side. it would be another lie if he also said he didn’t feel his heart pounding and butterflies fluttering in his chest the moment he saw you walk in the door of the lake house earlier that day.

“i’ll be okay,” his answer was surprisingly honest. the most honest he could be in the moment.

quinn knew that he would be okay as time passed. and you hummed in agreement quietly to his words, bringing your legs up to hug them against your chest, chin resting gently upon them as the slow breeze continues to blow past the two of you.

“why didn’t you fight harder for us?”

his question caught you off guard, but it was a question you knew you always had the answer to. but the look he gives you seemed like he was not expecting a proper answer; he was just looking for closure. anything he could get in explanation for why you had ended your relationship the way you did.

“i didn’t want to get in the way of your dream.” your answer was something you had memorized in the back of your mind. but you never thought you would ever have to voice it right to him. even then after hearing it from you, he still didn’t seem satisfied with your answer.

“you were apart of that dream though. i wanted you by my side through everything.” the breaks in his voice didn’t do anything to disguise the pain he was obviously feeling.

“i didn’t want you to have to eventually choose between being in the nhl or staying behind with me. i knew what you wanted, and staying with you through it just seemed too difficult at the time.” your voice was more silent, more of a whisper. but quinn felt like he needed it shouted loud and clear at him.

“i never said that it would be easy for us. but i did know that if we tried, we would’ve been able to make it through. you could’ve waited.”

“you were leaving for vancouver that night. i didn’t know exactly when you were coming back, or if we’d even be the same while you were away in a whole different country.” you thought that quinn had let out all he had to say, but you werent prepared for the large pain you would be feeling in your heart at what he said next.

“you know, i was going to ask you to marry me.”

the thought that you had let marriage with quinn slip away just as quickly as you did with your relationship was enough to absolutely break you. especially when he was looking at you, tears shedding down his cheeks he didn’t even know had formed in the first place. the cracks in his voice broke through the peace that the cool breeze was bringing to the both of you.

“i’m so sorry.”

you were aware of everything that you were letting go of that night you walked out on him, and a sob itches at the back of your throat for the life you could’ve had with quinn.

noticing the large set of tears now escaping from your eyes, quinn is quick to pull you into his hold, hands finding the familiar spots on your back that he knew were quick to calm you down.

“i didn’t mean to end things for us the way i did.” the words he heard leave you were heartbreaking. you sounded so defeated.

“i didn’t think we would end like that either. i thought we would never end. i thought that we could get through anything, and be by each other’s side through anything life had in store for us.”

your shoulders felt like they had a large weight on them, physically able to drag you down to the deep depths of the water. it pained you to know how willing he was to make things work with you even through the time that seemed to be the hardest.

“shh, it’s okay.” he hushed down your sobs, pulling from you and holding your cheeks in his palms, using his thumbs to wipe away the tears that refused to stop running down your soft skin.

“i want you to know.. i’m proud of you. for all that you’ve accomplished, you know. i’m so proud of you for reaching your dream.”

it’s the first time you’ve said the words out loud, and it truly felt so good to finally be able to tell him just how proud you were of him, especially with how much time and effort he had put into his passion.

that was your first time smiling that night, even thought it was paired with the messy tears splayed across your cheeks and red puffy eyes , he smiled right back at you. quinn was glad to hear that, even if it wasn’t very direct, your heart still thinks of him always. and then he’s left to wonder if you ever notice the way he kisses the chain you had gifted him on your first year anniversary everytime before he goes on the ice. without ever forgetting, his lips always make contact with the silver, reminding him of one of the dearest people that had stuck with him through all of the cruel training and would take care of him when he ended up overworking himself.

the feeling of having you so close and the sight of the gentle smile on your lips was something quinn never wanted to leave. “i wish we could just start over. but maybe the universe just doesn’t work like that for us..”

“but what if we could try again? what if this time there was no end?”

you notice how his eyes travel between both of yours, then to your lips, and then back to your eyes once more. and the sight of his quivering lips, really the most vulnerable you’ve ever seen the man, has you sucking in a deep breath.

“do you really think we’d be able to make it?”

the hard thumping of your heart grows louder and louder through your ears when he starts leaning in, and you can feel the world around you darkening. the only sight visible being the man sitting right in front of you, and when his forehead lands on yours, you were convinced that you no longer knew how to breathe. “i think we’re worth another try.”

when his hands find their place on your cheeks for the second time that night, this time your eyes flutter closed and you allow your lips to meet his in a slow kiss that you didn’t even know you were yearning for all this time until you actually felt it. it was slow, deep, passionate; every possible emotion was being expressed through the way the two of you kissed each other. your touches clouding your minds until all you can feel is one another. not even the cool breeze in the starry night could be felt anymore.

memories coming back to mind of the same night you shared your first kiss, on the same lake, under the same amount of endless stars, with the same man you loved so long ago. however this time, the both of you are a bit more grown than before.

and now, there is a new memory, where the hope for the two of you is brought back, and the love you once felt so deeply gets to have a second chance.

#—ness writes #quinn hughes #quinn hughes x reader #quinn hughes fluff #quinn hughes imagine #quinn hughes x y/n #quinn hughes angst #quinn hughes oneshot #vancover canucks #nhl fic #nhl oneshot #nhl imagine #nhl x reader #nhl fluff #nhl angst #nhl x y/n

346 notes · View notes

doc-pickles · 5 months

Text

waking up in vegas | matthew tkachuk x hughes!sister (pt. 7)

series masterlist

summary: you work through some doubts before Matthew comes home from his road trip

warnings: none :)

a/n: i knooooooow you all wanted smut in this chapter and I promise you’ll get more but not today. I hope you enjoy!!

xoxo

nina

You’re in overthinking mode.

It’s been nine days since your first phone call with Matthew. And every night since then you’d both enjoyed your nightly phone calls a little more than usual. The way his voice is able to bring you to orgasm is driving you insane and you can’t wait for him to be home tomorrow.

And that’s where the overthinking comes in.

If you and Matthew hook up (which you most definitely will) what does that mean for your relationship? Sure you’re married and having a baby and living together but… All of those things seem separate rather than conjoined as they would be for a couple.

Yes, you’re married but it was an accident that you were still trying to correct.

Yes, you’re having a baby but it’s the product of a lot of tequila and bad choices.

Yes, you’re living together but it’s only because of said baby.

If you sleep together again, will it complicate your… whatever you had with Matthew? You don’t think it can constitute as a relationship, but just calling it a friendship seems like a disservice. You and Matthew had a long history together that would now be intertwined forever with your child. And even though you didn’t know what that would lead to you were excited to see where the two of you ended.

“We have plenty of time to worry before Daddy comes home tomorrow,” you smile down at your baby bump. It seems to have popped out lately plus with the way the baby had been kicking you nonstop it was hard to ignore the little one growing beneath your skin.

To keep yourself occupied you clean the house for the first half of the day before you decide to make cookies. They’re a chocolate and peanut butter recipe that Matthew used to beg you to make during the summers when your families would be at the lake house together. More than once the two of you had snuck out to eat a plate of them on the back porch together.

The smell of the cookies brought back some of your favorite memories of your youth with Matthew and all your siblings. Hockey games, late night ice cream runs, lake house shenanigans, countless holidays, and shared vacations all flash in your mind as you stand in the kitchen scrubbing dishes. Your situation wasn’t ideal, being pregnant and married to someone you weren’t really in a relationship with. But you realize with a start that you love Matthew, you have for years. And while that love might not be romantic, you knew it would be more than enough to carry your unconventional little family through whatever came your way.

You’ve just pulled the cookies out of the oven when you hear the security alarm beep before the front door opens. You check the time with a frown. It’s a little after 6 PM and Matthew isn’t due home until early tomorrow. It couldn’t be him coming into the house, but you weren’t sure who else it could be.

And then you hear him call out your name.

“Baby, where are you?” Matthew calls out from the front room. His voice is laced with a level of need and desperation that you feel deep in your soul too.

You round the corner, freezing as you see Matthew standing in the entryway. It only takes a second of the two of you staring at each other before he’s sporting a wide smile. Overcome with emotion you waste no time in covering the few feet between you and launching yourself into Matthew’s arms.

“I missed you so much,” you manage to say as his hands caress your back. “I thought you were back tomorrow?”

Pulling back you meet Matthew’s eyes, noticing the wide grin on his face, “I caught an earlier flight. I couldn’t stay away any longer.”

Every negative thought and worry you’d had earlier in the day slips from your mind as Matthew holds you. Without a doubt you know that no matter what happens between the two of you that he’d never let you down. The boy who’d begged you for cookies and the man who caught an early flight just to hold you a few hours earlier would never hurt you.

You lean into Matthew’s gentle touch, brushing your lips against his as you share a soft and gentle kiss that melts all your worries away. When you pull apart he’s wearing that little smirk you love so much, holding you close to his body as if you’ll slip away if he doesn’t hold tight enough, “Matty I’m not going anywhere, you don’t have to hold me so tight.”

“I’m worried if I let go this will all be a dream and I’ll wake up in a hotel room lonely and missing you all over again,” he mutters against your neck. “Please tell me this is real, that I’m not imagining things here baby.”

You lean back a little bit to meet Matthew’s eyes, “It’s real. So fucking real. I’m here Matty, right in front of you and I’m not leaving.”

The two of you get lost in another kiss, simply holding each other and being content with each others presence. When you finally pull back Matthew furrows his brows, “Did you bake something?”

“I made my chocolate peanut butter cookies,” you laugh as Matthew releases his hold on you to bolt toward the kitchen. When you follow him he already has a cookie in his mouth, a delighted groan leaving his lips. “Good?”

“If I wasn’t already married to you I would propose right now,” Matthew moans out as he takes another bite. “And they’re still warm? Fucking hell woman.”

A deep laugh bubbles out of you as Matthew finishes his cookie and wraps you in his arms again. This time his hand comes down to cup your ever growing bump, “How’s Baby T?”

“Kicking me all the damn time,” you huff. As if to prove a point the baby kicks against Matthew’s hand. “Must get that from you.”

Matthew laughs and kisses you again, this time squeezing you tightly as he holds you close. He pulls back with a smirk and you can’t help the blush that instantly covers your cheeks.

“Why’re you blushing baby,” Matthew runs his fingers across your darkened cheeks. “You miss me?”

“So much,” you breathe out as you lean towards each other, foreheads touching. “Matty?”

“Mhmm?”

“Take me to bed.”

#matthew tkachuk #matthew tkachuk fic #matthew tkachuk fanfic #matthew tkachuk imagine #nhl fanfic #nhl fic #nhl imagine #hockey fic #hockey fanfic #hockey imagine #nina writes

168 notes · View notes

heartsandhischier · 26 days

Text

Breaking the ice

andrei svechnikov x female!reader

summary - 1.2k words. Y/N and Andrei are about to make their first public appearance of their faux relationship part 2 of The Pretend Play

author's note - omd I've already outlined this series to a 10 part series... getting a bit too caught up in this Russian man

warnings - none i think

It was the night of Andrei’s crucial playoff game. The chilly evening air did nothing to cool the simmering tension between Andrei and Y/N as they made their way to the bustling arena. It was their first public outing together since the arranging of their faux relationship. Y/N, despite her visible discomfort, wore Andrei's jersey, the number 37 standing out boldly against the fabric, a symbol of her reluctant role in this charade.

In the car, the atmosphere had been thick with their mutual resentment, their conversation peppered with barbed comments and thinly veiled annoyance. "So, how many hours of my life am I sacrificing to the gods of ice tonight?" Y/N had asked with a heavy dose of sarcasm, her eyes rolling so hard Andrei thought they might get stuck that way.

"Hockey games have three periods, each 20 minutes long, but with breaks and potential overtime, who knows? Could be your whole night," Andrei replied dryly, his focus on the road but his mind racing with the implications of their public debut.

"And it's going to be cold, right? I mean, it's an ice rink. Couldn't you play a sport in a more comfortable climate?" Y/N continued, her complaints a verbal manifestation of her reluctance to be part of this spectacle.

"It's not the Arctic, Y/N. You'll survive. Besides, you're wearing my jersey. Consider it a... personal heater," Andrei shot back, the corner of his mouth twitching in what could have been the start of a smile under different circumstances. "You might actually enjoy it if you stopped complaining for a minute."

Y/N huffed, crossing her arms over the jersey that draped loosely over her frame. "Oh, please, like I'm really going to understand anything that's happening. I just don't get why I have to be there if I don't even follow the sport."

"Because you're supposed to be 'the supportive girlfriend,'" Andrei said, emphasizing the last two words with air quotes, his eyes briefly meeting hers before returning to the road.

The bickering had ebbed as they neared the arena, replaced by a tense silence that spoke volumes of their current state of affairs. They were two individuals tied together by circumstance and necessity, each bearing the weight of their roles with a mix of disdain and resignation.

As they stepped out of the car and into the view of waiting cameras and eager fans, Andrei could feel Y/N stiffen beside him. He offered his arm, a gesture meant for the watching eyes, and after a brief hesitation, she took it, her grip on his arm surprisingly firm.

The flash of cameras and the murmur of the crowd greeted them as they made their way inside, their smiles practiced and their steps measured. "Remember, just smile and wave. Stick to the script, and we'll get through this," Andrei murmured to Y/N, his voice barely audible over the noise.

"Script? I wasn't aware there was a script for pretending to enjoy watching people chase a puck on ice," Y/N whispered back, her voice laced with a mix of humor and bitterness.

As they approached the grand entrance, Andrei leaned in, his voice low but firm. “Hold my hand,” he instructed, a blend of request and command. Y/N’s initial reaction was one of surprise, her brows knitting together in confusion. Yet, his rationale, whispered in a hurried breath – “You wanted me to step up, right? ‘If we’re going to sell this lie?” – prompted a reluctant compliance. With a soft sigh, she placed her hand in his, their fingers intertwining.

The red carpet that adorned the arena’s entrance was a sea of flashing lights and eager faces, the fans’ excitement mirrored by the curiosity swirling around Andrei and Y/N’s relationship. Despite the turmoil of emotions beneath the surface, they navigated with grace, their smiles carefully curated masks worn for the world to see.

As they pause for photographs, the press urges them for a display of affection, keen to capture a moment that would headline the next day's gossip columns. Feeling the weight of expectation on her shoulders, Y/N turns to Andrei, whispering a challenge masked as a flirtation. "Let's see if you're as good at hockey as you're at kissing," she says.

Without a moment’s hesitation, Y/N bridged the gap between them, pressing a kiss to his lips. It was a bold move, surprising Andrei. The cameras flash frantically, capturing the moment from every angle. The kiss, though and part of their act, sends a ripple of excitement through the crowd, and for a moment, blurs the lines between their public facade and private discomfort.

Andrei, caught off guard by Y/N's audacity, can't help but respond to the kiss with a genuine spark of admiration for her boldness. As they part, he looks down at her, a new sense of respect mingling with the complex web of emotions he harbors towards her. The crowd cheers, delighted by the display, and for a fleeting second, Andrei forgets the world watching them.

Following this electrifying prelude, Y/N was ushered to her seat by Andrei's PR manager, ensuring her smooth transition through the still-buzzing crowd. The arena was alive with anticipation, the energy of the fans a pulsating backdrop to the unfolding drama on the ice.

The match was a nail-biter, the Hurricanes and the Flyers locked in a dance of skill, strategy, and sheer will. Andrei's focus was laser-sharp, undeniably influenced by the presence of Y/N in the stand. Her support, whether real or part of their elaborate ruse, fueled his determination.

When Andrei scored, the arena erupted into cheers and applause, a wave of collective joy sweeping through the crowd. Y/N was on her feet, cheering along with the masses, her earlier doubts and pretense of their situation momentarily forgotten in the genuine thrill of the moment. Their eyes met across teh distance, a silent exchange that carried the weight of words and emotions.

The jumbotron, ever watchful, captured Y/n’s animated reaction, her image filling the screen for all to see. Andrei, glancing up at the replay, was struck by the sight of her genuine smile – a smile he realised he had never truly seen until this moment. The sight of her, so vibrant and unrestrained in her joy, sent an unexpected flutter through his heart, a momentary skip in its rhythm that he couldnt quite comprehend.

As the finals buzzer sounds, signalling a hard-fought victory for the Hurricanes. The atmosphere became electric. Andrei was soon engulfed by his teammates, their shared euphoria palpable in their jubilant celebration. Yet, amidst the chaos of victory, andrei’s thoughts lingered on Y/N. as the team commenced their victory lap, he sought her out in the crowd, their eyes meeting once more. For a moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the arena, her smile is genuine, her applause enthusiastic.

After the game, Andrei finds Y/N waiting for him outside the locker room. The game had transformed the awkwardness of their initial interactions into something more fluid. “You’re pretty good at this thing,” Y/N quipped, her tone light, teasing, yet underscored with a hint of admiration.

Andrei, still riding the wave of adrenaline and unexpected sentimentality, responded with genuine humility. “Thanks for being here,” he said, his voice carrying a warmth and sincerity that reflected his gratitude.

“Well, it’s not like I had a choice,” her playful retort was met with laughter from them both, a spontaneous moment of unity that felt strangely right.

#andrei svechnikov #andrei svechnikov x reader #andrei svechnikov fic #andrei svechnikov imagine #nhl fanfiction #nhl fanfic #hockey fic #hockey fanfic #canes fanfic #canes fanfiction #carolina hurricanes fanfic #carolina hurricanes fic #carolina hurricanes imagine #andrei svechnikov x y/n

83 notes · View notes

mack-devereaux · 4 months

Text

King Sized Bed

Sebastian Aho

Authors note! This is a work of fiction and of my imagination. This is in no way based on true events or how I think these people would act in real life. If you don’t like the fic please scroll on, if you do like it please reblog or give a ❤️! Much love to all of you!

Pictures are from Pinterest so credit to who ever took them.

Triggers: Cursing, drinking. Suggested adult activities but no actual smut. I think that’s it.

Enjoy!

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

You’d always enjoyed sports. Hockey especially, so when you and your best friend moved to Raleigh North Carolina for school it was just a perk that you could attend the occasional hockey game. That was until your best friend had caught the eye of a certain Finnish player. Teuvo Teräväinen. They’d met at a bar after a big playoff win, she looked so happy, and you loved that. A few months into them dating it was almost required for her to be at every game during the new season, not that you were complaining. You loved spending time with her and of course seeing hot nhl players was a huge perk to your shenanigans, but as always the world had a funny way of bringing certain people together and wherever one Finn went, there was another close by. Which was how your little crush on Sebastian Aho developed.

When your best friend got her ticket for the game from Teuvo, yours came shortly after. Always seated together. Always close to the home bench. Always close to the ice. You thought it was just Teuvo telling Sebastian he didn’t want his girlfriend being alone at the games and that your ticket was being forced from the forward, but truthfully Sebastian was actually extremely excited that he could give his ticket to someone. Especially you. He thought it was perfect. Teuvo being his best friend and dating your best friend. It all made sense, but he was a man who didn’t express his emotions very often, so he left it alone. Just dropping hints with the free tickets and invites to all the parties as his ‘plus one’ or more so Teuvos ‘extra plus one’. He found your obliviousness endearing. No matter how obvious he was with his flirting or comments about how happy he was to see you, you never caught on to the genuine feelings and truth behind his actions. Or if you did you just brushed it off, although he saw right through your nerves and shyness.

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

Waiting down in the tunnels by the locker rooms at the end of the games were always your least favorite. You didn’t belong there, no matter how hard your best friend tried to get you to feel comfortable you just weren’t. All the girlfriends and wives were gorgeous and dressed to the nines. Most of the time you just wore jeans or leggings and an oversized sweatshirt. Then of course there were the puck bunnies, leaving very little to the imagination. Not that you were one to judge, you always said ‘if you’ve got it, flaunt it’. You knew you had a nice body, you just preferred not to show it off around the wags and at games. You tried to ignore the stares from the wags and groupies, but soon all you could hear was the girls trying to get the attention of some of the players. Teuvo came over grabbing your best friend and whisking her away, you laughed because you knew he hated the extra attention after they left the locker room. You soon felt a hand on your back, turning to see the most beautiful brown eyes you had ever seen, of course belonging to the man who had your feelings all over the place.

“Hey Sebastian, good game out there. You guys played great” and you meant it. He was on fire, and everyone knew it.

“Thank you for coming to watch, means a lot” he said without breaking eye contact.

He looked up at his friends and noticed they had all headed towards the parking lot.

“Did you drive here? I can take you home if not” Sebastian said “I think your ride is leaving.”

“We grabbed an Uber, I didn’t really think of having a plan to drive home” you laughed, slightly embarrassed by the lack of planning on your end.

“No worries, I’m glad to drive you” he grabbed your hand and led you towards the parking lot.

The ride to your apartment was too short. His hand immediately finding a spot on your thigh, and your hand immediately finding the top of his. You guys found your hands constantly touching each other when no one else was around. He had asked about your schooling and how everything was going with your last year. You asked him about the upcoming games. It was all very domestic and you couldn’t help but think what everyday life would be like with him. As he pulled up to your apartment neither of you moved. How comfortable you were around him spoke volumes. You had never really felt this comfortable around anyone besides your best friend. Looking down at your hands you started playing with his fingers . “Thank you for driving me home Sebastian” you smiled at him.

He smiled back as you opened the door and walked towards your apartment building. As you buzzed yourself in you turned to find him still sitting there watching you. Making sure you made it safe.

Ten minutes later a text came through to your phone.

From Fishy 🐠:

How were your seats for the game this time? Were they ok?

To Fishy 🐠:

They were perfect. Thank you ❤️

From Fishy🐠:

Some of the guys and their girlfriends are coming over tomorrow night. You should come.

To Fishy 🐠:

I’d love to. Goodnight Sebastian 💕

Throwing his phone to the side. He stared at his ceiling. This was his chance. He had spent months trying to find a way to make his move on you. He knew how you felt about him. He’s seen multiple text conversations between Teuvo and his girlfriend and heard multiple phone calls between the two girls, unknowingly to the girl in question of course. She would die of embarrassment had she known what he knew. He had tried to make his feelings clear but somehow you hadn’t caught on to any of his hints. He was just going to have to be more forward the next time he saw you.

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

You and your best friend were getting ready for the party at Sebastian’s house. They had a great month as far as games went and the guys wanted to celebrate. It wasn’t uncommon for you and your best friend to get ready together on FaceTime. Normally she would come over to get ready with you but she had stayed with Teuvo the previous night. You technically still lived together but you couldn’t blame her for wanting to stay with her hot nhl boyfriend overnight. In fact you were positive you’d do the same thing if you had a hot nhl boyfriend. Suddenly a teasing voice came over the phone breaking you out of your thoughts.

“So you do realize you actually have to talk to Fishy tonight right? Especially since he’s the one that invited you” Teuvo teased you.

“Oh my God Teuvo stop. She’s already nervous” your best friend said.

“I talk to him! And you really shouldn’t be going through our text conversations, there’s classified information in there” You said rolling your eyes and glaring at your phone. Teuvo just rolling his eyes back at you. This was a common conversation between the three of you. “What are you wearing tonight?” You added, deciding to ignore her boyfriend.

“A short tight dress! Maybe you do the same!” Teuvo shouted.

“Ok you’re done, out!” Your best friend said as she was pushing Teuvo out of the bathroom she was getting ready in. “Anyway, I am wearing that cute little navy dress I bought two weeks ago” she said as she went back to curling her hair.

“So a short tight dress” you said laughing.

“Oh wear that cute black strappy one! The one you wore for New Years last year! Oh my gosh Sebastian is gonna die when he sees you in that again” your best friend said.

“Ugh, I remember waking up on his couch the next morning” you groaned.

“Nooooo, you remember the both of you waking up on that couch, and he damn near ripped Seth’s head off when Seth commented how good you looked” your best friend said grinning at you “anyway I think we are gonna leave soon, text me when you head out. Love you!!”

“Love you bye” you threw yourself on your bed and sighed as she hung up the phone. Thinking back to New Years, that happened to be the first night you had spent with him, all innocent of course. You had too much to drink and Sebastian was kind enough to let you crash on his couch, in his arms. Looking at the clock you decided you had wasted enough time. It was now or never, and you were dying to see a certain Finn tonight.

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

You wore the dress. Because of course you did. You put your car in park as you looked up at the house, there were a few cars out front but not many. Assuming only a few players with their significant others and all the single guys came over. You checked your makeup in the mirror one last time. Letting out a long breath you grabbed your keys and got out of the car. As you made your way to the front door, slowing your strides, your delusions began to kick in. Wondering what it would be like to come home to this house every night. To have one of the star players come home to you every night. To have him love you in ways no other man ever could. Was this a crush? No, it was much more. It was just now that you realized you were in love with Sebastian.

You walked in to the house and were immediately greeted with the sounds of laughter and chatter from all the people you had grown close to in the last year. You saw him as soon as you walked in, his eyes catching yours and for a moment time stood still. He looked good. His brown eyes softening and a small smile crept on his face. Before you could even take a moment to breathe your best friend and a few of the other girlfriend’s immediately greeted you and you soon felt at ease. What you didn’t see is how Sebastian’s gaze dragged down your body, inappropriate thoughts flooding his mind as he saw what you happened to be wearing, and then smirking at the memory of New Years when you fell asleep in his arms wearing that particular dress. He took a drink as he jumped back in to the conversation between Seth and KK.

As the night went on you slowly drank your glass of wine. Not wanting to drink too much or too fast so you could drive home later. The party had slowly moved to the back yard around the fire pit. As you finished your wine you got up and walked back into the house to put your glass away and to get a drink of water. Sebastian watching you. Teuvo nudged him and Sebastian downed his beer and followed you into the house, it was now or never. Oblivious to what was happening behind you, you noticed some empty food containers and wine bottles on the counter, setting your glass down you decided to tidy up a bit.

“You don’t need to clean y/n” Sebastian said as he opened the fridge to grab another bottle of wine “have another glass of wine and come back outside, let’s just relax and enjoy time with our friends.”

“Umm, I think I’ll just have water, I need to drive home tonight” you said quietly, grabbing a bottle of water out of the fridge.

Sebastian looked behind him making sure no one was eavesdropping. He stepped closer to you.

“You are always welcome to stay here” he said as he grabbed your glass from in front of you. “I’ll move your car into the driveway.” He held his hand out for your keys.

“I don’t want to impose Sebastian, you’ve got a lot going on tonight” you smiled shyly.

“Y/n” the way he said your name was so sensual, eyes staring so intensely at you “at what point are we going to acknowledge what’s happening between us.”

“I don’t know what you mean” you tried avoiding his piercing stare, as he cornered you in the kitchen.

“I’ve got a spare bedroom, and I’ve got a very comfortable couch, as you already know.” Your heart almost stops as he steps closer to you, he puts a hand on your waist as he pours more wine in your glass. Your favorite wine, of course he had that in his fridge, you thought. He knows everything about you.

“Or… I’ve got half of a very comfortable king sized bed that isn’t being used” he sets the wine bottle down, “unless you find yourself on my half of the bed” he smirked, he then sets the water bottle next to the glass of wine he just poured. You realizing he’s making you choose. This decision was more than just water or wine. Water meaning staying friends, and wine meaning more.

“You are more than welcome to any of those three options, but..” he grabs your chin and drags his thump down your bottom lip, tilting your head up to look at him. “The king sized bed is definitely the more..” he paused, “enticing option.” His eyes flicker from your lips to your eyes “your choice love.” He walks away and back outside.

You felt hot, the room was all of a sudden so small. Did that actually happen? Did he actually just invite you to his bed? You stared at the bottle of water and then moved your gaze to the wine glass. A million thoughts were running through your head. Looking outside you saw all your friends, how they were with their significant others. You deserved to be happy too. And Sebastian could give you that, you knew you’d be happy with him, and he’d be happy with you. All you’ve ever wanted just right in front of you. Taking a deep breath you grabbed the glass of wine and made your way back outside to your friends. Catching Sebastian’s eye over the fire he smirked, noticing the wine glass in your hand. A silent confirmation as to what was going to happen later that night. You turned into your best friends side and told her about the encounter that happened just a few minutes ago in the kitchen. Her eyes shooting to the Finnish players. A silent conversation happening between her and Teuvo as they made eye contact.

“It’s about time, I’ve been waiting for this to happen for months. You better call me as soon as possible tomorrow morning” she smiled at you.

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

You were slightly more relaxed after the second glass of wine, very much coherent and in control of your actions, you had just enough alcohol to take the edge off. The party started to dwindle. Teuvo and your best friend currently saying their goodbyes. As soon as the front door lock clicked into place you immediately felt his gaze on you. His eyes taking every part of your body in, and you doing the same to him. His broad shoulders, his muscular chest. Everything about him was just beautiful. He truly was one of the most attractive men you’ve seen. And he wanted you. He made that very clear earlier.

“Should I set up the spare room for you or are you joining me tonight” he spoke so calm and confident. His gaze so intense.

“I think I’d like to stay with you tonight, if that’s okay” you said quietly but with just as much confidence.

“I’ve been waiting a long time for you to say that” he said as he walked towards you. You could practically feel his heart beating just as fast as yours as he pulled you into a kiss, your lips moving together so perfectly. Electricity shooting down your spine. As he pulled away you could only think of what he was like in bed, what you two would feel like together in such intimate moments in his bedroom. What caught you off guard was how relaxed you became as soon as his lips met yours the second time. No more nerves, no more anxiety, you felt at home. Your mind reluctantly went to a moment last year when your best friend had met Teuvo.

*flashback*

Hearing the front door shut you said “so.. how was your night?” You turned to smirk at your best friend.

“He is absolutely incredible y/n. It was the perfect date and the perfect night and he’s just so…” your best friend gushed on and on about her date with a guy she met a few days ago.

“Let me guess, perfect?” You laughed.

“Y/n I wasn’t even nervous around him. That’s how you know you’ve met the right person. There’s no nerves, there’s no anxiousness. Just calm. He’s the one I know it.” Your best friend laid on the couch next to you.

“I’m happy for you, you deserve to be happy” you said genuinely.

“Who would have thought my person was THE Teuvo Teräväinen of the Carolina Hurricanes.”

*present*

Soon it was a flash of teeth clashing and hands grabbing. Clothes disappearing as he lead you to his bedroom. You soon felt your back hit his mattress and good lord he was right. The king bed was definitely the best option of the night. As the rest of your clothes came off the praises began. You had never felt more beautiful than in that moment. In such intimate moments where men often become selfish, Sebastian was the opposite. He spent all night worshiping every single inch of your body, making you feel like the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes on. Putting your pleasure before his, and he definitely satisfied you more than once. As you both came down from your highs your breathing started to slow. Cuddled into his chest and drawing shapes on his stomach with your fingers. In that moment you both realized you were it for each other. He shifted a bit and you looked up towards his face, grabbing your chin and kissing you softly one more time that night.

“In case I wasn’t clear enough, I really want to see where this relationship can go” Sebastian spoke softly.

“I think I’d like that” you whispered.

“Goodnight y/n”.

“Goodnight Sebastian”.

#nhl imagine #nhl x reader #hockey imagines #carolina hurricanes #sebastian aho imagine #sebastian aho

112 notes · View notes

bagopucks · 1 year

Text

J. Hughes - Need You Now [Lady A]

✄————————————

Jack Hughes x Fem!dancer!reader

Requested✨

Word Count: 5.4k

Warning(s); that good ‘ol fluffy madness

This is getting proofread again when I wake up. Again, song in the title is the song of choice for this fic. Not set in stone tho <3

—————————————

Mondays had become a routine. I got up. I texted Jack. We go to school, we hung out. He goes to hockey, I go to dance. We meet up at the Hughes household after, and spend the rest of the evening together.

When Jack and I first got together, we took note of our busy schedules. He had his own hobbies, and I had mine. That being said, our proximity to one another made dating much easier than first expected. Our relationship worked best because of that proximity. And sure, we may have always been exhausted after attending our own practices and rehearsals, but being exhausted together was better than being exhausted apart.

Ellen made late dinners, considering her boys all got home from hockey at a later hour in the evening, but it was a schedule I’d grown comfortable with on Monday afternoons.

I’d been over at the Hughes household helping Ellen with dinner, but I slipped away at the sound of the front door opening. Luke bounded in first, and I playfully rubbed his hair as we passed each other. He was on the hunt for his mother. As was Quinn, who passed by me shortly after with a quick greeting. I chuckled. Jim stepped inside after Jack, and my smile faltered ever so slightly when I saw the looks on both of their faces.

I hesitated. I knew those looks. Jim gave his son a careful pat on the shoulder before locking the door and walking through the house. Jack’s eyes followed his father before they landed on me. He looked defeated. I wasn’t sure what to make of it.

“Hey?” I greeted in question, and watched as he approached. He dropped his hockey bag on the floor. It didn’t take long for him to wrap his arms around me.

“Practice didn’t go so well?” Jim was a good father, but like most sports dads, he could be a bit hard on his kids. Especially when they had big dreams. Quinn was in the process of being looked at by NHL scouts, and Jack -while spoken of by the league- had gotten a hockey scholarship offer from the university of Michigan. He had plans for the NHL too, but either way, he had to keep his skills sharp for both. Which was what Jimmy was always tough on the boys about.

Of all three, I wouldn’t lie. I’d expect Jack to have a lazy practice here and there. Sometimes he just didn’t feel like it, and unlike his brothers, he never pushed through when he was lacking in motivation. It’s something that’s always frustrated his father. Sometimes Jack just couldn’t be bothered to do things.

“I have a headache,” Jack mumbled into my shoulder. I nodded and stroked the back of his head before pulling away.

“Dinner’s almost ready.” It was the only thing I could think of that was going to cheer him up. I grabbed Jack’s hand before I led him into the kitchen, and I could tell Jim must have gotten on him pretty badly by the way Quinn and Luke both tensed when we entered. Like they were afraid Jack just might implode.

“Hey, sweetie! Since when did we start greeting your girlfriend before me?” Ellen teased softly as Jack found his way over to her. He leaned into her side as she gave him a half hug. She picked up on her middle child’s emotional funk as well, and pressed a gentle kiss to his temple before she patted his back as a signal to step away so she could move a pot full of sauce off the stove.

Ellen was just as liable to get on her kids about laziness and a lack of effort. She was a sports parent too. But nothing was worse than hearing it from your dad. And Ellen knew better than anybody that her husband and Jack got into arguments at times. Jack just wanted to be understood, and Jimmy just wanted Jack to understand. He was the difficult kid. By no means were any of her three boys problematic, but Jack definitely put up the most hassle.

“Quinn, why don’t you set the table for me?” Ellen piped up, and earned a nod from her oldest.

Sometimes I found it a miracle that she and Jimmy had managed to raise such obedient kids. Especially after having three boys.

Once the table was set and the food all laid out, Ellen travelled upstairs to find her husband, and I was seated at the table with the three Hughes brothers. I usually sat down at the opposite end of the table from Jim, closest to Jack. Ellen’s place was across from her oldest boy and diagonal to her husband. At the head of the table I felt I could see and speak to everybody from a good angle. Jimmy agreed with me on that.

“Alrighty.” Ellen eventually stepped into the kitchen with a bright smile, but there was tension behind it. I had no doubt she and Jimmy spoke about Jack. He followed in behind her. He looked slightly more jovial than before. Which I was thankful for, because when I turned around to look back at Luke and Quinn, they seemed to overlook the facades of their parents, and they relaxed.

Food was served and conversation was struck up. What was discussed at school, who was taking what tests, and how grades were looking. I chimed in here and there, but I knew the conversation was more of a ‘catch up’ for the parents and their boys than it was for me.

Still, Ellen made a point to praise me for my own good grades and accomplishments. She always wanted me to feel included and welcome.

“How was dance today?” The conversation shifted, and I found frustrations from earlier in the day dawning on me again. I rested my fork on my plate and sigh. Whichever sets of eyes were on food, had quickly set on me. Concern and curiosity in the faces of the family I’d grown to love.

“It was good. We got paired up for group routines today. The guy I got paired with wasn’t there today, and usually that’s fine, but he called in to say he was in the hospital for a stupid broken foot and now I don’t have a partner.. the class is an uneven number now.” I tried not to sound too tense. I’d hate to ruin the family dinner with my own problems.

Jim leaned forward with a smile, and I couldn’t help but wonder what was about to slip past his lips. I loved Ellen. I loved her with all my heart, but Jim and I had the relationship I always wished I had with my own dad. His jokes could cheer me up on a cloudy day when it’s hailing and pouring all at the same time.

“Can’t imagine you’ll have much issue dancing alone, eh?” I smiled. I knew what he meant. I’d won many competitions in the past. I was one of the most skilled in my studio.

“That’s not the point though,” I chuckled and shook my head. “It’s a group routine where everybody is paired. If I don’t have a partner, I can’t be in the routine.” I playfully sassed, and earned a quiet chuckle from the man across the table, as well as his wife. Quinn smiled, but he was never one to give me the gratification of knowing I made him laugh. So he tried to hide his face in his shoulder.

Jack was eyeing me, but he didn’t say much. I cast him a glance before I moved my foot beneath the table to nudge him.

“Well you’ve got three boys here. How hard is the routine for the boy parts?” Ellen asked, and I heard the clinking of various stainless steel silverware pieces on glass dishes before my head whipped to the three who were staring wide eyed at their mother. Jim coughed on a laugh at his boys.

“It’s not impossible.” I answered and watched as the boys slowly looked at me.

“So? Jack? Why don’t you do it with her?” Ellen’s encouraging words earned an uncertain gaze from her son.

“I don’t know, mom..” Jack looked back down at his plate, and I saw his two brothers visibly relax once they thought they were out of the danger zone.

“I think that’s not a bad idea.” Jim chimed in, and I stiffened when I saw him make eye contact with his son. There was subtext in his words that I didn’t understand. That had to do with whatever they were tense over when they came in the house. I watched Jack as he grew uncomfortable again. He looked away. He looked shameful.

“I just don’t think I’d be very good at it.” His words made me smile and nod. I didn’t want to upset him further by arguing.

“It’s really fine. I wouldn’t mind sitting out on it.” I shrugged as I tried to find the right words to deescalate the conflict that had been slowly rising at the table. I heard Quinn sigh.

“I’ll help if you want me to.”

My brow shot up in surprise. I smirked.

“Quinn Hughes? You’d wear tights? For me?” I teased him, and heard his mother giggling when he glared at me.

“I’m out if tights are involved.” I knew his words held no true threat. Quinn would have worn the girliest leotard in existence if I needed him to. He was always there for me.

“What about me? Maybe I wanna help.” Luke joined in, simply because he felt left out of the conversation. His input surprised everybody. It even managed to earn him a look from Jack. Jack, who was usually quick to make a joke. Especially in a moment when he would have the chance to call his younger brother a ‘little girl.’ Instead it was Quinn doing so.

“Woah bud.. didn’t realize you were so interested in wearing tutus.” Quinn gently patted his brother on the back. Luke rolled his eyes.

“Luke. I love you, but I don’t think you’d last a minute in my dance class.” He looked offended at the fact that I had ganged up on him with his brother.

At that point, Ellen had a hand over her mouth and she was desperate to stop herself from laughing at her kids. Jimmy wasn’t to the point of laughter, but I could see his smile out of the corner of my eyes.

“You guys suck.” Luke mumbled, out of the goodness of his heart, and he stood to take his empty plate to the sink.

“Luke, be nice.” Ellen had quickly scolded, through quiet bouts of laughter.

“Take my plate while you’re at it, Lukey.” Quinn handed his plate over, and eventually everybody had given their plates and silverware over to Luke, except for Jack, who was still picking at his food despite his mood.

“Alright Luke. It’s rematch night.” Quinn spoke excitedly as he left the kitchen dining area, followed by the youngest after the plates were in the sink. I could hear them moving things in the living room, a thud, then a quiet ow.

“Quinn! Let your brother use the player one controller!” Ellen jumped up from the table, going to solve the problem between her boys before it escalated.

I spared a glance at Jimmy, who nodded at me in understanding before he stood and took the empty drink glasses to the sink. He stepped out of the kitchen soon after, going to be the backup his wife needed.

It gave me a moment with Jack.

“Hey, bud.” I leaned forward and rested my pointer and index finger under his chin to tilt his head upwards. He was reluctant to make eye contact with me, but he did so anyway.

“What’s up?” It was a general question, not necessarily asking what was upsetting him, but more so what had been on his mind.

“I don’t want Quinn to dance with you.” I noded and smiled at Jack as I reached for his hand.

“You never answered my question earlier.” Jack huffed and shrugged his shoulders. Frustration was bubbling up.

“No. I didn’t want to be there.” At practice. “And.. I got a bad grade on the stupid algebra test. My dad’s all over me for it.. I just- I don’t get it.” I gently squeezed his hand. He hated math. I knew he did. He hated feeling stupid too.

“I told you I’d help.” I whispered, carefully angling my seat to face his as I leaned forward and rested one of my elbows on my knee.

“I know,” his voice was quieter than mine, and I could tell he was disappointed in himself for not reaching out.

“Ya know what I find helps best when I’m stressed?” I flashed him a playful smile. Jack eyed me.

“Dancing.” I tried to coax him into helping me. As much as I appreciated Quinn’s offer to dance with me, I wouldn’t have as much fun with him as I would with Jack.

“You really want me to do that with you?” The middle brother sounded unconvinced.

“You’ll be the most handsome boy out there..” flattery was a tactic I saved for a rainy day with this boy. It didn’t take a lot to convince him of something, but a few compliments never hurt.

“God… you’re so pushy.” His dramatics made me laugh. But they were a telltale sign I had him in the palm of my hand, and that he was feeling a bit better.

“C’mon, Hughes. I’d be your left winger if you ever needed it.” I reasoned and watched him smile.

“I’d never ask you to do that.. you might get hurt.” I rolled my eyes and pulled away to lean back in my chair. I folded my arms across my chest, awaiting his final answer. He could tell I was.

“Fine. But I’m a horrible dancer. Like.. the shittiest dancer you’ll ever meet.” He whispered, not wanting to get caught cursing. It made me laugh.

“Can’t talk your way out of this Hughes. You’re my partner now.”

——————

I don’t know why I asked Jack to do this. It was a risky decision really. I hadn’t seen him dance yet, but just stepping into the studio with him in tow had everybody looking. He was an attractive boy, but he was my boy. It was only worse that Jack thought it best to wear compression pants under his shorts. He looked good. He looked great even. I had always loved the way those pants fit him, but I didn’t anticipate all the other girls loving the way his pants fit him too.

Jack was unbothered by the stares. I showed him where to kick his shoes off and where to leave his things before we stepped into the empty studio. My teacher was upstairs and I wanted a moment to actually stretch him out before he made a fool of himself in front of everybody else. Aside from that, I had a good feeling Dance stretches were not going to benefit him as much as his usual hockey stretches, considering he’d have no clue how to do any of mine. I kicked the door shut and watched him look around.

“The mirrors are- they’re a little much… don’t you think?” I always loved the way Jack’s voice sounded when he was nervous.

“It’s so we can all see each other. I promise you’ll be fine.” I walked around behind him and dragged my hand across his back as I went. I was hopeful some physical contact would help him relax.

“You do some hockey stretches first, yeah? Dance stretching is a little weird.. I don’t think you’ll be any good at it.”

Jack nodded, and joined me on the floor, side by side. We did our own things, but we did them together. He looked so focused that I couldn’t help but giggle every once and I while when I looked at him in the mirror.

“Quinn wouldn’t last a second in here.” Jack finally struck up conversation, and I found his confidence amusing.

“Class hasn’t started, hun. I’d wait before you start talking like that.” I slowly stood up and made my way over while he was doing his own version of what was usually considered a frog stretch. His knees were tucked up beneath his body as opposed to stretched out behind himself. The hockey players always did it that way, and I’m sure they had their own methods to their madness.

“Lean forward?” I rested my hands on his back and pushed down gently while I let Jack do most of the work. He stopped when his face was still a foot from the floor. I rubbed his shoulders and laughed softly at the sigh he let out.

“You have to breathe through it. Doesn’t help if you hold your breath.” He nodded, but he didn’t listen to a word I said. He still held his breath. I assumed if I made him keep the position long enough, he’d learn, but when the door opened, I quickly stood upright. Jack unfolded and leaned back against my legs to catch his breath.

“Mrs. Jenny.” I greeted, the dark haired teacher shot me a wave in return before her eyes trailed down to the boy who fought for his breath and rubbed his legs, leaned back against my own.

“Is this one of Ellen Hughes’ boys?” Her question caught me and Jack off guard.

“Yeah?” Uncertainty laced my tone.

“Oh my god-“ the rest of the class poured in, just as confused as I was. “Are you Jack?” She walked over, and Jack hoisted himself to his feet to shake her hand, nodding to her question.

“I met you when you were like.. four.. Ellen and I used to be so close.” Jenny looked him up and down, bewildered. Like most random people were when they saw a kid they hadn’t seen in a while. And of course, Jack looked as uncomfortable as he could possibly get.

“Then she had Luke and just got so busy. It’s a thrill to have one of her kids here. I always assumed it might be Luke.”

Jack and I both laughed. We saved that information to torture Luke with later.

“You’re gonna be a fun pair to work with.”

——————

And it seemed we were. Jenny got Jack and I on an individual schedule. One that worked around my normal dance classes and one that worked around his hockey practices. She was beaming every time she stepped into the studio and got to work with us, and Jack seemed to love her as much as I always did. Jack admitted to me that the classes were fun, and even helped with the hockey burnout he’d been experiencing. When I spent nights in the Hughes household, I could only assume the classes were helping, seeing as the tension between Jack and his father was practically nonexistent.

I found myself occasionally stumbling over our dance when I looked up into the mirror, only to spot that bright smile on Jack’s lips he gets when he knows he’s got the hang of something. He was so distracting, the way his eyes lit up and his hair bounced. Jenny invited Ellen in one day to watch, but Jack insisted she didn’t see a thing. Ellen tried her best to get her son to give in, but Jack shut her out of the studio and pulled the blinds in the window. He knew his mother well enough to know she’d have videos. And then his brothers would have them.

I had to remind him that he was only prolonging his fate.

Eventually, Jack and I got the hang of not only the dance, but the mental link of communication that came with it. Our rehearsals went from Jenny interrupting every so often or her spending the bulk of her time on Jack, to her sitting back and watching us. Critiquing at the end of each run through, and helping us perfect what we had.

At the end of the week, we were professionals. Jenny got such a kick out of watching us, consistently praising our chemistry and professing her love for instructing a young couple. Jack and I never had responses for that, but it always made us blush.

When the practices ended, and it came up on the eventual public performance, Jack and I were clearing out the living room in the Hughes house to go over everything.

“Jack!” I shouted through laughter. A light tug on my arm caused me to fall into step and twirl into his side. We’d stopped rehearsing close to an hour ago. At this point, we were goofing off to the song that was playing through his phone. He was laughing too, with an arm wrapped around my side while he swayed us back and forth.

“I’m by your side,” he sang horribly in my ear, causing me to pull away and push him.

“God Jack, shut your mouth.” I giggled and allowed him to grab my hand and pull me back in. He rested his other hand on my hip as he continued to ‘serenade’ me. His voice was flat. He was a horrible singer. But in my mind he sounded prettier than the birds.

“Our friends would all make fun of us…” I rolled my eyes at him. If you can’t beat them, join them.

“The world will never ever be the same!” I quickly joined in, and soon we were yelling the lyrics, our motion ceased as we stood and held each other, heads thrown back to deliver the lyrics of the soft song to the ceiling.

Neither of us heard the quiet thudding on the steps, or Quinn’s frustrated grumbling, until he was in the living room doorway, glaring daggers at us. Jack noticed him first, my back was turned to him. When I saw the look on my boyfriend’s face, I quickly moved to get a view of his older brother.

“I’m trying to study, dude.” Quinn sounded exasperated. I pursed my lips and giggled. Jack wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me back into his chest. He rested his chin on my shoulder.

“Study harder,” Jack taunted.

“I can’t when there’s dying animals in my living room.” Quinn’s words were sharp, but I took no offense to them. “Sorry,” he apologized in my direction, but I shrugged.

“Just study outside.” Jack suggested, knowing the best ways to get on his brother’s nerves.

“In the rain, Jack?” Quinn placed his hands on his hips. “Why don’t you go dance in the rain?”

“‘Cause she’ll get sick!” Jack gestured to me.

“But it’s okay if I get sick studying in the rain?” Jack reached for his phone as his brother spoke, and turned up the volume.

“Jack!” Quinn raised his voice in warning. I snickered. “Jack!” He repeated his brother’s name as Jack began to sway with me back and forth. He held instigating eye contact with his brother. Challenging Quinn.

“What?” The middle child called. I winced at the volume of his voice.

At that point, all the noise had attracted Jimmy, who stepped in the room beside Quinn. He looked confused and frustrated. I chuckled when I noticed he and his son wore the same expressions.

Jack quickly reached for his phone to pause the music.

“What’s going on?” Jimmy’s question had me slowly pulling from Jack. To detach from the situation at hand.

“Jack’s being loud.”

“Quinn’s being rude!”

I felt like I’d heard them having this fight before.

Jimmy sighed. Sighed like he’d heard it all one too many times.

“Jack, turn the music down and stop yelling. Quinn, just go back to whatever you were doing.” I heard another set of footsteps down the hall, and I watched Jimmy turn, point a finger, and say ‘no’ to the figure I couldn’t see. It had to be Luke, I had no doubt he wanted to investigate and instigate.

Jimmy ushered Quinn and Luke back up the steps before he made his way to the basement. Jack and I were alone in the living room again.

“I don’t even care if we royally screw this up. I’m gonna have so much fun with you.” I wrapped my arms around Jack’s neck as I spoke. I leaned back as he leaned forward, holding my hips.

“I’m gonna ace it. You just watch.” His excitement made me smile.

——————

“Alright. Don’t laugh.” I stood outside the boys bathroom in the school hallway. It was a Saturday night. Jenny decided to hold the recital at our public school because of the size of the stage. “How do I look?”

As Jack stepped out, I took time to examine his figure. He wore a tight fitting black shirt, and a pair of black pants that resembled sweats, just not as loose. I wasn’t sure what I wasn’t supposed to laugh at until I saw his hair.

“Jack.” it made me nervous. He knew what I was staring at.

“I was wearing a hat all day! I had a bad hair day!”

“Is there anybody else in the bathroom?” My question was answered with a shake of the head, and I was quickly shoving Jack back into the bathroom. Water had to fix it. If it didn’t, I had no other solutions.

“Mom said she was bringing hair gel.” Jack informed me as I ran my hands under the faucet and reached up to smooth down his hair. My prayers were answered when I saw the mess become more tame.

“It’s alright.. I think I got it. Your hair doesn’t look the best gelled anyway.” My words were subconscious, but they made Jack scoff out a playful gasp nonetheless.

“Rude.”

We stepped out of the bathroom in time to spot Ellen, and I smiled at her while she approached with a matching grin on her lips.

“Seems like you got that sorted.” She spoke as she inspected her son’s hair. “I’m so excited. Watching my baby do something new… I don’t get that very often any more.” Her words made Jack blush. “Good luck!” She gave her son a tight hug, and I was quick to accept the one she offered me as well, before we made our way backstage.

I was bewildered by Jack’s calm attitude while we watched people from behind the cover of the offstage curtains. He seemed so patient and relaxed. I on the other hand, was fiddling with everything I could. When he noticed, he grabbed my hand, and he didn’t stop holding it, even as the next blackout came and we were stepping out on stage. It worried me when Jack still didn’t let go, even as we were trying to get set. And I realized that he was as nervous as I was. Just more reserved about it. It was gutsy, but I turned to press a kiss to his cheek before I pulled my hand from his own, and reset myself.

I heard an ‘awww.’

I smiled.

I knew it was Ellen.

It was a different world when the lights came up. It was a world I shared with Jack. A more mature world, to a song we two loved but emotionally knew nothing about. Jenny said our chemistry and passion made it look like we did know.

When Jack wrapped his arm around my back and I dropped to hang there -folded backwards like a towel on a rack that was his arm- he walked me across the stage and I couldn’t help but lift my head to look up into his eyes. He could drop me. But I knew he wouldn’t.

And when I got the chance to travel around him and turn his body into mine, I gave him every physical signal I could that he was doing a good job, even as his eyes searched mine for approval. I held his face as he stepped forward, and I, back.

He held my hips. I held his hands. He holds my body. I hold his heart.

Dance is a different type of communication. But there was a type I knew we were better at, and in one song I’d managed to fall deeper in love with him.

When the lights dimmed, and I froze in his arms, we were quietly heaving for breath. He’d learned to stop holding it.

His eyes flickered to my lips. Mine told him, ‘not here.’

He kissed me anyway.

When he pulled away, we were breaking out into huge smiles, and I grabbed his hand to drag him off the stage.

“We did it!” I jumped into Jack’s arms the moment we got behind the curtain, and he held on for dear life.

“I’m never doing this again!” His words caught me off guard, and my brow furrowed in question as he put me down. “I thought I was gonna throw up.”

I realized what he meant, and I chuckled softly.

“You were so pretty out there,” he whispered as we made our way out of the backstage area, stepping back out into the dimly lit hall.

I turned to face Jack and placed my hand at the nape of his neck. I brought his lips in for another short and sweet kiss.

“You’re a trouble maker. You know that?” I whispered.

“My mom’s probably got a million pictures of us,” he tried to change the subject, but my quick wit got us back on track.

“Probably a million of us kissing too.”

“Oh god..” he sounded devastated, but I knew he wasn’t.

“Consequences of your actions, bud.” I gently patted his chest and pulled away. “Very risqué move out there.”

“We’ve had others.” His mischievous smile made me roll my eyes.

We have had others.

“Come on.” I led him back to one of the empty classrooms used as a makeshift waiting from for the rest of the company. We sat there side by side for the rest of the recital, occasionally talking, occasionally scrolling through our phones. Every once and a while, Jack would turn to me and kiss me. It helped pass the time a lot faster.

When the recital was over, Jack and I were slipping on our shoes and gathering our things. Despite this being my event, he seemed more eager to get us out there to see family and friends. He dragged me behind him as we entered the auditorium, searching for his family before we caught sight of Quinn talking to one of his own friends. When Ellen spotted us, she was beaming. And waving.

Jack and I quickly closed the distance between ourselves and his family. Ellen hugged me first this time, and I couldn’t help but laugh at Jack’s gasp.

“Greeting my girlfriend before me,” Jack mumbled, surprise flashing across his face when Jimmy pulled him into his side.

“Proud of you guys.” Jack shared a look with his father, before giving the man an actual hug. Ellen was quick to reach into the seat in front of her, pulling out two bouquets of flowers.

“Quinn thought you both needed flowers.” She explained as Jack pulled away from his father.

“Oh my-“ Jack paused, turning to look for his brother before Ellen tapped his shoulder, turning his attention back to her.

“Not now, Jack.”

We got a few pictures with the flowers, and Ellen got a few of us when we weren’t looking. I congratulated a few of the girls I was friends with on their performances, greeted some friends I knew that had attended, and had a few pictures taken with my mother, who Jack helped me find.

After that, Jack convinced his father to let us take the spare car out for ice cream. Jack argued with Luke for a good ten minutes about not going before Ellen told the youngest to let it go, and Quinn informed Luke that they’d go on their own.

I couldn’t have been bothered to feel bad for the other two boys. Jack spent our evening after the dance in the parking lot of an ice cream shop, giggling and joking back and forth in the car. Sharing another moment, where it was only us in the world.

✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾❀✾

#jack hughes #jack hughes imagine #jack hughes x reader #nhl imagine #nhl x reader

411 notes · View notes

idontlikeem · 16 days

Note

What made Geno your fave?

Oh boy!

For background, I started watching hockey in fall of 2009. I was bored over the summer and decided to get into a new sport. I’d never cared about hockey because my family didn’t follow it (we are football and basketball people), so I had no particular team I had allegiance to, so I did what any reasonable prospective fan would do: I looked up the most recent championship team and scanned their roster for hot guys.

There was Sid, of course. About my age, captain, and oh he’s cute, ok I can work with that. I did some research on his story and found it fascinating, because who doesn’t love a good golden boy narrative? A promising start.

Jordy Staal was also really cute to me, and Flower was pretty. And then we got to Geno, who the first picture I really remember seeing of him is one where he was smiling big, and as we all know he has the BEST smile.

After that, his backstory was just as interesting to me as Sid’s, in a totally different way. I mean, it sounds like a spy thriller, right? It’s crazy. And then he won the MVP that playoffs, and the highlights were up on YouTube, and wow, look at him skate. Look at him and Sid skate together, wow they’re so good. Look how Geno spins and cuts through guys out there, look how quick he is, how fast his hands are moving the puck.

I knew fuck-all about what I was watching but his skating style is so distinctive that I was able to pick him out on grainy 2009 and earlier footage with ease; let me tell you, focusing on ONE player for a full game or even period is such an underrated way to learn the sport. You see what they do when they don’t have the puck and it helps you figure out strategy, how plays develop, what defense is. Highly recommend.

He was still pretty quiet with the media then and I don’t think he was on Twitter yet, but he seemed funny and cute and I really liked his accent! And all the guys seemed to be friends, and I love that in a sports team.

It was summer so I watched a lot of the Pens’ old YouTube features. I learned about Mario and Jagr and the first set of back to back cups, and Sid’s draft, and how the team almost left the city. I learned about the rivalries with other teams, and the way the league worked, and what a salary cap is, and all the different penalties. And as it got closer to the start of the 09-10 season, I watched the road to the cup video for the run I’d just missed (it’s on YouTube now!) and there was that shot of Geno looking up, you know the one, with his scar, and that was my tipping point. The coverage of him in the Carolina series just sealed it.

He fascinates me. He’s shy but loud, funny but so publicly emotional. He’s flawed as hell but he tries so hard. He’s arrogant but he deserves to be, and he’ll never ever allow anyone to give him credit for when he’s playing well, he deflects. He’s accurately predicted the future twice. He’s so loyal it’s to the point of folly, almost. He has an unbelievable smile and rescues alley cats and is scared of big dogs. He’s a bully who’s never met a charity he didn’t contribute to.

And holy shit can he skate. Holy shit does he play beautiful, brutal hockey. He’s vicious with his stick and graceful with his hands.

And, yeah, he’s hot. That’s important to me too and I’m not sorry about that!

Anyway, I like him a lot. Thanks for sending me this ask and letting me talk about why :)

#evgeni malkin #pittsburgh penguins #here have some idontlikeem lore #apologies if there are typos I’m on my phone and this was total stream of consciousness and I can’t be bothered to read for errors #when I’m being sincere I don’t like to edit what I say anyway it makes it feel artificial #posts like this are always genuine and from my heart! I’m not trying to be or sound any particular way #anyway I love him so bad he’s my very special guy #also anything for an excuse to promote the torchtoburn primers #please read them if you haven’t they’re excellent and you’ll learn a lot

51 notes · View notes

zozo-01 · 9 days

Text

"you’ve learned a long time ago to stop thinking things would change. (it didn't stop you from hoping anyways.)"

So, it's that time of year again, and I don't have the Raptors to distract me. It's the NHL playoffs and I am a Leafs fan. If you know, you know. I wrote this a year ago for myself and @thatlesbeanjew because being a hockey fan is not the faint of heart, and I completely forgot to post it to Tumblr ;-;. The title is from Jason's Spezza's retirement article and I think it applies well here.

For my sports (specifically hockey) fans who're in an toxic relationship with your favourite team, here's some southern comfort for you.

CW: author is being sentimental about grown men playing a game, i wrote this with the last years Bruins' collapse in mind (sorry tay), but no team is mentioned!!, city wolf darlin makes a comeback, Fluff, Comfort, so much comfort, someone send me to therapy

There’s never an easy way to say goodbye.

No one wants to say goodbye, and even if it has to be said, let it be said with finality, with a sense of accomplishment. That even if this is the end, the journey was enjoyable. That the blood, sweat, tears (and really dumb questions) were worth it. That the years, your childhood, spent hoping were worth it.

No one wants to end on a whimper, especially if it’s broadcasted on national TV.

They still can’t believe that final goal went in.

Darlin’ stared at the TV, watching the series-winning goal over and over again. Their eyes tried to rewrite history, using what magic they have to will the puck to not cross the red line. Go wide right, hit the post, or even knock a player's teeth out for all they care! All their efforts were for naught. The goal still goes in, the building goes silent save for the cheers from the opposing team, and the season was over.

It was hard to believe that just a moment ago, their body was buzzing with anxiety, every sensation was cranked up to an eleven. Only for all that excitement collapsing inside their body, creating a black hole within their heart, numbing them to the result of the game in front of them.

All of that emotional investment just to get the same result. They felt silly for letting themselves dream, believe, with nothing to prove their faith. Everyone around them had been right, but they insisted on their foolish delusion, stubborn to the very end for this hockey team that has brought them nothing but pain.

Darlin’ had always preferred the painful route, embodying the sentiment that ‘love is pain’. It just so happened that it applied to more than the people in their life.

Their legs lost all their strength, causing them to fall backwards onto the couch. Their eyes stayed glued to the screen, ears ringing louder than any goal horn they’d heard in their life. Part of them wished they had never decided to care for this stupid team that only does stupid things and makes them cheer like a stupid idiot.

Ok, maybe this seems like an exaggerated reaction to a hockey team losing a game, but truly, this is how Darlin’ felt at this moment.

And Sam knew it.

They barely registered the soft blanket wrapping around their shoulders, but the warmth helped ground them a little bit. Sam always knew how to bring them out of their daze, with gentle pressure and plenty of space. Always giving them the choice of when to ask for help, a choice they’ve found themselves making more often.

They heard the faint clink of a plate on the coffee table in front of them. But what had knocked them out of their trance was Sam finally turning off the damn TV. It didn’t stop the goal horn from ringing in their ears, but at least they didn’t have to see that fucking rat’s shit-eating grin again. Who the fuck does he think he is? Fuck that guy, fuck that team, fuck everything-

They blinked repeatedly, feeling Sam’s hand playing with their hair. “I can feel your rage from here,” he chuckled. “Can’t imagine what you’re plannin’ to do to the other team in that pretty brain of yours.” Slowly, he shifted his arm to wrap around their shoulder to pull them closer to his chest. The tension that built up in their forehead had finally gone away when they heard his heartbeat. “Knowin’ you, you’re plannin’ something nefarious.”

“...I know where they’re stayin’,” they mumbled, nuzzling their face deeper into Sam’s chest. “That’s all I’ll say about that.”

He kissed their hair line and pulled them closer. “For the record, I will not be an accessory to your murderous rampage.” The small smile on their face prompted him to continue. “But I promise I won’t tell no one about your little scheme.” Leave it to Sam to make them smile when all they want to do is curl under a blanket and bleach the game from their mind.

They huffed in his chest. “I appreciate you not snitchin’ on me, but come on? You ain’t gonna help your mate with the body? Fake ass bitch.” Darlin’ let out a quiet giggle. Seeing the southern man deadpan at them is a surefire way to make them smile.

He pinched their nose and scoffed, “forgive me if I don’t want to see my mate in jail because a hockey team decided to beat your team.”

They pout at his statement, not appreciating the blunt tone he used. Come to think of it, when he puts it like that, their reaction to the ending of this game seems ridiculous. Wanting to kill grown men for doing their job? Because they just happen to beat their team? They’re a grown adult damn it! They’re better than being emotional over a team!

Sam flicked their forehead, knocking them out of their spiral. He pulled his wolf closer to him, letting their head rest on his shoulder. “No self-deprecatin’ spiral for you, Darlin’. You’re allowed to feel shitty over a game.” He continued to pet their hair, content with sitting in silence until they were ready to speak.

Darlin’ kissed his cheek and sighed. “I know, I know, I’m valid with my feelins’, it’s just…” They trailed off, biting their bottom lip while trying to articulate their thoughts into words. If only incoherent screaming was enough for Sam to understand their emotions. “When I say this team has sucked for my entire life… there hasn’t been a year where shit has gone right for us.”

Their vision blurred as they continued. “And I’m so fuckin’ tired of- of having hope that things will end different and then they never do!” The more words that poured out of them, the more anger bled into their voice. “It’s like, come on! They’ve had decades and so many different fuckin’ players and management to get their shit together and they never do! How much longer do they think people are gonna blindly follow them until…” A sob crept up their throat. “...Until we all decide to just… not care.”

They sighed in frustration. “I know it’s so stupid to fuckin’ care about a stupid team this much… I don’t know… They were the only good thing from my childhood.” Darlin’ chuckled at their last statement. “God, how has mt life been if this fuckin’ team was the best part?”

He rubbed their arm to comfort them. “Well on the bright side, it led you to my arms, so could it have been that bad?” Darlin’ pinched his chest, but that only caused their vampire to laugh harder. “Am I wrong, Darlin’? You seem to be enjoyin’ my arms a little too much,” he teased, acting as if it was a complaint against them. They both knew that Sam would rather die again than see his wolf in another person’s arms.

He held their face in his hands. Sam knew every little habit and quirk that Darlin’ had, and he knew that they wouldn’t look him in the eyes whenever they got emotional like this. “Darlin’, I need you to look at me please.”

They did as he asked them to, lifting their gaze and getting lost in his silver eyes. He kissed their forehead, whispering a soft ‘thank you’ against their skin. They don’t know if he’ll ever understand how fucking terrifying it was to have someone know them so well. But they wouldn’t trade that blissful feeling for anything else.

“It’s not stupid to care about this team, Darlin’. They were a huge part of your best memories as a kid. And maybe you will get tired of them one day and it will suck. But there’s no shame in lovin’ unconditionally.”

Darlin’s vision blurred again and cleared their throat to stop themselves from sobbing. “Even if they hurt me over and over again?”

Sam smirked, “well if they hurt you again, I’ll have to pay a visit down to their office and make sure they win.” Darlin’ scoffed at his cockiness but didn’t stop him from continuing. “‘Sides, like you always say.”

“Oh God, don’t say it-”

“There’s always next year.”

“I’m gonna fuckin’ kill you.”

#redacted asmr #redacted audio #redacted fanfic #redacted darlin #redacted sam #be a leafs fan they said #itll be great they said #so rude that i dont have sam with me this year #this is year will be torture #zo writes tingz #this is zo speaking

34 notes · View notes