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brainrattlers · 11 months

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Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (43/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 2860

Warnings: A little bit of angst, but nothing bad, I promise. Probably language.

Need to start from the beginning? Here's where it all began! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Want to catch up? Check out the Masterlist!

Author's Notes: I. Am. BACK!!! Short chapter, struggling a bit to find words, but I figured I'd get something posted, and then add some of the stuff brewing in the next few weeks than rush it all at once. It's been a wild few months, looking for a new job (I'm still employed, just looking to upgrade), but also adding a bunch of side gigs to my list of things I shouldn't be doing but here I am.

So what's going on with Tyson and AJ? Summer vacation has started, and these two have a few months to do whatever they want. Let the planning begin!

*****

While the season didn’t end quite as hoped by the Sabres, Tyson remained optimistic about things to come. His end-of-season exit interview went well, according to him, saying he wanted to be back with the team. Locker cleanout days are always a little emotional, but Tyson was in good spirits, all things considered.

AJ was trying to keep the same level of optimism, but her gut kept her guarded, knowing that a lot of what was to come was actually hinging on a few other players on the team. If Okie and Girgensons stay put, there was a good chance that there wouldn’t be a spot for Tyson. Not only that, but of course Tyson becomes a restricted free agent July 1st. And as is, Okie was signed to a single year contract. It now was falling on the fate of Girgensons.

So really, it was a game of “hurry up and wait.” AJ was starting to feel like that might just be how life was going to be from here on out with Tyson until a team realizes how much of a gem Tyson is. Granted, AJ is a little biased in her description of Tyson’s style of play and how much teams really could use a player like him…

“You know, we can go do whatever we want, right?” Tyson jostled AJ’s foot on his lap, noticing she was scrolling aimlessly on her phone. “I have some friends up in BC asking me to come out. You want to go on vacation? Grandma and Grandpa would love to see you again…”

“... really? Using Emily and Jim as bait to get me to up north? You play dirty, Tys.”

Tyson grinned, knowing AJ had a soft spot for his grandparents. She had lost hers years prior, and missed the grandparent vibe. You know the one, where you get spoiled, either with a favorite meal, or a $10 bill slid into your hand when mom wasn’t looking. It really isn’t even about the getting spoiled part either, there is something so special hearing all the stories from their past, learning bits and pieces about what made them the people they are today. It truly was something she missed with her own grandmothers since their passing. Emily and Jim definitely brought that vibe to her, and embraced her as their own grandchild.

AJ thought about it though, and Tyson could see the gears turning in her head. He waited patiently for her to say something more, because an idea was definitely brewing.

“What would you think about some summer shenanigans?” AJ squinted at Tyson, gauging his response to the vague proposition.

“What kind of shenanigans?”

To be honest, AJ was missing some of her old friends. The world can feel so small with the internet, bringing people together digitally, but it’s just not the same as in person. AJ missed seeing Jess. It’d been months since they were in the same space, meeting up back in February in St. Louis. She missed Nate. She missed some of the other friends she made in Denver during her brief time there.

“I was thinking maybe talking to Jess, and as soon as she could, maybe a couples’ trip with her and Nate? Like maybe they come up here, or we go out there, or… we meet up somewhere? I’m not sure yet. I hadn’t really asked her either, but I know she’d be down. The only hindrance at the moment is…” AJ got quiet, realizing what she was going to have to say, “Nate’s still in the playoffs.”

AJ cringed at having to say that, considering how last season went. Thankfully, Tyson’s work on himself last summer and this year with family and a sports psychologist really helped his mental game. He nodded in understanding, and didn’t even flinch. Buffalo made a good run at the playoffs, but just came up short. It was going to whole new level for the team next season, so right now, his feelings were not hurt by the statement.

This time, it was Tyson that got a little quiet, chewing on his lip for a minute before responding.

“I’m sorry I hadn’t brought it up sooner, but a few of the guys are talking about heading down to Hilton Head, kind of an end of season guys trip,” Tyson sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, “We’d be leaving Monday.”

“It’s okay, you know I’ve got plenty going on here, besides, it’s not like my plan can happen quite yet anyway. But would you be interested, if they are?”

A smile broke out on Tyson’s face, followed by a nod. Leaning down, he pressed a kiss to AJ’s temple.

“Yeah, that sounds like a blast. You’re the best babe!”

AJ chuckled as Tyson skipped off to the bedroom. Looking around the living room, kind of lost in thought, she grabbed her phone.

AJ: Would you and Nate be up for some shenanigans this summer?

Not even a minute had passed before AJ’s phone was vibrating in her palm.

Jess: We’re in.

***

AJ got used to Tyson being away on roadies, and she always found things she could do that she enjoyed while he was gone. Eating food that he didn’t like (or shouldn’t eat, and likely, she probably shouldn’t eat either), sprawling out in bed, listening exclusively to her music, staying up late and watching cheesy movies… stuff like that. It was nice to have AJ time.

But truth be told, AJ missed Tyson while he was on the guys’ trip. He was checking in multiple times daily (and getting absolutely roasted for it), but it didn’t make up for the little things she was missing, like him wrapping his arms around her midsection as she’d chop vegetables for dinner, swaying to the music they had on in the kitchen. The random notes that would be written in the steam on the bathroom mirror. The way Tyson would pull AJ in as the little spoon, mumbling incoherently as he drifted off to sleep.

Even the kinda gross things, because, let’s face it, Tyson’s a guy, AJ missed. The way Tyson would burp after chugging a protein shake. How he’d stick his stinky sock feet in AJ’s face when they were laying opposite each other on the sofa together. The occasional facial hair clippings littering the sink in the bathroom. (Although that was just more irritating than gross.)

AJ was simply missing Tyson.

After cleaning the kitchen up from breakfast, AJ headed to the hobby room, and flopped on the sofa, where one of Tyson’s hoodies was thrown on. Rolling over, she reached up over her head and grabbed it, spying which one it was. It smelled faintly of his body wash as she inhaled, sighing into it. Although not really cold, AJ put it on and fell asleep in a somewhat warm embrace of his hoodie.

The buzzing of her watch urged AJ to open her eyes as a certain someone was wanting to FaceTime.

A very groggy looking AJ appeared on Tyson’s screen.

“Hey baby girl, I didn’t wake you up, did I? Is… that my hoodie?”

AJ rubbed her eyes and looked down, and back at her phone camera with a smile.

“I suppose it is. I was napping but I really shouldn’t be if I want to get to bed at a decent hour tonight. What are you guys up to today?”

Tyson told the tales of going golfing and hanging out at the beach with the guys. All the different restaurants they stopped at. But there was something a little off about how he was acting, but AJ couldn’t put her finger on it.

Finally when he stopped talking, AJ piped up.

“You good?”

Biting his lip, Tyson put his thoughts in order before opening his mouth.

“I mean, yeah, but, no. It was weird, last night we went clubbing, and the guys were pairing off with girls they met there, and there were two that wouldn’t leave me alone and…”

AJ’s heart was pounding hard, worried about what might be said next.

“... I had to just get out of there, I took a Lyft back to the house. I… just miss you.”

The breath AJ didn’t know she was holding came out in a gasp, and Tyson caught the tear coming down her cheek. It wasn’t her intention to get emotional, but it hit her hard. And seeing AJ tearing up, made him get teary-eyed as well, but he wasn’t sure why she was to begin with.

The dam broke.

“I miss you too babe, so much,” AJ just let the words fall out of her mouth without a filter, “It just hasn’t been the same here without you. You make my world better.”

Tyson was wiping his eyes, trying to act like he wasn’t crying at all when one of the guys came by him asking if he were about ready to head out.

A mumbled, “Yeah, uh, I’ll be just a minute, no, my allergies are acting up or something, I’m good,” was overheard, before he looked back at his phone. “Hey, we’re heading out for another course, call you tonight before bed?”

“Of course. Go kick some ass on the green! Love you.”

“Love you too, talk tonight,” Tyson blew a kiss at his phone.

AJ “caught” it and smooshed it on her lips before ending the call.

Now wide awake from that unexpected conversation, AJ sat up and started thinking about what she could do to fill some time between now and this evening when Tyson would call. There was only so much cleaning she could do around the apartment to ease her racing mind, so she grabbed her tablet and started looking at vacation spots, texting Jess along the way.

AJ: Would you guys like to come up here? I know it isn’t fancy like Denver is, but there is so much cool stuff to see and do here, really!

Jess: Hmm… I’d be down, but I’m thinking we should get away from EVERYTHING. Mexico has been calling my name here lately, I miss it.

AJ: I’ve never been. I’m looking up some places though. Cancun looks fun, and there seemingly is a lot to do around there. Ooh, they have a big art museum nearby, that sounds good. And Chichen-Itza and Tulum aren’t terribly far either.

Jess: You’re forgetting margaritas and all the amazing food!

AJ: Yes, that too! lol

AJ could feel Jess rolling her eyes at the choices of things she wanted to see. That was the funny thing too, if Nate had heard what AJ was saying, she was pretty sure he too would be rolling his eyes in the same way. Those two really are perfect for each other.

As the afternoon and evening went on, texts were sent back and forth about potential places to stay. It was just going to be a game of figuring out WHEN, with Avs in the playoffs, and knowing Tyson, he probably already had a summer packed with things to do. AJ knew that he was planning on heading out to Edmonton, and had mentioned something about maybe working out with some trainers in Vancouver for a bit. Tyson was never one to really stop and relax somewhere for an extended amount of time, other than with his family whenever he could.

The planning texts were interrupted by a facetime with Tyson, who seemed far more chipper than he did previously.

“How was golfing? Your nose looks a little pink, shoulda worn more sunscreen,” AJ joked, knowing he always gave her shit as she was pasty white and burned within minutes in the sun.

“It was good, shot five over, not bad for a course I’d never played on. Yeah I got a bit of sun today. Thankfully we’re heading out tomorrow. You still picking me up from the airport? I get in around noon.”

AJ looked panicked, looking at her watch, then back at her phone screen, seeing Tyson’s face contort into concern.

“You are picking me up, right? I mean, I can get a ride with one of the guys, but…”

The giggles couldn’t be contained, and fell out of AJ’s mouth.

“Of course, goof, I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I haven’t seen you in like a week,” she grinned, “Besides, I found a new burger place I want to try, figured we could swing by on the way home.”

A wave of relief washed over Tyson, knowing he was going to get to see AJ as soon as he got out of the airport. AJ then saw Tyson squint a bit, and roll his eyes after his phone buzzed. Quirking her eyebrow, he could tell she was wondering what was going on just by the subtle movement.

“The rest of the guys went back clubbing again tonight. It’s just not as fun, not without you here. I just didn’t want a repeat of last night, it just felt… wrong. In fact, I just got called an old man for turning in early. I’m not going to feel like shit on the plane at least.”

The two chuckled, and continued talking for a bit, until it was evident Tyson really did get a bit of extra sun and he was pretty wore out, getting sleepier with each new topic that was brought up. After a few minutes of being disgustingly cute and sending kisses to each other, they finally ended the call.

Tyson laid in bed, still feeling awkward about the previous night, despite nothing actually happening. It did occur to him just how much he and AJ complemented each other. Dancing with random women in a bar no longer was exciting. He’d rather dance in the kitchen with AJ. Taking a woman back to his hotel was the furthest thing on his mind, unless that woman was AJ.

“Maybe I really am turning into an old man!” he thought to himself, as a smile crept up on his face as he drifted off to sleep.

AJ woke up late the next morning, relaxing in bed, completely sprawled out, for one last time before Tyson would be back. Spending an hour scrolling through Instagram, she finally got up, got a shower, and a quick breakfast before grabbing a small baggie from one of the cabinets in the kitchen and heading out the door. AJ and her black Soul hit the road, heading to the airport.

Once the car was parked, AJ headed inside, outside of the security area. Looking around, AJ saw her target… and it wasn’t Tyson. With a smile and a wave, she headed over to Karma, whose ears perked up when Ann waved back, asking if Karma knew who was coming.

“Hey Karma, who is a good girl? IT IS YOU!!!” AJ scratched Karma’s ears before giving her a treat from the bag. “Hey Ann, how is it going today?”

So who are Karma and Ann, you might ask? Karma is an adorable, frosty-faced Jack Russell Terrier/Beagle mix, and Ann is her owner. Together, they patrol the Buffalo Niagara International Airport as a therapy dog team. Most dogs you see in airports have patches on their harnesses saying “SERVICE DOG, DO NOT PET”... but Karma has a bandana on that says “PLEASE PET ME!” AJ met them earlier in the year during one of her trips to see Tyson on the road, and had since become friends with the human/canine duo. Ann always asked how Tyson was playing, and Karma always was up for a belly rub as the two would chat. Today, Ann was in for a treat, she’d never actually got to meet a professional athlete despite all her time at the airport.

Finally, coming out of the secure area, Tyson spied AJ sitting on the bench petting a dog.

"AJ found the only pettable dog in the whole place, that's so her!" Tyson thought to himself, smiling the whole way to her.

Putting his bag down, Tyson found AJ already clinging her arms around him for a tight hug.

“Hey Tys, this is Ann, and…”

Before she could even say anything else, Tyson was already leaning down petting Karma’s head.

“This must be Karma, I’ve heard so much about you already from AJ!” Tyson leaned up and shook Ann’s hand, “And you too, it’s nice to meet you!”

Ann was usually chatty as all get out, but she was in awe of the Buffalo Sabres player standing before her. Finally breaking her out of the spell, Ann finally was back to telling stories and giving advice on where to go get dinner for the night. After gabbing for a few more minutes, and a few more treats for Karma, AJ finally convinced Ann that there were probably more passengers and airport/airline staff that could use some Karma pets and kisses. Everyone parted ways, with AJ promising she’d be back soon to see them again.

Walking hand in hand to the parking lot, AJ posed a question to Tyson.

“So what would you think about going to Mexico?”

The gears were already turning in Tyson’s head.

#josty #play it cool #tyson jost #tyson jost x ofc #tysontuesday #buffalo sabres #colorado avalanche

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brainrattlers · 1 year

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Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (42/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count 3786

Warnings: This chapter is a little naughty. There is some insinuation of adult activities going on. Nothing graphic but, you've been warned (so I'll say 18+ just to C my A.)

Need to start from the beginning? Here's where it all began! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Want to catch up? Check out the Masterlist!

Author's notes: Oh geez, I'm sorry you all. I've been MIA for a few weeks. It's been a little crazy with work, interviewing for a job I applied for while I was in Buffalo, and just life. Finally got through this chapter, and am already working on the next to wrap up the season. Definitely not how the Sabres hoped to see their season end, but this is just the beginning for their team. (And I will say I'm nervous with Tyson going RFA this summer, there are a lot of if this, then thats which can happen and possibly cause Tyson to be with yet another team next season. I really hope Buffalo figures it out though, he's a good fit there.) I already have plans for Tyson and AJ's summer, so get ready!

Now where were we when I last left off? Oh, that's right, Tyson was sad AJ couldn't be in DC for his birthday, but AJ has some plans of her own.

*****

Tyson spent the week with a few things on his mind.

First, hockey, obviously. The Sabres being on the bubble of a wildcard spot. The team was working so hard, but still had some very off-nights that were diminishing the likelihood of them playing in the offseason, but they persisted. A week on the road kept Tyson’s focus mainly here.

Next was AJ’s lab results. She had another set run right before this roadie, and was waiting to hear back anything. Tyson wanted his partner in crime to be healthy for all the shenanigans he envisioned them getting into in their future. He also knew that it was bothering her simply not having answers.

Lastly, was his birthday surprise. Since AJ had told Tyson that there was something going down for it, “an experience,” he was told. He had no idea what she was up to, and frankly he was itching to find out. Was it going to be something ON his birthday while on the road? Was it going to be when he got home? He had no idea.

So his mission early on in the roadie was to find out as much as he can to piece it together… maybe AJ had talked to some of the guys on the team? He was going to find out.

AJ on the other hand, was busy working on trying to figure out the logistics of everything, which indeed include talking to a few guys on the team, as well as their significant others. The thought of starting a group chat came up, but it would seem weird if a few guys’ phones buzzed at the same time, yet Tyson’s wasn’t. For now she had to keep it separate.

Quinner: He’s asking again. Do I say anything?

AJ: He’s such a brat. No, not yet. Play dumb.

Quinner: Can do. What’s the word on my gaming rig?

AJ: Just waiting on the GPU to arrive, which is slated for tomorrow. It’ll definitely be ready when you all get back.

Quinner: Awesome

AJ went back to working on a PC on her desk, when her phone started buzzing again.

JJ: Guess what

AJ: I already know, apparently he hit up Quinn earlier. You have no idea what he’s talking about.

JJ: Got it

Sighing, AJ finally decided to give some sort of hint to Tyson so he’d quit annoying everyone. She waited an hour or so before sending out any crumbs of info.

AJ: Alright Jost, your birthday is tomorrow. It will be celebrated at a later date. Stop asking your teammates for clues (winking emoji)

Tyson pouted as he and the rest of the team were on their way to the arena, but was grinning on the inside knowing that AJ was up to something. Not only that, but she also was finding her footing more in Buffalo, getting out and about, meeting new people - not just his teammates, but WAGs, and just a few people she’d see around the neighborhood often.

When Tyson was on a roadie, and the weather was decent, AJ would walk down the street and snag a Beef on Weck from Charlie the Butcher. (This was probably her favorite Buffalo thing so far, she’d never had anything like it prior to moving there.) She’d sit at one of the tables in the lobby and people watch as she enjoyed her sandwich. A few people from the offices would come down at lunch time and start chatting.

AJ started recognizing some of the employees at the local market. She even started going to a bowling alley, getting picked up to sub for people missing on teams every once in a while on league nights. Feeling more comfortable being around strangers, she realized that some of her meds were finally starting to do their thing again.

Braving a bit of rain and snow, AJ finished up her lunch, and headed back. After checking the tracking on some computer part orders, she sighed and looked around. Something clicked in her head after scanning the living room, seeing the pile of laundry she needed to fold in the basket. Through the bedroom and into their walk-in closet, AJ found herself looking through her own clothes, and sliding hangers around of Tyson’s clothes as well. Grabbing a specific hanger, she dropped the garment on the bed.

Rummaging around in her dresser, AJ grabbed a pair black Culprits and tossed them on the bed. Pulling a couple bags from the closet, she set up her tripod and camera, making sure the memory card was not full. Lamps were moved around. Pulling up an app on her tablet, she set the scene, making sure she’d be in the shot correctly.

With a quick wardrobe change, finding poses that were sexy but still classy, and not ridiculously silly. were kind of difficult. AJ would tap the screen on her tablet, and try to pose quickly before the timer ran out. Locations were moved, to the living room, and the kitchen. After about an hour and a half, she gave up, having exhausted all of her pose ideas. A few minutes were spent editing each photo. Finally AJ gave up.

AJ: I need your help with something. Tomorrow’s Tyson’s birthday, right? I shot some photos for him while he’s on the road but I need help picking out which ones. So awkward.

Jess: Send away!

With a deep breath, AJ picked her top 10.

AJ: Alright, I might throw in silly too, but pick your top… 5.

<4 attachments><4 attachments><2 attachments>

Jess: Oh, wow, Tyson’s going to LOVE these! I’m going to say 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9.

AJ: You don’t think 7 is too much?

Jess: Nooooo he’s going to be all over you when he gets back (winking emoji)

Truth be told, AJ started daydreaming of Tyson striding through their front door with that determined, almost primal look on his face that usually happens after a roadie, or when Tyson was just in the mood. Being gently pinned up against whatever surface was nearest to them at the time was a common occurrence, with a few minutes of intense making out sometimes leading to more. It wasn’t uncommon to find a trail of clothes leading to the sofa in the living room or toward the master bedroom, which had to be retrieved later.

Tyson hadn’t even been gone two days and AJ was suddenly missing him a lot, longing for his touch, his facial scruff against her cheek. The feeling of his arms wrapping around her from behind as she cooked dinner… She sighed at the thought of laying in bed, arm around her as she rested her head against his chest, fingers playing with his small patch of chest hair. This was just as torturous to her as it would be for him.

It hit her at that point that they literally spent a month apart at one point, and she survived. A few more days wasn’t going to be the end of the world.

Thankfully, a shipment of computer parts came the next day, and AJ was going to be occupied the rest of the week… But not before sending Tyson a little impromptu birthday present.

Tyson’s birthday started with a few texts from family, and one from AJ wishing him a good birthday. But compared to the others’ texts, AJ’s had a bit more mystery to it.

AJ: Happy Birthday to my Maple Syrup Man! I hope you have an amazing day. While it’s not your actual present, I have something for you later.

Tyson: (thinking emoji) What is it?

AJ: Patience babe - you’ll get it tonight (winking emoji) Love you!

Tyson: Love you too!

With that little nugget of intrigue planted in Tyson’s brain, he was getting antsy as the team was traveling to DC. A group of the guys were taking him out to dinner when his phone buzzed in his pocket.

AJ: Hey Birthday Boy, message me when you’re free. And preferably alone. (winking emoji)

Finishing up installing the new graphics card into Jack’s computer, AJ was starting to fidget and get nervous regarding what she was about to do. As she started cleaning up the cables inside the case, her phone buzzed loudly against the table.

Tyson: Everyone just left, in my room by myself. So… what’s so important that I be by myself for?

It was time to draw this out to make him get a little more curious.

AJ: I just wanted you all to myself. How was dinner? Did you get cake? Or pie, as it is Pi Day?

Tyson: Dinner was good, had a pretty good steak. Now why do I need to be alone?

AJ: Cake?

Tyson: YES CAKE WHY DO I NEED TO BE ALONE? You’re driving me crazy over here!

AJ: I’m driving you crazy now? Just you wait… (evil imp emoji)

For good measure, AJ waited another minute or two before setting up the text with the photos.

AJ: Happy Birthday, babe <4 attachments>

<1 attachment>

Tyson’s jaw dropped when he opened the photos, finding AJ in various poses, wearing Tyson’s Sabres jersey and showing the smallest hint of her black boycut Culprits underneath. His brain definitely started short circuiting seeing AJ in the kitchen cooking, lounging on the sofa, one cute photo on the bed… but the last one of her on the bed definitely got his heart racing.

Nervous of how he’d react, AJ nearly dropped her phone when Tyson was trying to facetime her. She accepted the call.

“Holy smokes, you’re killing me over here babygirl…” Tyson’s eyes were dark. “I can’t wait to get back home… but at least I’ve got these photos to tide me over.”

AJ blushed heavily.

“This isn’t your actual birthday present but I thought you might enjoy them.”

“I’m going to be up for a while thinking about that last one, and definitely enjoying it. Might have to make that one my home screen on my phone,” Tyson got quiet for a moment. “It’s my birthday, and since you’re not here and I don’t get to have birthday sex ON my birthday, but… what would you think about maybe… over facetime, you and me? I mean you don’t have to if you don’t want to, but… it might be fun?”

The smirk and biting of AJ’s lip was the only thing that Tyson needed to know. It was always amusing watching him go from adorable and almost shy, to straight up feral. She saw him reaching for his earbuds immediately, and could hear that his voice lowered when he made his next request.

“Put the jersey on.”

And because this is a classy joint, let’s just say that AJ and Tyson had a rather exciting evening doing things that are… less than classy. (But fun.)

AJ woke up exhausted the next morning. She couldn’t even imagine how Tyson was feeling… but after watching the game, it might have been just what he needed as he scored an unassisted goal in the first period.

Finally at the end of the week, after a tough loss to Philly, Tyson was on a flight back to Buffalo and could not possibly be more antsy about getting back to the apartment. Texts were sent as soon as he landed, as soon as he was on the road, and one from the garage that he was on his way upstairs… requesting that AJ was in the jersey (again).

Just as she imagined earlier in the week, Tyson opened the apartment door, dropped his bag in the laundry room, and immediately strode into the kitchen to find AJ wearing little more than that Sabres blue jersey as she was getting a glass of water to take her nightly pills. Barely letting her swallow them and put down the glass, Tyson had already twisted AJ around to face him, lifting her onto the countertop.

AJ yelped in shock of how cold the surface was against her legs.

An intense kiss was shared, but Tyson was impatient. He pulled AJ down off the countertop, grabbing her hand and leading her to the bedroom. Unwrapping his favorite gift was the only thing on his mind that night.

With no practice scheduled in the morning, the couple lounged in bed, finally getting up late in the morning to seek out some brunch. The conversation over waffles was about what was coming up in the next week for both of them. Tyson had a number of home games, with one interruption of a quick trip to Long Island for a game there. AJ talked about how she was meeting up with a few new clients to work on setups for. The big thing she emphasized though was that the following Sunday (not tomorrow), Tyson needed to keep his night free. Yes, it was his birthday present, and no, she was not going to give hints. Also she pleaded with him to not ask his teammates any more questions.

The week was kind of rough on Tyson as he’d been scratched a couple of games. AJ was taking it harder than he was, but she couldn’t help but have flashbacks of his time with Minnesota again. Thankfully he was playing again by the end of the week. She showed up to the game against New Jersey, and watched as the team warmed up in their Military Appreciation sweaters. It’d been a minute, but AJ forgot how good Tyson looked in green. (To be fair, AJ thinks Tyson looks good in all colors, really.) The team was super intense during warmups, and barely did Tyson kiss his glove knuckles and tap the glass as he skated by AJ. Had to keep the tradition up though.

The next morning, Tyson headed to practice, and then off they went to NYC for their game against the Islanders that night. AJ spent her day finalizing plans and making sure everything would be great for Tyson’s present the next night. Reservations were made. Random texts were sent to not ping the entire group chat at once. It was a GO.

With a 2-0 win, Tyson got back relatively early, coming home to AJ watching KSU playing in the NCAA tournament.

“I didn’t know you liked basketball?” Tyson questioned as he unloaded his backpack from the super short trip.

“I don’t, but it’s where I went to school, and actually was working there before Nate convinced me to move to Denver. Just kind of a nostalgia thing I guess. First year in quite a while that KSU has had a decent team.”

Tyson flopped down onto the overstuffed sofa next to AJ, stealing a few pieces of popcorn from the nearly empty bowl. Unfortunately, the Wildcats just couldn’t come back from their point deficit and lost in the Elite Eight. Tyson had curled up and fallen asleep across her lap as she was playing with the short curls on his head in the last few minutes of the game. His features were serene as he snored lightly. Unfortunately though, because she wanted to go to bed, AJ was going to have to wake him up.

“Tys..” AJ whispered to not jar him awake, “Tys, babe, you gotta get up so we can go to bed.”

His eyes stayed closed as he mumbled something unintelligible.

“Tyson, hon, really we gotta get up, my foot is falling asleep.”

More mumbles, followed by Tyson burying his head harder into AJ’s lap, wrapping his arms around her torso. Clearly he was awake and faking it this time. His body shook a little as he laughed. Rolling off her lap, he sat up and sleepily smiled. Suddenly his eyes went wide.

“TOMORROW IS MY BIRTHDAY MAKE-UP!!! YEAAAAH! The sooner we sleep, the sooner it gets here!”

You’d think it was Christmas the way he was acting. Tyson ran to the master bedroom, and ducked into the bathroom to get ready for bed, leaving AJ just rolling her eyes at the absolute kid of a man she had. But it was one of her favorite things about him… he was an adult when he needed to be, but like her, wasn’t going to grow up otherwise if he didn’t have to.

That early Sunday was rough on Tyson. He went to the optional skate, antsy as hell in regards to not knowing what was going on. Kyle had texted AJ letting her know that Tyson was still sniffing out clues, but everyone was shutting him down. Both Kyle and Danielle were helping AJ put this all together, she probably wouldn’t have been able to orchestrate the entire thing. Thankfully there was nothing really physical that could be left out for Tyson to see, other than maybe a text message here or there… but AJ was doing pretty well keeping her phone on silent and on herself when Tyson was being snoopy.

AJ clearly caught him when he got home from practice, seeing if there were any signs of fun that was to be had that evening. After a quick nap, Tyson found AJ getting out of the shower (which was difficult keeping him from climbing into the shower with her, but they would definitely be late for the plans). She wasn’t getting super dressed up, just some jeans, a tee, and a warm hoodie. He finished up his shower as AJ put the finishing touches on her hair. Putting down the diffuser, she did offer him some advice.

“Put on something warm, let’s go for a little walk.”

Tyson squinted as he grabbed his Nike SB hoodie from the closet, pulling it over his wet curls. Grabbing his hands, AJ pulled him in for a quick kiss.

“C’mon birthday boy, let’s go!” AJ giggled as she pulled Tyson to the door.

The two walked hand-in-hand on Main Street, swinging their hands as they strolled past the Ellicott building, past Tesla Park, past Lafayette Square.

“Are we going ax throwing?” Tyson questioned, as they neared Hatchet & Hops.

“Nope, just a bit further!”

AJ wasn’t kidding when she said just a bit further, they stopped just past it, in front of a restaurant front blasting music. Opening the door, she led Tyson into Misuta Chow’s. The hosts greeted them.

“Has anyone for the Toasty Josty party arrived?”

“Ah, yes, this way,” the host led them to the back where tables and chairs were marked with reserved signs.

Tyson immediately recognized a few teammates and their significant others. Cheers for the birthday boy were abound as the couple sat down. A few more people showed up. Dinner and drinks flowed, including a special birthday mochi for Tyson. But the fun was just beginning, as the party moved upstairs to the arcade/bar/karaoke night.

It’s not surprising that the first person to get on the mic from the group was Skinner, not surprisingly an 80s pop song. There were a number of the group that went up and took their turn belting out a tune. Some were surprisingly good! Some were much better after they had a shot or two. Some… were just bad. Video games were played. Lots of smiles and laughs were had.

“Tys, you should go sing!” AJ prodded a bit, as they played Mortal Kombat against each other.

Tyson bumped his hip against AJ’s as he mashed buttons on the arcade cabinet making a combo that nearly took out AJ’s character.

“No thanks, but I know someone that has a beautiful voice that should go up there…”

AJ lost focus on the game as she blushed a little, and Tyson plunged his character’s sword into hers.

“Fine, but only because it’s your birthday, Josty.” AJ winked.

When it was her turn, AJ did a quick shot (and cheered on by the guys) as she took the mic, clearing her throat. Her eyes closed as she took the mic in her hand, the opening guitar notes of Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You” playing throughout the bar. A little unsteady at the start, her voice found its footing as her eyes found Tyson’s. The softest of smiles graced his lips as AJ’s voice flooded the room. A few surprised looks went her way as they were not expecting her to sing that way. Whoops and applause happened after she put the mic back on the stand at the conclusion of the song. AJ’s face turned a number of shades of pink to red as she quickly got to her security blanket of Tyson with his arm around her.

A few of the bar-goers, friends and strangers alike came by and high-fived or complimented AJ. Tyson just beamed next to her, especially when his teammates and friends said something.

“You know, that’s how I fell for her, she was singing while fixing, what was that thing again in the dressing room?”

“Access point.”

Tyson continued, “Yeah, Access Point. She was on a ladder, singing with her headphones in, and I was last off the ice, taking a shower and headed into the dressing room. Her siren song had me hypnotized in the doorway. And she twisted a bit to do something, saw me… and that's when she first fell for me… literally, down the ladder a bit. And as awkward as we both were… that’s when I knew she was the one.”

Tyson pulled her in and kissed the side of her head.

“Aww, babe, you never told me that last part. But wow, you left a LOT out of that story, that’s probably for the best,” AJ grinned.

A few “That’s so cute!” and “Adorable!” exclamations came from the significant others.

A few more songs were sang, more video games were played, and maybe another drink or two were had. AJ was definitely a bit more tipsy than Tyson, but he also had a game the next day and was behaving. Calling it a night, Tyson thanked everyone for coming out, and thanked AJ (who thanked everyone else for helping) for putting on the party.

The walk back home was pretty chilly, with a drizzle falling all around the couple. Tyson insisted on holding AJ’s hand to keep it warm, as well to make sure she stayed upright in case some of the drizzle had frozen on the sidewalks. Back at their building, he stole a kiss in the elevator ride up the twelve floors, which still tasted a bit of Jolly Rancher shots. Tyson pulled AJ in tight.

“Good birthday? You’re a hard man to shop for, you know that?”

“No I’m not!” Tyson defensively shot back while tickling AJ as she opened the door to their home, “But this was definitely one of the best.”

Read on, Chapter 43 is HERE.

#josty #tyson jost #tyson jost x ofc #play it cool #buffalo sabres #tysontuesday

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (38/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Warnings: A little bit of language, some implied naked shenanigans, but honestly I think we're alright.

Word Count: 3525

Need Chapter 37? https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-37n/njuzxoktjxn8

Start from the beginning at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Author's Notes: I'm BACK! Decided to hit up a few of the closer Sabres games to me last week, catching both the Dallas and St. Louis games. I think I'm still trying to catch up on sleep... but it was so much fun. The Sabres fans I met at both games were a blast to cheer with. If you happened to see Waldo (of Where's Waldo fame) at the Buffalo/StL game, you found me ;) Thank you all for being patient while I took a little break from writing. And It's nearly 3am so I'm clearly back to my old self - any typos are mine and I'll probably fix them in the morning!

So where were we? Ahhh yes, Tyson and AJ found out the apartment they wanted was available... but he also has a roadie coming up. Will that throw a wrench in the plans to get moved out of the hotel and into a new home?

The next few days were a blur as Tyson was alternating between home and away games, while AJ was finalizing things for a potential move to the new apartment. She had taken the lead on getting things set up, wanting to make the transition as smooth as possible considering it was the middle of the season - moving anytime is stressful. AJ wasn’t connecting the dots though that this is the man that flies all over the continent to play hockey, waking up in different cities, different beds, wasn’t a huge deal. She was probably making it out to be more detrimental to him than it really was.

But more about the apartment, as soon as AJ took Tyson to see it, he knew that was the one. The property manager hadn’t even shown them past the first two rooms but the giddiness on AJ’s face was enough to tell him it was going to be home, at least for now. The master bedroom was huge, with an en suite bath, including both a shower and a bathtub.

(“No more waiting for you to get out of the tub so I can shower, yeah?”

“You’re just as guilty of soaking in a nice hot bath. Don’t think I didn’t notice the missing bath bomb from my basket.”

“Can’t prove it was me.”

“Your legs and torso were slightly shimmery and you smelled of lavender, Jost.”

Tyson sheepishly grinned.)

There was a guest room in case friends or family came into town. Another room that AJ could set up her computer gear, and also work on some art projects. The two figured that a sofa would be super comfy in there as well, one that could turn into a bed for even more guests if necessary. The kitchen was more than large enough for the two of them to dance while doing dishes.

AJ’s favorite part was how many windows lined the walls. She already could envision stands and shelves of plants flanking them, letting the leaves soak up the natural light that flooded the rooms through various hours of the day. To the west, Key Bank Arena and Lake Erie were visible in the distance.

Hearing of her plans, he couldn’t say no. On top of it making AJ happy, it was a short drive to both the practice rink and the arena. It was a trendy, renovated part of town that was busy with restaurants and things to see and do. They’d be up high enough on the twelfth floor to not be bothered with the street noise. It all just felt right.

Needless to say, they signed a lease that day, and would be able to move in within weeks. This posed a small issue for AJ, but she wasn’t going to make mention of it. At least this time around, Tyson insisted on hiring movers to bring all their stuff up, especially with it being on such a high floor. AJ would just have to direct traffic and then unpack boxes, with all the heavy stuff being put into place already. She wasn’t about to argue about that this time around.

With a loss at home against Florida, the team hit the road for Chicago, losing in OT to one of the league’s worst teams. The next two games were at home, against the Islanders and Ducks. The first game was a win, with Tyson netting himself an assist. The next day found Tyson at practice, and AJ helping the movers get furniture put into place, and boxes all loaded up into various rooms. The remaining items at the hotel were starting to dwindle as AJ moved most of their belongings over.

Coming back from practice, Tyson found the hotel room missing AJ as she was in the process of moving some stuff the few blocks over to the new building. He sighed, looking at the garland and lights that still lined the ceiling of their room. Gently he pulled the hooks from the walls, looping the lights and shiny garland neatly and placing it in one of the empty bins. He honestly was going to miss it at the new place, even though that very same new place was home.

Even when AJ came back to pick up more stuff, the lack of twinkling lights reflecting against the walls made the place feel empty.

With most everything moved over, the last few things in the room were just pillows, a few sets of clothes, and the last few items needed in the bathroom. AJ had made mention it was going to take a while to get some stuff unpacked, and with Tyson going on the road here in a few days, that maybe they could officially “move in” once he returned. Her outward intent was to get most everything unpacked while he was gone, but that was going to be a little difficult as she actually had some plans already in the works for something else.

The two slept hard that night in the hotel, after moving and unpacking a few boxes, as well as rearranging some furniture. The next morning, AJ was back at it, while Tyson had morning skate before the Anaheim game. Taking some time off, she snagged a ticket and made her way to the arena to cheer on the Sabres with a 6-3 victory. Tyson had a pretty good night, another assist and some pretty good numbers in the box score.

One final night together in the hotel… AJ had issues keeping Tyson focused on getting packed up for the four game roadie, which would send him to Dallas, St. Louis, Winnipeg, and ending in St. Paul. Tyson’s interests were more about some late night shenanigans to literally go out with a bang before officially moving into the new apartment. While getting his backpack filled and his suit laid out for the trip, AJ was trying to secretly pack her own backpack, giving the reason of “oh this is my last bag of stuff to go over.”

Little did Tyson know that, while technically true, that bag was going to be making some of the same stops on the roadie.

That Sunday morning, Tyson had morning practice before heading to the airport. In the same time frame, AJ go the last of their stuff moved from the hotel, and she herself headed to the airport, boarding a different plane. She felt awful for what she was about to do.

AJ: Hey babe, I’m pretty exhausted and am going to crash for a bit. Text me when you land?

She wasn’t lying. The motion sickness pills she downed as she got to the airport were kicking in and she likely was going to sleep on the plane. But all the same, AJ felt a little dirty about it.

Right before takeoff, AJ’s phone, which was supposed to be in airplane mode (seriously, who actually puts their phone in airplane mode when flying?), buzzed in her hand.

Tyson: Sleep well babe, only a few more sleeps until we’re both back in our bed. Heading to the airport here in a bit. Ily

A smile hit AJ’s face, thinking about having a space that was truly theirs, with their own things, and room to move around, and could set up everything the way they wanted. As the plane took off, she fidgeted with the engagement ring on her finger, focusing on it, rather than the upward movement of the plane that made her dizzy. Once at cruising altitude, AJ indeed fell asleep to one of Tyson’s house mixes. It took the passenger next to her tapping her on the shoulder to wake her up as they were landing at DFW - what felt like minutes later, but really was hours.

Collecting her bag and trekking through the airport, AJ found her way to the Orange Line, and took the train into Dallas. It was a quiet day on the train, considering it was not a weekday. Watching out the windows, she took in views she’d never seen before. Hopping off at Victory Station, which spit her out right by the arena, leaving the rest of the way to her hotel as about a half mile walk. Checking in, she made her way to the third floor and faceplanted on the bed.

Tyson: On the ground in Dallas. Miss you already. How’s unpacking?

AJ looked around and saw her bag sitting on the ottoman in her room.

AJ: Honestly haven’t really unpacked much. Kind of relaxing at the moment honestly.

Tyson: Understand completely, no big rush. I think we’re going out for dinner. Talk more later?

AJ: Of course. Have fun! (heart emoji)

Looking at her watch, AJ was trying to figure out what to do with her evening. She didn’t want to chance somehow bumping into Tyson going out for dinner, but at the same time, everything nearby was stupidly pricey in her eyes. In a last minute decision, she put in an order online for Shake Shack, and walked to Crescent Court to pick it up. Thankfully, unlike the last time AJ was at Crescent Court with Jess the year before, there were no team buses or players around. With food in tow, she arrived back at her hotel, sprawling out on the sofa to enjoy dinner and a movie.

It was driving her nuts though knowing Tyson was maybe a mile away, but she’d see him soon enough.

With a few texts, both insisted they were needing sleep, and that they’d talk more Monday.

Snagging breakfast at the hotel, AJ contemplated what to do before the game that evening. Checking out what was nearby, she walked to the Dallas Museum of Art, taking in a wide variety of pieces by famous artists. At the same time Tyson was a half mile away getting ready for morning skate, with a strange feeling. He couldn’t pinpoint what it was, but something definitely felt odd.

Tyson missed AJ, but it wasn’t the same as other roadies. He had butterflies in his stomach for some reason.

After finishing up at the museum, AJ got in a nap before getting cleaned up and heading to the arena. There were a surprising number of Sabres fans at American Airlines Center. Getting down to the glass on the Sabres’ warmup side, AJ knew where Tyson would be warming up. She had a tiny sign that would fit in her backpack she traveled with.

The fans congregated together, chatting about where everyone was from and who everyone’s favorite players were. While she agreed that Thompson and Dahlin were great players, AJ made mention that Tyson Jost was her favorite. The guy with the kid next to her looked at her weird, but another person piped up, commenting on what a great pickup he was for the Sabres. It made her heart happy.

Looking around the end of the ice, there were a number of other signs for players, including a couple more for Tyson. Impatiently waiting until the 16:00 mark was tough for AJ, but the team took to the ice tossing pucks at Anderson playing in his 700th game. Her eyes followed Tyson around, where they did their initial drills. Tyson went to the other side of the glass, reading a poster another fan had, offering a choice of candy, probably for a puck. He skated back to the bench with something and tossed it to the equipment manager before grabbing a puck and starting his own stickhandling drill.

Not even paying attention, he drilled the puck into the boards directly under AJ’s feet and caught the rebound on his stick. Looking up, he saw a small poster, and then looked up even further to see who was holding it. The smile on his face couldn’t be contained as he skated closer, mouthing “Hey you!” as AJ gave a tiny wave. Leaning down, he got a puck on his stick and sent it over the glass to the kid directly next to her, fist bumping him through the glass. The butterflies in Tyson’s stomach from earlier now made sense.

The guy who previously looked at AJ weird for saying Jost was her favorite tapped her on the shoulder.

“What was that?”

“We’ve known each other since he played for Colorado. Thought I’d surprise him at the game.” AJ chuckled.

With warmups complete, and in fact, Buffalo stayed on the ice longer than the warmup clock lasted just to get under the skin of the Stars, AJ found her seat behind the Sabres’ bench. Luckily it was filled with other Sabres fans and she made some new friends that night. The game started off not so great with the Stars scoring within the first two minutes, but the Sabres fired back later in the first. The game went silent in the 2nd, but in the third period, the Sabres scored early to have a 2-1 lead. Later in the period, the Stars tied it up. Throughout the game, Tyson glanced back finding AJ cheering for the team in white and blue.

The Sabres held on to take it to OT.

“I’m standing up,” Dan, AJ’s new friend sitting next to her, stated. “With our top lines out there 3-on-3, this isn’t going to last long. We’re standing up.”

Everyone stood up behind the bench, which pissed off the row behind them, but it was well worth it. Power scored fifty-six seconds into the overtime period, giving the Sabres the win. The Sabres fans cheered, while the Stars fans were left sulking as they walked the stairs to the concourse of the arena. The team piled into the dressing room, and headed for the airport as they were to play St. Louis the next day.

Tyson: EGGO you’re crazy for flying out here! I love you for it though, made my night.

AJ: Crazy about YOU! Fun game. Wish I were flying with you tonight.

Tyson: Me too. When do you fly out?

AJ had to word this very carefully.

AJ: My flight is at 11:15. Figured I could at least score some breakfast before I leave (lol emoji)

Tyson: Text me when you land? We’re taking off.

AJ: You know it babe. Safe travels, love you!

AJ was asleep when the next text hit her phone, of Tyson landing in St. Louis. He was glad she seemingly slept through it. As much as he still loved getting to say “text you when I land” and then doing so, he always felt a little pang of guilt if she’d text back at 3am wherever she was in comparison. At the same time he did enjoy some of her sleepy text typos, and imagining her bleary-eyed in bed texting him back.

What did wake AJ up was her alarm so she would make it downstairs to, yes, get breakfast, pack up, and take the train back to DFW. Not thinking fully about the weather when she packed, as soon as she took a few steps onto the sidewalk of Harry Hines Blvd, it started raining, and she did not pack her umbrella. Walking under overhangs as much as she could, which was tough around the arena because there aren’t any, AJ was becoming more and more soggy as she reached the train stop. Thankfully she made it just in time for the Orange line back, and sat back as it poured down rain the whole way to the airport. Once through security, she sat next to a window with a mint hot chocolate from Dunkin watching the rain.

A quick text was sent as she boarded the plane, and was finally in the air. A bit later, she was on the ground again. AJ’s Lyft driver was awesome, the two chatted the whole way from the airport to her destination. However, that text she said she’d send was a little delayed.

AJ: Hey, on the ground. How was your flight?

Tyson: It was alright, got in around 1am like you saw. Yours?

AJ: Not bad. Hoped I’d get some sleep but didn’t. Oh damn it’s almost time for you to get ready to play, isn’t it? Kick some ass tonight, Jost. (heart emoji)

Tyson: Only because you said so. Going to miss you in the stands, last night spoiled me.

AJ: You’ll see me soon enough. I’ll be watching the game, cheering you on!

Tyson stared at the last message, getting that odd feeling he had in Dallas again.

“Surely she isn’t here… no… she went back home, right?”

A few of the guys in the dressing room noticed how antsy Tyson was to get out onto the ice for warmups. Kyle was giving him shit for the fact AJ was in Dallas to surprise him the night before, and how he was acting like his kids do when they are excited to be going out for ice cream. The feeling in Tyson’s stomach wasn’t subsiding. He was fidgeting with the tape on his stick waiting for the moment they could take the ice.

Keeping his normal focus was difficult as warmups began, and he started scanning the glass. There were a number of fans, both for the Sabres and Blues already lined up. With a deep breath he went back to doing drills, trying to push the butterflies down. Okie skated up along the boards and stopped, looking back and winking at the person behind him.

As the team drills wound down, Tyson went back toward the center line doing some stretches, when someone caught his eye. Squinting, suddenly his eyes went wide as he continued warming up his legs. Hopping up, he grabbed a puck to do his drills between the blue line and the faceoff circle.

Finishing up, he attempted to get the puck to hop onto his stick blade, but he missed not once, but twice. Looking up, his face was a little flushed as he smiled at AJ, still fumbling around. Reaching down, trying to just simply pick up the puck with his gloves, Tyson still was struggling. Finally with the puck in his hands, and his face now full on blushing, he got the puck over to the kids slapping the glass next to her. With a look back and wink at AJ, he felt like the luckiest man on Earth that his fiancee was at the game again, even if she weren’t behind the bench this time around.

There were definitely less Sabres fans at this game in St. Louis than in Dallas, but AJ made the best of it with her #LETSGOBUFFALO sign as she sat behind the Sabres Attack Twice goal. What made it even better was the 5-3 win over the Blues… especially with AJ’s history with games in St. Louis.

What made the night less stellar was that St. Louis was under a winter storm warning until noon the next day, and AJ’s flight was leaving the next morning at 5:40AM, with her Lyft coming at 3:10AM. She was terrified of one of three things happening:

She was going to oversleep, the original plan was actually to stay awake until her ride arrived.

Her ride was going to cancel and she would have no way to get to the airport on time.

The airport was going to shut down due to the weather.

Thankfully none of these happened, and she did in fact make it to the airport in time. After getting through security (being harassed by a rather rude TSA agent that thought she had something on her ankle, which, surprise, there was nothing but her ankle there), she made her way to Starbucks to snag a drink and prepare for the first of two flights. The snow was really starting to come down though and made her worried.

Just like Tyson’s gut was telling him something the previous few days, her’s was now talking to her.

Tyson and the team had flown out of St. Louis after the game thankfully, and he was safe on the ground in Winnipeg.

Knowing he was asleep, AJ just sent a quick note that she was at the airport, indeed going back to Buffalo, as much as she wanted to continue the roadie with him. She was nervous about the weather, hoping to make her connection as she was already delayed 40 minutes. The plus side, the flight wasn’t full and she ended up getting her own row on that flight.

On the ground in Dallas again, she was stressing hardcore about the connection, it was in a completely different terminal. But the flight deities smiled upon AJ that day and somehow getting out of the jetway and down the hallway, she found herself in Terminal B, right near her gate that had not yet started boarding.

AJ: Made my connection, heading home to Buffalo. (heart emoji)

Tyson looked sleepily at his phone screen with one eye, then put it back on the nightstand next to him. A warm feeling filled his chest upon seeing AJ call Buffalo “home.”

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Play It Cool #Tyson Jost x OFC #TysonTuesday #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (40/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count 4486

Need to start from the beginning? Here's where it all began! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Want to catch up on last chapter? Check it out here https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-39n/ibz3yvek72nz

Warnings: I can't think of too much. Maybe a little language.

Author's notes: Technically it's still Tyson Tuesday for me here in the midwest, so I haven't missed it! I think I'm just about caught back up, and needed something fluffy after that Sabres' loss tonight (ouch). Back to the story though... Roadie for Tyson, and it's also Valentine's time, to which both Tyson and AJ have a little something up their sleeves.

The weekend was dragging for AJ, who was reluctantly awaiting her lab results. The only thing that kept her sane (re: mind on something else that wasn’t her refreshing the lab results that hadn’t been processed yet) was that Tyson was home for a few days, which let them work on more unpacking when he wasn’t at practice. Their closet was filled with clothes, the linen closet full of towels and sheets. The kitchen was arranged, and the living room was starting to look comfortable to live in. Tyson found quite a scene in the guest room, with Maple and Panda spooning in the guest bed.

“Hey babe?” Tyson hollered from the guest room.

“Yeah?” AJ was on a stepladder, marking lines on the walls to hang some art, “‘Sup?”

“The bears are giving me some ideas.”

AJ finished yawning before she smirked, “Seriously is this the first time you noticed them? They’ve been that way since you got home yesterday, goof.”

Catching her deep inhale, Tyson continued thinking about the bears. He could see AJ’s movements slowing a bit, the fatigue she had talked about coming to the surface.

“Hey, you want to go take a nap? It’s been a minute since we’ve taken one together. No funny business, I promise.”

Looking away from the wall she was marking, AJ saw Tyson leaning against the doorway of their bedroom with his arms crossed over his chest. A smile overtook his face.

“What’s got you grinning like that?”

“I was just thinking about the last time I was in a doorway, admiring a pretty girl on a ladder. The one I’m looking at now is a lot more graceful, and is much better at playing it cool.”

AJ stuck her tongue out at Tyson, then sighed, climbing down off the stepladder. Putting her tools in the toolbox on the counter, she shook her head and smiled as she shuffled toward him. Grabbing her hand, he led her to the bed, where he kept his word about no naughty shenanigans. Instead, he pulled back the sheet and blankets, letting her crawl in. Finally comfy and curled up with her body pillow, Tyson slid in behind AJ, pulling her in close as the little spoon.

Before he could even get comfortable, Tyson heard the soft snores from AJ already drifting asleep. With a kiss on her shoulder, he snuggled in, ready for an overdue nap.

Unfortunately, it was short-lived as AJ’s phone blooped with a notification of a new email, stating her lab results were ready. Frantically opening the email, she clicked on the portal link to pull them up. Tyson asked if it were okay for him to see, if she was comfortable with it. As AJ nodded, he looked over her shoulder as she scrolled through the different tests and numbers.

The good thing about this is that the results gave info about what the numbers should be, and where hers were in comparison. The bad news is that by reading the report without a medical professional explaining it, they could only glean so much information from it. The report had a green box if the number was good, red if it were bad.

For the most part, everything was good… there were a few things that were minorly bad… and one section that was brutally bad.

Trying to understand it all, AJ figured out her iron levels were severely low. Not just like “Oh thats kinda low.” Like “holy crap how are you alive?” low. The odd thing though was that her red cell counts were great. She was iron deficient, without being anemic. She remained quiet, trying to make sense of what she was reading, until Tyson heard her huff.

“I guess now I wait to hear back from the doc… it is what it is, right?”

Tyson hugged AJ tight against him. “It’s fixable. I bet the doc will have an easy answer. Let’s not worry about it until you hear from her, okay?”

AJ nodded, but it still was unnerving, since it was happening to her. But she was going to just have to be a patient… patient. And thankfully, when she needed it, Tyson was the calming presence she needed, even though he seemed to be a chaotic ball of energy at times. He pulled her phone back out of her hands, and set it on the nightstand behind her. Gently rolling AJ over to face him, Tyson loosely held her close until he felt her body relax in his arms as she fell back asleep. He watched her slightly stir after he pressed the lightest of kisses to her forehead.

“We’re going to get you feeling better, I promise.” Tyson whispered.

While AJ snoozed, Tyson quietly snuck out and put one of his plans he devised on the previous roadie into action. Finding the bin he was looking for in the guest room, he grabbed the stepladder and a few other odds and ends on his way. Quiet as a mouse, he scurried around in a different room, and you couldn’t pry off the smile that was on his face. Once finished, he took a look at the space, and felt triumphant.

Sneaking back into the bedroom, he gingerly crawled back into bed, doing his best to not rouse AJ. He failed, unfortunately, but that was okay, it was getting close to dinner time. If she had slept much later, she would have been up all night. A few more minutes of quiet cuddling happened, when Tyson finally piped up.

“Dinner?”

AJ sat up and thought a few moments as she rubbed her eyes. Hopping up, she headed to the kitchen to see what could be made up. Grabbing a tomato, zucchini, garlic, and mushrooms from the fridge, plopping them down on a cutting board. Tyson made himself at home in one of the chairs at the island, watching AJ looking for a few particular ingredients. She pulled a box of Banza from the pantry, quickly followed by a bottle of olive oil. A little cream cheese, butter, and parmesan came from the fridge. Finally, AJ had Tyson toss her a lemon from the basket of fruit in front of him.

The vegetables were chopped, tossed in a little olive oil and placed in the oven. Tyson hopped up and got the kettle put on the stove with some water and salt, waiting for it to boil. After the pasta was added, AJ finished up a few little things like zesting a lemon, and getting her measured dairy products ready. After the pasta was drained, a drizzle of oil was added to the pasta, along with the cheeses and butter, as well as the lemon zest, stirring until the pasta was coated in the sauce. The veggies were pulled from the oven and stirred in.

A piping hot plate of pasta and vegetables was placed in front of Tyson, with AJ sprinkling on just a smidge of extra parm on top. Tyson waited for AJ to get seated before taking a bite, being polite. As soon as she was settled, he’d already dug in, looking at her in surprise.

“Why haven’t you been making this for me every day previously? This is amazing!”

He was already back to working on his bowl, with AJ just staring at him wide-eyed, chuckling.

“Um, thanks? I guess this one is going into rotation,” AJ smirked as she took a bite.

Tyson lucked out that night, as her recipe dirtied very few dishes. AJ was going to help but Tyson insisted he got them. In fact, he offered up the suggestion of maybe playing some video games while he finished up. AJ looked at him a little weird, but took him up on the offer. He took her plate and put it in the dishwasher as she hopped off her chair, and headed toward the room with her computer. They hadn’t yet figured out a good name for that room yet.

Tyson peeked around the corner of the kitchen into the hallway as AJ opened the door.

AJ’s eyes lit up, and she whipped her head back toward the kitchen, feeling Tyson’s gaze on her.

“You didn’t… when did you do this?”

The garland and lights that adorned their hotel room were along the edges of the ceiling, and the lights actually were scattered all over it the entirety, looking like little stars. AJ gazed around the room in wonder, turning toward Tyson who was already moving toward her to admire his own work.

“When you were napping earlier. I didn’t mean to wake you up when I tried to sneak back to bed, but… yeah. I just remembered how much you loved it at the hotel, and I wanted to recreate it for you. You still like it?”

Tyson found AJ already sitting in her desk chair, spinning slightly just looking at the ceiling.

“It’s perfect, Tyson.”

“That’s the first surprise. I have one more idea to run past you…”

Tyson pulled up a website on AJ’s computer, and showed a modular couch that would act as also a guest bed, but looked super comfy.

“You like? This way we can both be in here too, I figured we could call it the hobby room or something. Just our little cave when we don’t have guests. Pick a color?”

AJ picked the midnight blue velvet option.

Tyson pulled his phone out, and tapped away for a few moments.

“It’ll be here in about two weeks,” Tyson looked pleased with himself as he headed back to the kitchen to finish up the dishes while AJ took it easy for the rest of the night.

Things were starting to feel more normal in the new place, especially with Tyson having a game that next evening. Breakfast, morning skate, nap, game. It was falling back into place again. The afternoon was shaken up slightly though with a call from AJ’s doctor, explaining the lab results and what it meant for her currently - mainly taking iron supplements to replenish what she was missing, and then more tests in a couple weeks to rule out a few other things it could be. She was also told to keep eating iron-rich food as well. The doctor didn’t seem terribly worried at the moment at least.

(Tyson might have gotten a little excited at the news, hoping this meant he could grill up steaks for them more often. AJ just really doesn’t like steak, however.

“But you’ve never had one of MY steaks, babe.”

After begging and pleading, she said she’d try it.)

With the final game before the All-Star Game break behind them, Tyson and AJ had a week of freedom. Granted, he still got up, worked out with some of the guys still in town, and one day had a community outreach program with an area school, but most of the time was theirs. Less and less boxes were on the floor, and more and more things were put away. Photos and art were hung on the walls. Their favorite blankets and throw pillows littered the sofa in the living room. The new sectional sofa came in early, and the two set it up in the hobby room. Tyson flexed his muscles and helped AJ build some bookshelves for both the living and hobby rooms. Some evenings were spent with them lounging in the living room watching a movie, others were spent in the hobby room with Tyson practicing his ukulele and AJ playing something on her computer. One evening was spent trying to teach him how to crochet, it didn’t get very far as they ended up just making out under the tiny little lights on the new sofa.

With the bye week winding down, teammates were making their way back to Buffalo from exotic (and less exotic) locations. Practices were ramping up, and Tyson was away at the rink more often again. AJ spent the time putting some finishing touches on the apartment, including new curtains for the bedroom.

The first game back was ROUGH for the team. Tyson tallied an assist, but overall, it was a 7-2 loss that they had to shrug off as they were on a losing streak. The next handful of games would be a roadie in California, much to AJ’s heartache.

AJ pouted as Tyson packed his bag with clothes for a week.

“We’re missing Valentine’s Day,” AJ whined, “I got so spoiled by having you here for ASG break and now you’re leaving me.” She flopped on the bed, throwing a mock tantrum before rolling back over and laughing a bit.

“I promise we’ll do something when I get back. I do have a little surprise, but I can’t tell you what it is. Also… I know you actually like you time when I’m gone, you’ll find some sort of mischief to keep you occupied.” Tyson thought for a moment. “Hey, isn’t Jess’ birthday coming up? Maybe you two can do something together?”

Grabbing her phone, AJ pulled up the calendar that had both the Sabres’ and Avalanche’s games listed. She scrolled through a couple days to see who was playing when. The gears started turning in her head.

Those gears kept turning as Tyson left for the airport and was flying across the country.

AJ: What are you doing this weekend? Do you have some time off from classes/work?

Jess: Are you coming out to Denver?

AJ: Nope, but I have a crazy idea. What are you doing on Saturday?

Jess: No idea. Nate’s in St. Louis. I’m not working though.

AJ: What would you think about shenanigans in StL?

Jess: Day trip?

AJ: Day trip.

The women started looking at flights trying to figure out how to make this happen, especially considering the Avs/Blues game was an afternoon matchup. It was a very short flight for Jess, AJ not so much, but she’d make it work. The two would continue making plans the rest of the day, interrupted only by Tyson texting that he was on the ground in Los Angeles.

Tyson’s roadie started off on a less than stellar note with a loss. The only good thing is that they didn’t have to swap hotels to get to Anaheim for their next game, so the team was able to relax a bit on Valentine’s Day.

Part two of Tyson’s plan went into action when AJ received a message that she had a delivery at the front desk of the building. Completely unprepared, AJ saw a number of plants on the desk next to some bouquets of flowers. The flowers were for other residents, but the plants… all the plants (about 10 different ones) were for her. It took a couple of trips, but AJ got them all upstairs. All placed on the kitchen island, AJ took a moment to look at all of them, and found a card buried in one.

I couldn’t figure out which to get you, they all seemed like ones you’d like, so I got them all. I hope I didn’t go overboard! xoxo, Tyson

They were all beautiful, and all ones AJ would have bought as she does have a slight problem with getting too many houseplants. Some people do drugs, some people drink… AJ collects houseplants.

AJ: Tys, you really shouldn’t have.

AJ sat at the island, trying to figure out what she was going to do with all of them, when she got another message from the front desk that she had another delivery. This left her confused, because she definitely hadn’t ordered anything recently.

Downstairs, AJ found a man with a large cart and several boxes balanced on it. After realizing they were for her, he offered to help her get them upstairs and inside the apartment. They were rather awkward and heavy, so she graciously accepted the help, and tipped him generously after they were in the living room. Unsure of what to do with them, because they were addressed to her, but not knowing what they were, AJ just sat on the sofa staring at them.

Tyson: I know. But if tracking is right, it looks like something has arrived that should help.

Trying to understand what he meant, AJ grabbed the scissors from the kitchen and started opening a box. Inside were a number of metal poles and shelves. Finding the instruction sheet and parts, it was figured out that Tyson had also picked out three stands to put her plants on, in front of various windows in their apartment.

AJ: You really REALLY shouldn’t have, babe… this is too much. I love it, but… too much!

Tyson: I figured I’d get you something you could work on for a bit, building the shelves and all. I hope you have fun with it all this week! Happy Valentine’s Day! Did you ever figure out something with Jess?

The couple ended up facetiming for a bit, with AJ letting Tyson know what shenanigans they were indeed going to be up to. And surrounding AJ, he could already see parts of the first shelves being put together. If he couldn’t be there for the holiday, he was happy he could surprise her with things to keep her occupied while he was on the road. In a twist, AJ also told Tyson she had a minor surprise for him when he gets home later that weekend - nothing huge, but she thought he’d appreciate it all the same.

The rest of AJ’s Valentine’s Day was spent building shelves, after a quick detour to a home improvement store to pick up a few pots and bags of potting soil. Once the shelves were in place, she worked on getting the plants into their new homes in front of the windows where the sunlight streamed in. (And when it wasn’t streaming in, she did also mount some grow lights so the greenery could at least get some artificial light.)

Thankful that Tyson was three hours behind her, sending a photo of her handiwork at 10:30PM her time was still 7:30PM there.

AJ: You still shouldn’t have… but they look amazing. < 3 attachments>

Tyson: Love it. And love you. Heading to bed soon?

AJ: Yeah, it’s getting late. I guess the silver lining of whatever’s causing me to feel off is that I go to bed at reasonable hours these days lol

Tyson: Sleep well, sweet dreams (of me)

AJ: Of course. Love you too, sleep well when you get there (heart emoji)

It had been a long day, and AJ felt rejuvenated mentally at least, after getting her hands dirty building the shelves, and in the physical dirt while working with the plants. Simple things like that made her happy. Her mind wasn’t racing, and with a tired body, AJ fell asleep quick.

Feeling a little extra pep the next morning, AJ made it to the gym for a bit, but unfortunately pushed herself a little harder than she realized. In a way though, it worked out well because she ended up taking a nap most of the afternoon (thus testing out those new curtains in the bedroom). But it was also helpful because Tyson’s game in Anaheim didn’t start until 10PM for her. It was a good game too, with Tyson scoring a goal and an assist. The Sabres got their two points.

Crunch time was coming soon as far as what was being planned between AJ and Jess though. With just days to spare, the two finalized their plane tickets, as well as tickets to the Avs/Blues game. Jess had been talking about what a stressful week it had been so far, so she was anxious to get away, even if just for a chunk of a day.

Friday night, AJ couldn’t sleep, as she usually doesn’t before travel days unfortunately. Exhausted already, her flight left at 5:15AM, and with a layover, she ended up in St. Louis around 10:45AM. Jess had beaten her there, and already took the Metro down to the arena area, where it was jam-packed with people. Unbeknownst to either of them, Mardi Gras was taking place that day as well. A huge parade was getting ready to begin in the downtown area, and AJ was worried she wasn’t going to make it in time.

Thankfully, the two met up at Union Station, and started walking toward the arena. This was the first game AJ had been to where there were a SIGNIFICANT amount of people wearing the opposing team’s jerseys and colors. She figured it easily was one in five people wearing an Avs jersey. (Both Jess and AJ were rocking a 29 jersey. It seems like at least once a week or so they’d find something else they had in common. AJ always said they were twins, even if she were older, and Jess was taller.)

Grabbing some food, the two friends made their way to the glass for warmups. While waiting for the teams to take the ice, it was hitting that this was the first time AJ had seen the Avs in St. Louis - it’d always been Tyson’s team she’d seen there, be it the Wild or the Sabres (and felt weird that she had just been there a couple weeks prior as well!)... but was excited to see her team again, free of stress of who do I cheer for? It was clear she was cheering for the Avs this time around.

And once the teams hit the ice with 16:00 on the clock, She caught the glances and waves from a few players. One player AJ was trying to catch the attention of in particular was Nieto, but he was about as focused as Nate always is and gave no indication of recognition. The women did manage to make eye contact with Nate, but he was stoic as ever… can never really tell what’s running through his mind on the ice. Jess swore she got some extra meaning out of the way he glanced over. Per the old tradition, at least one player shot a puck at the glass directly in front of AJ to make her flinch and/or scream. She was never sure who started it, but all those games she went to while still living in Denver, AT LEAST one player, if not more, would do it. (Author’s note: I’d say it was EJ that started it, but it definitely wasn’t him that shot it that particular game considering he’s out injured.)

As the team headed back to the dressing room, AJ and Jess found their seats in 124, realizing they were sitting amongst some of the WAGs from the opposing team. Thankfully, no one really seemed to care (or notice even). The family sitting next to Jess and AJ did ask if they had traveled in for the game, and where they were from. They might have been some of the most genuinely nice people AJ had met in St. Louis, considering her previous run-ins with less than stellar fans at the Enterprise Center. (To be fair, there are crappy fans EVERYWHERE. But for some reason the awful ones seemed to find AJ there more often.)

While the score of the game was great if you’re an Avs fan, it was definitely still frustrating for a number of reasons - namely seeing Makar get hit in the head again, second time in less than two weeks (and ultimately being put on concussion protocol again). And Nate struggled finding the back of the net BUT it was also against Binnington. Somehow that goalie was able to get into Nate’s head. Thankfully the rest of the team was able to pick it up and get a 4-1 win.

The team headed to the airport shortly after media availability, as they had an early afternoon game back in Denver the following day. The women still had a few hours of free time before having to head back, and took advantage.

Making their way out of the arena, Jess and AJ headed to the Gateway Arch for some photo ops, as well as trying to figure out what to have for dinner. After a failed attempt to get White Castle (stupid card readers being down), and figuring out their backup plan of BBQ was thwarted as it closed early that day, AJ had the idea of dragging Jess to get Seoul Taco, especially as it was kind of sort of on the way to the airport, where both needed to head back to that night regardless. This plan also pleased AJ because she wasn’t able to snag some dinner there when she was there the previous month and was absolutely craving it.

Sadly, it was far too short of a day though. Even though they text all the time, and send each other memes and tiktoks, it still hurt having to head to the airport, splitting up with a hug and a “see you soon!” Depending on the playoffs though, AJ and Jess contemplated finding a game they could meet up for again, because it was ridiculous and fun to somehow cram it all into a day.

Before getting in the air, AJ let Tyson know she was heading home, sending a few photos of her and Jess being silly in St. Louis. She’d end up missing his game for the most part, but she knew they got another win. As soon as she was on the ground in Buffalo, and was able to get a Lyft back home, she crashed hard as the day took it out of her.

In true AJ fashion though, her body betrayed her, waking up an hour before her alarm was slated to go off. Tyson would be home later that day, and she was trying to surprise him with something. If you haven’t figured it out already, AJ equates food with love. So she got up and got dressed, heading to the grocery store to pick up a few things to make Tyson a nice homecooked meal when he finally got back from San Jose.

With all the prepwork done, and food simmering away, AJ fell asleep on the sofa.

A very tired Tyson drove back from the airport, and was dragging his bags upstairs. The click of his key in the door lock woke AJ from her nap. He opened the door, placing his bag on top of the washing machine in the utility closet. His nose took over, leading him down the hall and into the kitchen, where he could see AJ buried under his favorite blanket on the sofa, face barely peeking out. Looking to the counter and stove, Tyson’s eyes went wide and his heart skipped a beat.

“Tell me that’s your pot roast simmering in that pot…”

He could see AJ grinning despite her face being camouflaged by the blanket.

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Tyson Jost x OFC #Play It Cool #TysonTuesday #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche #NHL #imagine

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brainrattlers · 1 year

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Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (32/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Words: an even 2000. Short and sweet this week.

Warnings: Not today! I don’t think there is even a language warning this week, what is going on?!

Author’s Notes: Short entry this week... I’m getting to bed before 2am on a Tyson Tuesday - I’m so confused! (Also it’s a double header tonight with the Sabres playing the Kings, as well as the Avs playing the Flyers, so... long night.) What can I say about this smaller chapter? It’s been a little more quiet on the Tyson/Sabres front, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. He’s been playing pretty consistently, and even bumped up to third line (although I’m thinking once Skinner is back from his three game ban, Tyson might be put back on fourth line again). Either way it’s nice to see him getting ice time and special teams shifts! But back to the story... while I don’t have a lot of HOCKEY to write about, I can tell you that Tyson’s been seeing AJ a little mopey this December and he’s on a mission to get her into the holiday spirit. Chapter 31 can be found at: https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/702878949073682432/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-31n

Want to start at the beginning? Head over to Chapter 1 at https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/684079731435552768/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n

The next few weeks found Tyson traveling back and forth between Buffalo and wherever the Sabres’ schedule took him. In Detroit. Back home against the Avalanche with a loss. (The refreshing thing in this was it was never mentioned Tyson was playing “his former team” as he heard so much when Minnesota would play Colorado. Reporters were finally getting off the topic of him with the Avs and the trade before the Cup win. On the flipside, it was tough for AJ seeing him playing against “her team” still - Tyson and Nate taking faceoffs against each other, or Nate keeping Tyson from getting a shot off still felt wrong.) He wasn’t playing eighteen minutes a game anymore, but still a respectable thirteen.

Tyson wasn’t even mad he was on the fourth line. The Sabres have many levels of depth, and sure, just like any other team, the top lines were producing the most. But it was evident there was talent spread across all of the lines. On top of that, even if he made a minor slip up, the coaching staff wasn’t benching him for a game. The fans weren’t criticizing, at least not him in particular. It was a nice change of scenery from where he spent the first month of the season.

San Jose came in for a game, and AJ was ecstatic getting to see Matt for a few minutes after the Sharks’ morning skate. She wasn’t even sure she could pull it off, but it was nice catching up with her former Fortnite partner when she wasn’t playing with Nate. AJ wouldn’t deny it though, Dahlin absolutely demolishing Nietsy as he sprinted toward the goal later that night made her cheer ridiculously loud. (AJ did check in the next day with Nieto the next morning on Twitch to make sure he was truly okay.)

Another quick trip to Columbus, and back again for a home game against Pittsburgh, followed by a game in Pittsburgh the very next day kept Tyson busy. There had been some rearranging of lines, especially with Skinner’s unfortunate crosscheck that lead to a three-game ban. Tyson was finding himself upgraded to third line, slowly clawing his way up. Even if he got bumped down again with Skinner’s upcoming return, it didn’t upset him. He was still getting ice time, playing special teams, and taking face-offs.

With a few days between that back-to-back and their next game, Tyson thought it was time to get AJ more into the holiday spirit. Hotel life was draining on both of them, but it just wasn’t feeling like Christmas this year. Tyson’s Alberta Spruce tree he bought just a year prior hadn’t made the trip from Minnesota, where it was still boxed up in a closet - not that it would fit in the hotel room anyway. Either way, he was determined to get her ready for the upcoming holiday.

Instead of having the hotel concierge pick up groceries, after much insistence, Tyson convinced AJ to go with him to the grocery store closest to them after morning practice to pick up a few staples they were quickly running out of in the kitchen. AJ was looking at produce, when Tyson said he’d be right back. Turning the cart to the meat department, she spied Tyson coming back toward her, grin on his face, arms full of garland and Christmas lights.

“You know we don’t have a tree, right?”

AJ was confused seeing Tyson drop the shiny loops of garland and boxes into the cart, still trying to figure out what he was up to.

“I know,” Tyson continued grinning, “They’re already marked down though, just trust me.”

With a shake of her head in disbelief at what sort of mischief was likely going to go down, AJ squinted trying to figure out what he was planning. She inevitably continued pushing the cart to the frozen section, where they loaded up on a bunch of vegetables and proteins.

Returning “home”, the two unloaded Tyson’s SUV and headed upstairs. With the groceries put away, the garland and lights sat on the table, making AJ wonder more what the plan was for them. Feeling a little wound up and antsy though, she decided to hit the gym. It was the perfect time for Tyson to put phase one of his plan into action.

Finding some command hooks stashed in one of AJ’s bins, he started putting the removable hooks around the top of the walls. While he didn’t think he had quite the eye for design that she did, he was pretty proud of what he accomplished in the forty-five minutes or so that AJ was at the gym.

All the while, AJ was just clearing her head while hitting the elliptical machine for a bit. The Sabres had an upcoming roadie later that week, starting in Denver. She’d been plotting with Nate to surprise Jess with a visit and the two of them could go to the game. But following that game, while Tyson would be heading to Arizona and then to Vegas, she’d be heading to Minneapolis to pack up what remained of their life there. Laura was going to come in for a couple days as well before heading to Buffalo to spend a little time with Tyson and AJ. (It was still unknown if Kacey and the Grandparents Jost would be able to make the trip, but worst case scenario, they could meet on Zoom.) Once things would be packed, AJ would take what she could fit in her Soul and drive the two days back to Buffalo. The remaining items would be packed up by the movers, and put into storage in New York until they found a new place to set up home.

The idea of home was feeling a little off for AJ. Wherever Tyson was, was home. With the whirlwind of being whisked off to Minnesota, and then quickly being moved to Buffalo… coupled with the fact that Tyson becomes a RFA at the end of the current season, AJ was nervous to really find another place and unpack. Afraid of the unknown, a little bit of apprehension was felt not knowing if Buffalo would re-sign him, or if he’d be shipped off somewhere else again.

But what she did know for sure was that the coaching staff and reporters seemingly were happy with him where he was. (That was another feeling that felt foreign, but in a good way.) They couldn’t stay in the hotel forever, so AJ was going to just have to push the worry away and just live in the moment. Finding a real place for the two of them was creeping up on her to-do list.

With her workout complete, all AJ wanted was to get upstairs and take a hot shower to get cleaned up. Unlocking the door to their room, she found the main room lights/lamps turned off, but the room was warmly lit by hundreds of twinkling lights lining the ceiling, reflecting off of the shiny garland. Little dots of lights splashed on the ceiling and surrounding walls of the living room, and she could see them in the bedroom as well. Tyson peeked over the back of the sofa, taking in the sight of AJ looking around in wonderment.

“What do you think?” He couldn’t contain the giddiness in hoping she loved it.

It took a few moments for AJ to really process what she was seeing.

“It’s magical, Tys,” her eyes continued trailing around, trying to figure out how many sets of lights he bought. In fact, it hit her in a way she hadn’t expected, feeling warm inside, almost to the point of happy tears. Something felt familiar, normal.

Tyson barely heard the whispered “Thank you for this,” and let the smile overtake his face. Phase one of his plan was a success.

AJ came around and quickly kissed Tyson, knowing full well she needed a shower. Tyson scrunched his nose.

“Make it quick… I have another surprise for you,” Tyson teased as AJ was heading to the back to get cleaned up, “Change into something warm, we’re heading back out when you’re done.”

Trying to figure out what the surprise would be, AJ hopped into the shower for a quick wash and rinse. All the while, Tyson was having his phone find directions to their next destination that he hoped would really get her in a festive mood. He had her coat already out, and she found him on the sofa already in his black wool coat, ready to go. Helping AJ into her coat, Tyson then lead them down to get back into his SUV and let the lady in his phone navigate them to the surprise location.

Looking around, it was an area AJ hadn’t yet explored, but she saw tons of people milling about between vendor stalls and other exhibits. If the lights and garland in the hotel didn’t put her over the edge with happy tears, Tyson finding a Christmas Market definitely did. He remembered last year she had mentioned that a neighboring town to where she lived prior to Denver had an amazing Christmas Market, reminding her of where her ancestors came from. To find one that had so many of the things she had talked about, like food vendors that sold mulled wine and Christmastime sweets, other stalls that had handmade crafts, and all sorts of other treasures truly made him excited to share it all with her.

The only thing he was kicking himself for was not finding it earlier as he learned he could have rented a whole igloo for them to share and have some privacy, but maybe that would be next year.

Seeing AJ wander the stalls, getting excited and grabbing his hand to pull him to show something off and tell him about it was more than enough to let him know he did well in finding what would put her into the spirit. The two wandered the aisles, as the sun set and the overhead lights went on, lighting the way with strings of bulbs lining the rows. With the hands that weren’t holding each other’s full of treats, the two found a place to sit for a moment. Tyson grabbed two mugs of hot spiced apple cider from a nearby vendor, coming back to find AJ opening up the various packets to share things like Lebkuchen, marzipan, and meringue kisses.

The two sat next to each other on the picnic table, enjoying the treats and the company, until the wintertime chill was overtaking the warmth from the cider. AJ begged for one more lap around the middle vendor area as she wanted to go back and look at a particular vendor’s wares… or wears as the case may have been.

Finding the booth, she found herself letting her fingers run over the soft crocheted yarn that completed a slouchy beanie, but winced when she saw the price tag. (And to be fair, it was an absolutely fair price for the handcrafted item that took a lot of time and yarn to create, but AJ couldn’t justify it.) Without even flinching, Tyson snatched it from the rack and raced to the cashier, because he saw how much AJ’s eyes sparkled seeing the blue hat. (Also he thought the blue would be beautiful with her eyes as well. It all seemed to be meant to be.) After paying, he pulled the hat onto AJ’s head.

“Tyson, you really didn’t need to do that, especially after buying all these treats…” She knew she wasn’t going to win this fight though.

“Maybe not, but,” Tyson winked, “Gotta get you more blue stuff to wear to games anyway.”

The eyeroll and smile that followed from AJ let him know he won this little battle, and frankly, the smile she had on her face was totally worth it. In a place that was new and things unfamiliar, she was feeling the holiday spirit. Chapter 33 is up! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-33n/0upkv5ekm7ph

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Play It Cool #NHL #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche #Minnesota Wild #Tyson Jost x OFC #TysonTuesday

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brainrattlers · 1 year

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Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (34/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 6274 (I went a little overboard)

Warnings: Language. There’s adult naughtiness, so if you’re under 18, get outta here. It’s not graphic but still... get out. Holiday fluff too.

Need to start from the beginning? Check out Chapter 1 at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Just need to catch up on last chapter? Chapter 33 is at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-33n/roh2we9w75t3

Author’s Notes: I am reposting this because I'm getting the feeling my tags aren't working right. Testing something out. :)

Happy Holidays, readers! I’m hoping you’re having a festive season full of friends, family, food, and fun. Things got away from me, and then the weather that hit last week threw a wrench in the works for a LOT of people, myself included. Ended up having to rewrite things, and then I got stuck. That’s the hard part about writing sometimes... you have to come up with the ideas! I hope I did this justice, especially since I took a couple extra days.

Anyway, Tyson’s on the road, AJ’s in Minneapolis packing, and there’s a storm heading toward Buffalo. Tyson wants to bring AJ home for Christmas, but there are a lot of “what ifs” looming.

After a few hours of packing, AJ’s stomach alerted her to it being well past lunch time.

As if on autopilot, she grabbed her keys, and headed to the garage to retrieve her Soul and hit the road. Truth be told, she missed her car after driving Tyson’s so much the past few weeks. Hitting 94, she headed to St. Paul, craving Cossetta. Traffic was rough on Seventh, reminding her of the fact the Wild were playing that night, just two blocks down the road. Opting to take her dinner with her, she headed back to the apartment wanting to get as far from the Xcel Energy Center as she could.

It wasn’t that she was mad at the team, or the arena… There was still frustration with the management and coaching staff there, getting under her skin. She didn’t know why it was still bothering her when clearly Tyson was carving out a new home in Buffalo, now on the third line consistently. AJ really did need to learn to get better, not bitter. Minnesota was just a stepping stone onto bigger and better things, for the both of them.

Sitting on the sofa next to Maple, AJ looked at the clock on her phone. Tyson was in Arizona, and likely would be at practice, but it didn’t stop her from sending a quick photo and message.

AJ: Maple was a good messenger. I miss you too! We’re just chilling on the sofa at the moment, having some late lunch. <;1 attachment>

Putting on some music in the background, AJ got back to work. Tyson’s musical influences were creeping into her Spotify mixes, realizing that a few of his playlist songs were showing up in her Chill and Electronic pre-made playlists. Some of those very songs graced the speakers in this very apartment while cooking dinner together, low-key afternoons that Tyson read while AJ crocheted, and some intense late nights spent connecting on multiple levels.

Just like packing up life in Denver, memories came rushing back, even though their time there was short. While working on packing but really more reminiscing, the music was interrupted with a notification of a text message. Grabbing her phone, AJ smiled, but then frowned reading the words that popped up on the screen.

Tyson: I’m so glad Maple was able to relay the message. I told him to write it down because I’m pretty sure he would have forgotten otherwise. Skate went well. Change in plans though - don’t think Mom is going to make it to Minny to help. How’s it going?

AJ looked around and sighed, knowing an extra set of hands would be a huge help. In her heart though, she knew though this was the least she could do right now considering she still didn’t have steady work in Buffalo and Tyson was footing the bill on things. Granted, he IS the one with a $2M contract currently. But with Laura not there to help, it was definitely concerning AJ whether she could pull this off as the movers would be there soon, and how it would affect Christmas plans that she was working with her on to surprise Tyson.

Either way though, AJ was going to have to make this work.

AJ: I’ve got a ways to go in that case, but doing what I can. Maple’s just sitting on the sofa though not helping. Everything okay?

Tyson: I don’t know if you’ve been paying attention to the weather but they’re starting to say that Buffalo is going to get hit hard with snow, but don’t know how much yet. Can I call you when we get back to the hotel? It’s a lot to text.

AJ: Of course. Love you, talk soon.

Tyson: You’re the best, love.

Shortly after, Tyson facetimed AJ better explaining the situation. He was worried about her traveling too - if she left too late, she might get stranded traveling back to Buffalo. Taking a minute to film the apartment situation, she told him it would be close to getting it done before the movers arrived, and making sure she left early enough without Laura’s help.

The silver lining in this situation is that literally she just needed to pack up and clean a bit - and AJ was staying at the apartment so it wasn’t like she needed to drive back and forth to a hotel each day. Late nights, early mornings, it didn’t matter other than the last night. Once boxes were packed, she could grab the most important ones and stash them in her car and hit the road.

The two closed out the call pretty quick, knowing the time crunch.

AJ ended up chatting a bit with Laura that evening too, confirming the news from Tyson about not coming in. The two were trying to figure out what this would mean for the Christmas surprise the two were plotting and scheming to make happen - unfortunately it was a “hurry up and wait” situation not knowing what the weather truly would bring. The two promised to keep in touch to figure out if plans were changing. Both were optimistically hopeful, but knew the reality might not be that picture-perfect.

Tyson was still worried, constantly checking for weather updates. It didn’t seem to show during the game in Arizona though, with him scoring an empty-net goal to help the Sabres beat the Coyotes 5-2. Directly after the game, the team traveled to Vegas.

AJ: Not staying at the Wynn Encore, I’m assuming?

Tyson: Ha ha ha babe. You’re lucky you’re beautiful, smart, kind, and laugh at my jokes.

Working until nearly 2am and the exhaustion hit, AJ gave up on packing for the night. While the mattress felt familiar, the lack of all the extra pillows (there were two left behind from the initial round of packing) and the lack of Tyson left it feeling empty and cold. Soon enough though she’d be back in Buffalo with him, curled up in their giant hotel room bed. And hopefully shortly after that, they’d be moving into a more permanent residence.

After a few hours of sleep, AJ found herself up again, working on putting everything into organized boxes, labeled with what room the box would belong in, or at least if it was Tyson’s stuff, or her own. A few hours later was a good morning text from Tyson, saying the forecast was about the same at that point, but he was still nervous. AJ showed off the progress she’d made, clearing out two rooms already, leaving just a couple left.

AJ also vowed to herself she would have to get rid of some of her stuff at some point, especially if moving around was going to be a fairly consistent thing. She certainly hoped it wouldn’t be that way - while Buffalo may not have been her first choice, she’d rather stay there at least a few more years before being potentially sent somewhere else.

Not wanting to interrupt her more than he had to, Tyson recorded a short video and sent it to AJ while she continued on the mission. He sent it from the dressing room before the game started. It pinged her phone as she was stopping for a bit to get some dinner.

Opening the clip, AJ saw her man smiling, definitely taking his time to choose his words.

“Hey Eggo, you are such a trooper putting up with everything, me being me, moving, moving again. I’ve never once heard you really complain. And you doing what you’re doing right now? It made me realize that if the situation were slightly different, I wish you were here in Vegas because I’d take you to the place with Elvis and I swear I’d marry you right now. In the meantime, all I can do is promise I will make it up to you. You’re everything to me, AJ… I love you so much.”

His eyes were glassy, and AJ caught him at one point smiling, laughing, and wiping his eye. Tyson was becoming more and more open showing his feelings to her. She watched the video a couple more times, watching how the smile on his face got bigger when he talked about getting married.

For AJ, marriage wasn’t a necessity, she knew they were committed to each other. And to be fair, she wasn’t opposed to it either. But for Tyson and his old soul, there was something special, something extremely intimate and romantic about getting to say the vows, and signing on the lines of the license, even if the minister was an Elvis impersonator.

AJ: I can’t wait to see you in a couple days. Feels empty without you here. Got another room finished, only have the kitchen and the guest room/office left. If I were there, I’d gladly take you up on the offer to become Mrs. Jost officially. Your mom would kill us both for that though, pretty sure she wants to be at the wedding lol

With the game on in the background, AJ packed as much as she could, trying to not get sucked into the game too much. Close game though, with a 3-2 win over the Golden Knights. Quiet night from Tyson, but not from lack of trying.

Tyson: Getting ready to fly back. Weather is looking worse for Friday. Hearing that they’re contemplating postponing the game. Should know more soon. If you can leave sometime tomorrow, I think that’d be for the best.

Looking around the room, AJ could probably pull it off although the boxes wouldn’t be as organized as originally intended. That could easily be dealt with later. With the news though, she called it a night, and got up early the next morning to finish tackling the remainder.

With a handful of boxes in her own car, and the VIB buckled in the front seat (Maple IS a very important bear!), AJ was on her way back to Buffalo. On her way to Indiana, a phone call was made between Laura and herself, unfortunately calling off the Christmas surprise, which was not only Laura coming out to visit Tyson in Buffalo, but also getting Kacey and the grandparents out there as well - AJ and Laura were going to pay for the tickets to surprise Tyson. Unfortunately this left AJ with NO gifts purchased for Tyson, causing her great anxiety. She tried to tell herself it would be okay if it were late, especially considering the fact she’s now on her way back to Buffalo, where it sounded like the weather was going to be awful, no doubt.

Stopping in Indiana for the night, she checked into her hotel, and checked in with Tyson.

“Game is postponed Friday, for sure. So I talked to Mom though, and… since it’s an extra day, what do you think about heading to Edmonton for a quick Christmas trip? I can get tickets to fly out directly after practice on Thursday morning.”

As tired as she was, AJ still fought to keep the really frustrated heavy sigh from being heard over the phone. She really understood, he hadn’t seen his family all together since their trip over the summer. BUT - He didn’t know that her Christmas surprise was now canceled, and that she didn’t have a backup. Tyson didn’t see all the boxes in the living room ready for the movers to pick everything up. Tyson wasn’t the one driving through crappy weather heading back to Buffalo.

What he did know, however, is that when AJ gets quiet, something is amiss. The lack of response was a dead giveaway.

“Hey, is everything okay?”

The frustrated sigh couldn’t be held back, nor was the exhaustion fueled feelings.

“No. No I’m not. I’m just…” AJ trailed off, fearing what might come out of her mouth with her filter seemingly broken.

Tyson stayed quiet, letting her figure out her words to let him know what she’s feeling.

Another sigh happened, but he knew this was the one that always came when she was nervous to say what she was about to say.

“I… I’m just tired, Tys. Physically and emotionally. I was expecting some help with getting the old place sorted, and I know that isn’t anyone’s fault that the weather kept your mom from coming down. But I’m tired from that, I’m tired from driving all day in awful weather. On top of that (sigh) I had this big grand plan for a surprise for you for Christmas, but it completely fell through and I don’t even have a gift for you now. You’re a hard man to shop for, you know that?” AJ was chuckling to keep from crying at this point.

Yep. AJ was truly exhausted.

“Aww babe, I’m… I’m really sorry this is happening, if I had the power to change the weather, you know I would,” Tyson thought for a moment and calmly responded, “Would it be better if we just skipped going home?”

“That’s not fair to you. My gift to you was getting your family all to Buffalo for the holiday, but… this is still a way for you to see them all. I mean worst case, you can always go without me.”

That last bit stung. Tyson was sure that she didn’t mean it to hurt, but it did.

“It didn’t occur to me what all you’ve been up to the past few days especially without the help you were expecting. I forgot what kind of mess I left the apartment in. You are a fucking ROCKSTAR for putting up with all this and taking care of everything. That right there is more than enough of a Christmas present. But if I had my say, wherever you are for Christmas, I want to be there too. I’m not leaving you alone in a new city, in shitty weather, especially on Christmas.”

AJ was quiet, taking it all in. The silence hung, but Tyson wasn’t about to step in and say anything else until she did, and he was willing to wait however long it was. She was still processing everything in her sleep-deprived mind. Something finally clicked and she realized she was doing the thing again - overreacting and going worst case scenario without considering that it might not be that bad. And Tyson wasn’t going to hold it against her either, realizing he kind of sprung this on her last second as well.

“How about I get some sleep, and I do my best to get back tomorrow in decent time. I want to be with you for Christmas too. I just can’t promise I’m going to be the best company for a day or two as I recharge my batteries.”

Tyson chuckled and sighed, “One step at a time, and that first one is getting you back here. Text me before you leave in the morning, and check in when you can? We’ll figure it out from there, sound good?”

AJ agreed to the plan. She wasn’t sure what the next few days would hold, but was going to roll with it the best she could. And Tyson was going to make sure it was as easy on her as possible, realizing how much she deserved some time off.

After what felt like a few hours of sleep, Maple and AJ were on the road again, driving along Lake Erie heading toward New York, seeing the sights she had seen weeks prior driving the Grand Cherokee up. A few texts were shared before Tyson was on his way to practice, figuring he’d be getting home shortly before she would be. The estimates were right, as AJ texted one more time as she was getting parked.

AJ: Get the luggage cart and help me unload… Maple is cranky and needs a nap. *Maple is me.

With the Soul unloaded, and the handful of bins and large bear brought inside, all AJ could do was hug Tyson, grab a quick kiss, and crawl into bed for a couple of hours. But not wanting her to sleep all afternoon and then not be able to that night, Tyson woke her up before dinner. While he really wanted to take her out for a nice dinner, he also knew that she wasn’t going to feel like getting dressed up.

Instead he opted to order in some Chinese from a place one of his teammates recommended. As AJ came out of the bedroom, she was greeted by a smiling Tyson who put the Christmas lights on again, and set the table buffet style, complete with an order of General Tso’s for her, Beef and Broccoli for him, veggie fried rice, some egg rolls and an order of crab rangoon to share. Full plates in hand, the two found themselves on the sofa. Eating in silence, they watched an episode of Yellowstone. The second episode found them curled up with each other under a large thick fleece blanket, with AJ fading fast.

Clicking the off button on the TV, Tyson urged AJ to take out her contacts and come to bed. It didn’t take much to twist her arm.

Letting AJ sleep in, Tyson quietly slipped out in the morning after already packing his suitcase. Little did she know, but he also set an alarm on her phone for 8:30 so she could get up in time to get breakfast downstairs, and get packed. Little did he know, she was planning on getting up at 8 to get breakfast downstairs, get packed, and still try to find a gift before leaving for the airport when Tyson was back from practice.

Thankfully, inspiration struck while she was eating breakfast in the hotel lobby. Throwing on a hoodie and grabbing her keys, AJ made a quick stop at a place she knew that would sell what she was looking for. After spending a few minutes, she picked out which one she hoped he would like. And getting back to the hotel, she quickly packed her bag, stashing the purchased item between a layer of clothing - wrapping would have to be done when they arrived. With a bit of extra time before Tyson’s inevitable return, a visit to the gym happened, followed by a shower to relax herself before popping the Dramamine she’d need to survive flying and not being a nauseated mess.

The door lock clicked, alerting AJ to the arrival of Tyson. Seeing her backpack next to his suitcase, he knew she was coming with… which was good because he had already bought her ticket.

Opting to get a ride to the airport, rather than leaving one of their vehicles there, the two arrived with plenty of time before their flight. This was a smart move, everyone was freaking out with the storm coming in the next day and trying to get to their holiday destinations. AJ fell asleep on Tyson’s shoulder at the gate waiting for boarding, the motion sickness meds clearly doing their thing. When it was time to get on the plane, it took a bit of work, but he did get her awake and coherent enough to get seated. She was back out as soon as her seatbelt clicked. Tyson’s hands would be safe from the death grip of AJ’s at least this part of the trip

The flights to Edmonton were Buffalo to Chicago to Calgary to Edmonton, with that little extra bit of going through customs. With the time zone changes, the two were greeted by Laura at the airport just in time for a late dinner.

At home, Kacey and a couple cousins were already waiting, decorating the tree. Tyson insisted AJ have a seat on the sofa as he took their bags upstairs to his room. AJ took in the environment, remembering a few of the cousins from their trip up earlier in the year. Laura let AJ know there was pizza in the kitchen, if they were hungry. Tyson appeared again, and grabbed some ornaments to help finish the tree, excited for his favorite holiday with his family. With the tree finished, and a few pieces of pizza devoured, it was actually Tyson who threw in the towel first, admitting he was pretty tired with it feeling two hours later AND a day of travel. AJ was in agreement though, wishing everyone a good night as they headed upstairs.

This time around, it wasn’t Tyson trying to be sneaky and start something, he was legitimately tired. And if he were this tired, he knew that AJ was probably twice as. The two took turns in the bathroom, and cleared the bed of their bags while getting changed into pajamas. And just like last time, it was a tight fit with the two of them in the full-sized (much smaller) bed. But unlike last time, AJ felt a lot more at home and fell asleep quickly in Tyson’s arms.

The next morning, the Jost clan had breakfast, and talked about plans for the coming days. It’d be a short trip, considering Tyson had to be back in time to travel to Columbus for the game on the 27th. Updates from Buffalo though were starting to come in, and while it wasn’t bad yet, the forecast was grim. It was very up in the air what plans were, but as of right now, they had a red-eye to get back early on the 26th. But in the meantime, the plan was to have dinner at the Grandparents Jost’s home on Christmas Eve, and then everyone back at Laura’s for Christmas day.

Tyson thought it’d be fun to go into the city and test out how much AJ’d been practicing skating. Truth be told, she was getting a little better, able to stop, and take corners awkwardly. (Don’t tell Tyson but she actually got some lessons from a couple of the guys back in Minnesota.) He was so proud that she didn’t even fall down once, although she still looked like a baby deer at times. After skating, they decided to hit up a mall to wander around to kill time. The crowds of people were ridiculous doing their last minute shopping. This did make for some good people watching though. Dinner was catching up with some old family friends of the Josts.

Suddenly, AJ’s phone buzzed in her pocket. Checking her watch, a rather unexpected text was in her inbox.

Tyson: Hey baby girl, what are you doing after dinner? (winking emoji)

AJ looked over at him, quirking her eyebrow up. She knew what he was doing.

A few minutes later, Tyson felt the vibration of his watch against his wrist.

AJ: Sleeping? (evil imp emoji)

The texts were spaced out so it wasn’t obvious they were texting each other back and forth, and were doing their best to not be rude to the others they were dining with.

Tyson: I was thinking maybe something that might put us on Santa’s naughty list.

AJ: Is that so? Someone hoping to get lucky in his childhood bedroom?

Tyson leaned back in the booth, putting his arm around AJ, whispering in her ear.

“I want to do all the things that make you scream… but you have to stay quiet or else everyone in the house will know, baby girl.” He smiled as he rejoined the conversation.

A shiver ran down AJ’s spine and her breath stuttered a bit at his words hitting her squarely where he hoped they would. In retaliation, Tyson found AJ’s hand very high up on his thigh under the table, just enough to tease but not actually cause any friction.

The car ride home was thick with tension because they didn’t want to seem any out of the ordinary, that Tyson had been riling up AJ all evening.

Once home though, AJ apologized and went to bed early, citing that she thought a migraine was coming on. Tyson, being the gentleman he is, told everyone he was going to go check on her and excused himself as well. As the two were safely in Tyson’s room, AJ pinned him down in bed, seeing just how far she could get with him before he started getting too loud. It took a lot of effort to not give loud audio cues as to how she was doing. She ended up kissing him deeply, as he moaned and whimpered into her mouth.

Don’t think for a minute though that Tyson let her get fully away with it either. Clearly with the strength advantage, he turned the tables and was working the spot just above her collarbones and riling her up. The major difference though was that as quiet as AJ had been, what he was doing with his fingers that night drove her over the edge, and his other hand had to be put over her mouth to keep her from letting the rest of the house know what they were up to, especially considering she was “worried about having a migraine.”

Getting up from the bed, Tyson grabbed a small, shiny packet from his bag, and stopped to think a minute.

“Babe, get up.”

AJ was still in a heightened state of bliss and ignored the request.

“Seriously, I need you to get up a second.”

Looking toward Tyson at the foot of the bed, he motioned for her to get up. Once she was, he pulled the bed slightly away from the wall, knowing that what he was wanting to do might cause the headboard to rattle against the wall. That would be a dead giveaway.

Content with the distance the headboard was from the wall, a smirk graced Tyson’s lips.

“Now, where were we?” Tyson watched AJ crawl back into bed. “I think we were right about here…”

Tyson moved slow, knowing that AJ would be able to stay quiet only momentarily as the movements were exaggerated, creating a tease. He reminded her with a finger to his lips to stay quiet. When the whines, moans and whimpers from her were beginning to increase in volume, he moved with more intent, swallowing the noises coming from her mouth with his own. She had to grip into the pillows behind her in fear of getting caught from the noises that would come from Tyson as she would have raked her nails down his back.

The feeling of her fighting it, holding back underneath him was too much, leaving his body shuddering as he let go. Tyson reached between their bodies, using his fingers the best he could at the awkward angle to get her there too. Trying to stay quiet, she scrunched her eyes shut tight, and tried to keep the noise to a higher-pitched hum as she rode it out.

Collapsing against her, Tyson rested his head against AJ’s chest, listening to her heartbeat slow. AJ snaked an arm around him, lightly playing with the hair on the back of his head, feeling him calm as well. After a few minutes, an exhausted sigh escaped Tyson, realizing he needed to get cleaned up. Throwing on a pair of shorts, he first made a stop to the bathroom, and then snuck off to the kitchen to grab some water for the two of them. It had to look odd coming downstairs shirtless to the remaining family members still hanging out in the living room.

“Just grabbing some water so AJ can take her migraine meds.”

Tyson didn’t realize just how sweaty he was, so… yeah. It was probably pretty obvious.

“Mmhmm, g’night Tyson.” Kacey just grinned.

Back in his room, locking the door, AJ was curled up in bed wearing Tyson’s shirt. It was a sight he never grew tired of. After sharing the glass of water, Tyson played the big spoon. The little spoon could feel the big spoon around her giggling. Twisting around, she needed to find out what was going on. The grin on Tyson’s face was huge.

“That was the first time I’ve ever done that in this room. Glad it was with you.”

“Really Tys? You’ve never before in here? I mean I don’t want to hear about your sex life before me, because I just don’t, but… seriously?”

“Hockey always came first, and I wasn’t the babe magnet I am now. What can I say?”

AJ rolled her eyes and smiled. “Well I’m glad I was the first in that case.”

The two kissed a few moments, until AJ resituated herself as the little spoon. The two drifted off quickly in the warmth of the blankets and each other.

Christmas Eve morning, Tyson came back from his shower wearing a horrible (or awesome) sweater covered in little gifts in various colors. AJ had never seen it before, but it screamed Tyson. Dressed and good to go, the family went to Grandma Emily and Grandpa Jim’s to spend the day playing games and getting caught up on the adventures Tyson and AJ had been up to since they last talked.

AJ’s phone had been incessantly buzzing and had been ignoring it. But it finally got to a point where she had to check what was going on. A number of friends and family were wanting to make sure she was okay… because Buffalo had been hit hard with the weather. Extreme winds and snow caused massive power outages across the city. Tyson was getting similar updates, and he was never more happy than he was right then that she came with him to Edmonton. The news and video clips just kept getting worse and worse.

“So, what happens if you can’t get back to Buffalo?” AJ was legitimately concerned as the Sabres were set to play the Blue Jackets on Tuesday in Columbus. “I’m seeing that the Bills couldn’t get back to town after playing in Chicago. The airport is shut down.”

“I need to keep in contact with the staff, but hopefully we’ll be able to head back on the 26th as planned.”

Surprise plot twist, the airport closed down due to said power outages and snow drifts, slated to reopen on TUESDAY, which was too late for the whole team to fly to Ohio. The storm had now postponed not just the Friday night game, but Tuesday now too. The next game would now be Thursday versus Detroit IN Buffalo.

AJ was doing her best to stay unconcerned about the weather, but she was failing. Not knowing if he’d get in trouble for not making it back in time potentially worried her. Tyson made it out that it wasn’t going to be a big deal though.

To keep her mind occupied elsewhere, the family played some card games and ate all sorts of food all day. Tales were told, baby photos were shared (much to Tyson and Kacey’s chagrin). AJ and Kacey became the champions of four-player cribbage. Grandpa Jim and AJ talked music. Tyson watched, loving how well AJ blended into his family.

As it grew late, the family split up and went back to Laura’s home for the night. And just like the previous year, matching pajamas were worn by all in attendance. Laura even pulled AJ aside before everyone went to bed.

“Last year I told you that you were an honorary Jost. I’m so happy that you’ll be a real one soon enough, that I’m gaining an extra daughter.” Laura hugged AJ tightly. “Merry Christmas, AJ.”

“Merry Christmas, Lau… you know what? No. Merry Christmas, Mom.” AJ hugged Laura just as tight. It didn’t feel weird saying it either.

Tyson caught the whole exchange from the doorway of the kitchen, and the feelings he had further made it obvious that AJ was the one for him. She didn’t take him away from his family, she added to his family. AJ was everything he could ever want. He made sure to express those feelings to AJ as they curled up for the night, wearing matching fleece pajamas and all.

Unlike last year, Tyson was NOT the first one to wake up, in fact, it was Kacey. She wandered the house to see who was awake. As she wandered the hall, Tyson woke up, which set off a chain reaction of AJ then waking up. The kids all went to the kitchen, getting some caffeinated beverages going. Laura was the last to join in, the sounds of the kitchen waking her up. Shortly after, the grandparents arrived, a box of gifts in tow.

AJ felt awkward this year not having gifts for everyone as she did the year before - there was so much happening between the move to Buffalo and having to get back to Minny to pack up the old place - that she just didn’t have a chance to really go shopping. Thankfully though, Tyson had her back and had picked out gifts for everyone, putting both of their names on the “from” line on the tags.

Realizing she still had the one gift left in her bag, AJ had to pull a Tyson and throw it in a gift bag, and brought it out to the living room.

Tyson of course played Santa, handing out the stockings and gifts to everyone. This year, after last year’s overspending, Tyson did better and did NOT go overboard on gifts, especially since they’d have to pack whatever they received to come back on the plane with them. Tyson was still under the impression that AJ hadn’t had a chance to get him a present, so he was surprised to find the extra gift bag in front of him.

“Well open it, goof.” AJ pushed the bag toward Tyson.

Reaching inside, he found a new leather wallet with a crisp $1 bill in it.

“When did you find this? And… why… a dollar?”

AJ smiled, “ Remember when you were at practice on Thursday? I snuck out early. Also it’s bad luck to give someone a new wallet that’s empty… is that another AJ’s family thing like the pickle ornament?”

Tyson laughed and nodded, and then pushed a bag to AJ, which held a new Sabres hoodie for her.

Everyone showed off their gifts, thanking each other for everything. While the men cleaned up the living room, the women of the family all went to the kitchen to get dinner ready. As they did so, snow was falling outside, causing a white Christmas for sure.

This reminded AJ to check in again with what the situation was in Buffalo - and the situation was worse. Originally they were to leave early on the 26th, but then the airport said it was closed until the 27th, and now it was showing that it would open on the 28th at 11am. This was really causing some travel issues. AJ was trying to check flights to other nearby airports and maybe rent a vehicle and drive back, or fly elsewhere and finally get a flight back in on Wednesday once the airport in Buffalo opened again.

And of course, Tyson was just going with the flow. Concerned, yes, but it was all out of his hands. Instead, he saw the silver lining.

With not being able to fly out the 26th now, he had a plan that involved getting bundled up in whatever warm clothes he still had around his mom’s house, and finding some for AJ as well. This actually was easier for her than him - She had a new thick Sabres hoodie, and had packed some warm pants. Tyson ended up stealing another hoodie in her bag, an old Reverse Retro Avalanche hoodie. (Hey, a hoodie is a hoodie, even if it has a logo from two teams ago. Plus… the Avs were her team still, except when they played the Sabres.) After rummaging around in the garage, Tyson emerged with a couple saucer sleds.

“You ready to do this?”

It was easy to see how excited Tyson was, that childlike silliness back in full force. Grabbing AJ’s hand, he led her (and the rest of the family that was with them) up the street to a park with giant hills, perfect for sledding.

“I think I’m going to be better at this than ice skating, that’s for sure!” AJ laughed as Tyson handed her one of the plastic discs.

At the top of the hill, both situated themselves, leaving Kacey to push AJ, and Laura pushing Tyson, until they started sliding on their own. AJ started picking up speed and started spinning slightly, with Tyson close behind. The shrieks and laughs that were had came to a quick halt when Tyson crashed into AJ, leaving them both laying in the snow at the bottom of the hill.

The giggles started up again between the two. Tyson leaned over to check on AJ, brushing snow and hair out of her smiling face.

“Love you Eggo.” Tyson gave her a quick kiss, knowing the teasing from Kacey would start any minute.

AJ sat up, feeling her arms and legs to make sure she really was okay. Getting up, she challenged Tyson.

“Last one to the top of the hill has to cook dinner when we get back to Buffalo.”

With a wink, AJ started running, trudging through the snow.

“HEY NO FAIR you have a head start!”

Tyson was no match for AJ, especially when he playfully bumped into her and she lost her balance, falling into a drift. Again he checked on her and she pulled him down into it with her. They both finally got up laughing, and held hands (and sleds) getting back to the top of the hill.

Dinner would just have to be a team effort once they got back home.

Chapter 35 can be found at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-35n/v1c63xdvng6q

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Tyson Jost x OFC #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche #NHL

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (39/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count 4272

Need to start from the beginning? Here's where it all began! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Want to catch up on last chapter? Check it out here https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-38n/0i8kcvjvk4vq

Warnings: Language, Tyson being cute (you know, same ol' same ol'.) Author's notes: Hey all, sorry about the lack of update last week. Apparently when the Sabres have a bye week, I took it off too. (Real talk, stupid stuff like work and some personal crap came up and I'm still dealing with that. I had half the chapter written for last week and then battled some burnout for a bit. Took a breather to find some motivation.) Tyson's still on the road after AJ's roadie, but she's back in Buffalo, getting the apartment unpacked.

Waking up in Winnipeg, Tyson was conflicted. He had a little extra pep in his step at practice (or strides, as the case may be on the ice) as AJ was his last two games, but he couldn’t help but still wish she was going to be at the game the next night. He was glad she was safe on the ground in Buffalo though, probably up to some sort of shenanigans. It was one of the things he loved most about her.

AJ was dragging. She made it back to Buffalo in one piece after leaving a blizzard in St. Louis, and making her connecting flight just in time to head back. Her ride from the airport actually dropped her off at the hotel one last time, where she piled the few remaining items in their tiny space into Tyson’s Grand Cherokee, did one last sweep of the room, and checked out at the front desk.

The hotel was officially no longer home.

Parking the Jeep next to her own car in the building’s garage in their parking spots, AJ inhaled deeply. Contemplating a nap in Tyson’s vehicle crossed her mind, as her body was exhausted from the stress of the flights earlier. Finally though, AJ got the motivation to get out and start unloading the vehicle, and getting it all upstairs. After four trips up and down and up again, the vehicle was empty, and everything Tyson and AJ had was in the apartment. In boxes strewn everywhere, but in the apartment.

Grabbing her suitcase, she headed for the bedroom pulling out her ziploc bag of toiletries from the flights, and found the box that had the towels in it. Peeling out of her clothes, the hot water of the shower melted away the grime she always felt after a travel day, leaving her feeling loose and, well, still exhausted. Throwing on a pair of joggers and a hoodie, current time AJ was so happy that past AJ put sheets on the bed before she left for the roadie. Pulling back the sheets, she climbed into bed, melting into the feeling that was Tyson’s bed from Minneapolis, from Denver. It felt familiar, it felt right, other than it was missing Tyson.

With a quick snap of a selfie snuggled into the pillows and blankets, AJ sent it to Tyson.

AJ: Home, can’t wait for you to get here. <1 attachment>

Tyson: I will be dreaming of that tonight, and every night until I’m back.

The smile didn’t fade from AJ’s face as she fell asleep, hugging Tyson’s pillow close to her.

After snagging dinner with a few of the guys, Tyson headed back to his own hotel room, coming up with a few ideas of his own in regards to the new place. Just like the last place in Minneapolis, Tyson was letting AJ come up with how to arrange things - she had more of an eye for it than he did. But there were a few things that he wanted to make happen if he could. Trying to recall how AJ had her space set up as far as her computer gear goes previously, the gears started turning in his head as he pulled up the floorplan AJ had originally sent him when she first toured the building. Eyelids getting heavy, he opened a new note on his phone, jotting a few ideas down before giving up for the night.

Fluffing up the extra pillows on the bed next to him, Tyson curled up with them in the hopes it would feel like AJ back home.

“Just a few more nights…” Tyson whispered to himself as he drifted off, dreaming of coming home to AJ after this roadie.

Sunlight streamed in the windows on the east side of the apartment as AJ hadn’t yet hung curtains yet, and it woke her up. Looking at the clock on her phone that was sitting on a box next to the bed, she figured out she literally just slept thirteen hours. Considering her day previously started with an hour and a half of sleep and a ride to the airport at 3:15AM, she didn’t feel bad about it. Rubbing her eyes, there were a lot of boxes to go through in front of her. AJ detoured to get a quick breakfast at the E Cafe around the corner, and was now fueled to take on the morning.

First on the docket was setting up some tech so that the internet worked throughout the rooms. Plus, AJ was tired of listening to music on the tiny speaker of her phone. Within a few minutes, she had set up the modem and router, plugging everything in with a chuckle.

“LET THERE BE WIFI!” AJ boomed, seeing her phone pick up the signal.

Next up was getting a few speakers throughout so music could be heard in all rooms as she traveled around unpacking. With tunes playing, AJ stared at the living room trying to decide which wall the television should be. As she moved the TV stand, the bookcases followed to flank it. Struggling slightly getting the television onto the stand, the cables were hidden, and she turned it on to make sure everything was still working.

In doing so, a lightbulb clicked on in AJ’s head.

Heading to the guest room, AJ pulled a large object from the bed, and placed it on the papasan chair. From behind it in the kitchen, a photo was snapped. Looking at her watch, Tyson should have been awake and probably heading to the arena.

AJ: Well SOMEONE made himself at home. <1 attachment>

Tyson was grabbing a coffee at the hotel before hopping on the bus when his phone buzzed in his suit pocket. Opening up the message, he found Maple the Bear sitting in the chair, clearly not helping unpack boxes.

Removing Maple from the chair, AJ brought him back to the guest room, setting him down next to the giant panda bear that AJ had won for Tyson at the Minnesota State Fair. This gave her an idea for later, but for now, she had to unpack more.

Tackling closets and bathrooms, and finding homes for all of the kitchen gadgets the two amassed took up most of the day. A few texts were shared back and forth, giving Tyson updates on what all AJ was accomplishing, and asking for input. More ideas were coming into his mind, but again, would have to wait until he was back in town. One thing though, he could pull off that night.

AJ’s phone buzzed with a message that wasn’t from Tyson, and it wasn’t from Jess or Nate.

Hi, this is Kevin with Instacart, I have a delivery downstairs for you from Tyson.

Shaking her head, AJ threw her hair back in a messy ponytail and put on some shoes to get downstairs. Kevin was in the lobby, holding a couple bags awkwardly. She dug her wallet out to give the poor soul a tip for having to carry it all inside. Balancing all the bags in her hands, AJ took the elevator back upstairs and down the hall. Once inside, the bags were set on the counter.

Produce, vegetables, meats, boxes of pasta, milk, frozen meals, eggs, cheese… and beer. A six-pack of Blue Moon, to be exact. That made AJ smile, because she could definitely use one this evening with all the unpacking she’d been working on. As food made its way into their new homes on shelves in the pantry, or in the fridge and freezer, she contemplated what she was going to make for dinner, but honestly, really didn’t want to despite the sweet gesture of Tyson sending groceries to her. In fact, she hadn’t quite unpacked all the pots and pans yet, but was getting ready to as it was going to be nice not having to use the same kettle and pan over and over again like they did for months at the hotel.

Just as she was finally coming to terms with it needing to be done, the sound of AJ’s phone vibrating against the kitchen counter snapped her back into reality.

This is Tina with DoorDash, I’m in the lobby with something from Tyson for you.

“What did he do this time?” AJ stared at her phone, smirking as she headed for the door again.

The elevator whooshed down to the main floor, doors opening to let AJ see Tina standing near the desk with a large pizza box. Trading the box for a couple dollar tip, she saw that Tyson had Gino & Joe’s delivered. It smelled delicious as she made her way back up to the twelfth floor again. Opening the box lid, she gasped and giggled.

The pepperoni were in the shape of a heart, filled in with mushrooms. Upon further inspection, a note was scribbled inside the lid.

Hi Eggo, no need to cook tonight, you’ve been working hard. Love you, see you soon. <;3, Tyson

It was nearly 7:00PM, the day went by so fast. Tyson would be getting ready for the game against Winnipeg.

AJ: Tyson Jost, what am I going to do with you? I mean other than love you forever. Thanks for sending everything, especially dinner.

Tyson: I can think of a few things you can do when I get home (winking emoji) Love you

AJ: Kick some ass tonight, I’ll be cheering you on from the sofa with Maple!

Tyson was envisioning AJ sprawled out on the overstuffed gray sofa, box of pizza and a Blue Moon on the coffee table. All the snapshots she’d sent through the day put together a pretty good idea of how things were situated. During his warmup doing a little jogging before getting his gear on, he daydreamed of the next steps in his plan.

Back in Buffalo, AJ settled in with the pizza that she put in the oven to keep warm. Pre-game coverage played on the television. She’d forgotten how comfortable it was to have space, to sprawl out, and to have the big screen TV again - they’d become accustomed to the significantly smaller TV and sofa. Remembering the lamps were set up with wifi plugs, she asked Alexa to turn them off. The glow of the screen illuminated the pretty much set up living room, leaving her to enjoy the pizza and game.

In Winnipeg, Tyson was trying to find the back of the net with six shots on the night, but nothing made it in. Was a solid game for him though, and another W for the team as the points are starting to get important, being on the edge of a wildcard spot for the playoffs.

Between the physical exhaustion from unpacking all day, as well as having a couple beers, AJ’s eyes weren’t staying open. Putting the remaining pizza in the fridge, AJ found her way to her sink in the bathroom (she claimed it anyway, Tyson would just have to deal with using the other one.). After washing her face and taking out her contacts, she grimaced as her stomach wasn’t feeling quite right, although it was a similar feeling that she’d been having the last few weeks, chalking it up to stress and all the crud going around. Popping a few antacids in her mouth, she curled up in bed trying to get comfortable.

A game of Sudoku was interrupted with a notification on her phone from Tyson.

Tyson: One more stop, and I’ll be home. Miss you so much, can’t wait to see what the apartment looks like!

Seeing the words made AJ relax a little bit, her stomach unknotting some.

AJ: Can’t wait to have you back here, it’s lonely in this big space all by myself. Thank you again for dinner, and all the groceries. You’re way too good to me. (heart emoji) Sweet dreams babe, and safe travels in the morning in case I’m not awake yet (sleeping emoji)

Finishing up her game of Sudoku, AJ put her phone down on the box next to the bed, and slept off and on all night, eventually getting up around 6am. Digging her headphones out of her backpack still packed from her flight, AJ headed to the gym downstairs. Her stomach still didn’t feel right, but she powered through a few miles on the elliptical.

Water and crackers seemed to be what was on the menu for breakfast after she got back upstairs and took a shower. Food just didn’t sound good. Sitting at the breakfast bar, AJ scrolled through a few things on her phone - Twitter, Instagram, Reddit. It was too early to text Jess to ask about her thoughts with her stomach, so instead she looked up a few doctor offices in the area. It was time to be an adult and get whatever this is checked out. Once 8AM hit, she started calling a few offices to see if she could find a doc accepting new patients. Somehow she lucked into getting an appointment later that morning as someone canceled at a decently rated doctor in the neighborhood.

In the meantime, AJ looked around at the boxes in the kitchen still, so she started putting in new shelf paper in the cabinets and putting dishes and cooking utensils away. The empty bins started stacking up in the corner, and more floor space was found. And the alarm on her phone let her know when she needed to head off to the doctor’s office.

Halfway across the country, Tyson was landing in Minnesota, and the team made its way to the Xcel Energy Center to have a practice. It was a weird feeling for him being back after the way things ended. No awkward interactions happened though as the Wild were practicing at TRIA Rink that day. A few players asked Tyson for recommendations on places to eat, which he provided, but he wasn’t joining for the night. He had plans with a couple of his former teammates before things would get heated the next day.

It was nice to get caught up on what all had happened in the last couple months, swapping stories. Some of them may not have been Tyson’s teammates very long, but they were still friends all the same. Before he knew it, it was already 9PM, and he had wanted to check in with AJ before she went to bed. He had checked his phone, already seeing a note from her.

AJ: Hey babe, I’m exhausted and going to bed. Hope you’re having a good night, say hey to the guys for me!

Doing the math, she had gone to bed way earlier than the normal late hours he was accustomed to her keeping. Not wanting to wake her up though, he just let it go even though he really had wanted to talk before bed. But figuring unpacking was taking its toll, he pushed down any concern that may have been growing. He sulked a little bit still as he fell asleep in the hotel room bed in a city they used to live in months before.

AJ grumbled at the light shining in the bedroom as the sun crept up in the sky. Still laying in bed, she grabbed her phone, pulling up Target’s website looking at the selection of curtains. Her few plants would love the light from the east side windows, but she needed to be able to sleep a little later in the mornings than the sun was allowing her. As she scrolled through room-darkening curtains, she was interrupted by Tyson wanting to facetime. Before she answered, she scrambled to get her hair down and in relative place and a lopsided smile graced her face.

“Hey babe, how's St. Paul?” AJ was trying to sound chipper despite feeling off still.

Tyson squinted before smiling again, taking in a very tired looking face, “It’s good, hoping to have some good luck tonight. Are you okay? You went to bed early for you last night. I wanted to tell you to have good dreams of me.” He pouted, then smiled trying to keep the feeling light.

“Yeah, I think the last week and change is just catching up with me, I…” AJ didn’t want to worry Tyson, and decided to keep her doctor’s appointment to herself, “I think I just need to get caught up on sleep. But to do that I think I’m going to have to venture out to Target soon and get some curtains. This place has so many windows! So bright in the bedroom…”

An idea hit Tyson’s mind, but he kept up with the conversation. AJ got out of bed and showed some of the spaces she’d unpacked items in, giving an idea of how things were going. He was looking more and more forward to getting home, the place that she was working so hard to create for them to feel comfortable in.

“You know I’ll help when we get back tomorrow, leave some work for me!” Tyson was trying to delegate some of the unpacking duties to himself to allow AJ some rest.

While she tried to hide her bedhead, AJ forgot that the dark circles were still under her eyes. They were a little worrisome to Tyson. But knowing he was going to have to leave soon for a short practice, he encouraged AJ to go back to bed and hide under the covers. He was more than happy to come home and take care of whatever boxes were left in the next few days. Tyson had to make a compromise that he’d allow her to supervise at least.

With a sleepy smile and a kiss blown at the screen, AJ agreed, and closed out the call, finding her way to the kitchen to take some meds and then found solace in the sheets and blankets of their bed. Within minutes, she was sound asleep - it was the best sleep she’d had in days.

The bright light of day was definitely dimmed by the time AJ woke up, unsure of what time it actually was. Frantically searching for her phone that got buried under the blankets that cocooned her, she found it was late afternoon. Her nap lasted almost a full night’s worth of sleep. The bedroom was still out of sorts, so her task for the remainder of the afternoon was at least to get nightstands set up and unpack some clothes into their closet and her dresser. The thought of putting Tyson’s clothes away crossed her mind, but she figured she’d let him put things where he wanted. With most of the bedroom under control, it occurred to her that she had yet to set up her computer rig, which bothered her a bit. Normally this would have been one of the first things she’d set up, but she just wasn’t feeling it. She wasn’t feeling a lot of the things she was normally interested in lately.

Instead of ignoring it longer though, AJ pulled her desk around in the office, and started setting up monitor arms to mount the multiple displays for her computer. Her cameras and mic were set up. Finally, all of the cables were in place, and her computer was plugged in. Sitting down in her chair, something clicked and things felt right in those moments. Firing up some Fortnite, she lost a few hours, and didn’t realize it until Tyson was texting after the game.

Thankfully, she didn’t miss much. And honestly, not watching the game may have done more good for her mentally than she realized. Had she watched the game, she probably would have just gotten angry at the coaching staff again - the whole idea of “getting better, not bitter” was something she was still working on. Tyson wasn’t even upset at her lack of watching, it was a quiet night, and a loss in a shutout. No one was particularly thrilled with how the game played out. The only thing on Tyson’s mind though was getting home the next morning. A fresh start was something he was craving, and those grand ideas he had for the apartment and AJ just kept getting bigger.

It had been a long, emotional day for Tyson, playing back in St. Paul and all, and honestly he was ready for bed. And despite sleeping most of the day, AJ was yawning as well. Both called it a night, excited that with just one more sleep, Tyson would be on his way back to Buffalo.

While he was up early, AJ slept in again, as it was a bit of a dreary day along Lake Erie. Pulling herself out of bed, she made her way to the kitchen to take her meds again, and started picking up a few things around the place. Boxes were shifted around so that there was more of a walkway between rooms. Her Snow Queen pothos was a little dry, so she watered it a bit. Fidgeting, AJ took a shower and put on some clothes, realizing she’d been in pajamas for almost two days. The text she’d been waiting for finally came in.

Tyson: I’m at the airport, come pick me up?

Hopping in her black Soul, AJ floored it heading to the airport. It’d only been a couple days since she saw Tyson in St. Louis, but it’d been a week since they literally were sharing the same space. Navigating the maze of the airport pickup area, Tyson stood with a tired smile, backpack and Normtec bag in hand. Popping the trunk, he tossed his things in before climbing into the front passenger seat.

With a quick kiss, the two were off, heading back downtown. Making up for all the longing and lack of touch, Tyson’s hand never left the top of AJ’s as she held onto the gearshift. He noticed she didn’t look as tired as she had, a good sign. Pulling back into her spot in the garage of their building, AJ carried Tyson’s backpack, while he carried the few remaining items he had with him as they headed back up to the twelfth floor. Key in the slot, the door unlocked.

“Welcome home, Tyson.”

That glint of mischief in Tyson’s eyes was bright as can be as he set his bag down in the hall and picked AJ up, carrying her into their new space. She squealed, pleading with him to put her down. After finally doing so, he grabbed his bags and put them near the door, taking in everything that AJ had set up. Sort of keeping her promise, there were still a few boxes in the living room as well as the bedroom that needed to be put away.

After giving a mini tour, AJ flopped onto the sofa, watching Tyson still exploring the rooms. Her eyes closed briefly, until the sound of Tyson’s voice, laced with concern, brought her back.

“Hey Eggo? What is this?”

Taking a look at what Tyson was talking about, AJ saw him standing next to the breakfast bar in the kitchen, holding a bottle of prescription pills. The look on his face was definitely one of concern.

So much for trying to keep a secret.

Instead of covering it up further, AJ decided to just put it all out on the table.

“First, this isn’t your doing, this is me. Do not blame yourself when I tell you this,” AJ was worried about what Tyson was going to say, so she was stalling as much as she could. “But a few years back, I had some issues. Nothing BAD, but… you know how this past summer was hard on you? I had a period like that too in college. But where you handled it healthily, I… did not. My roommate found me on the floor of our dorm room crying, room completely flipped upside down. I couldn’t find stamps to mail something, and… yeah. I’m not proud of it. But my roommate and some friends convinced me to see a doc, and I got on anti-depressants. I was on them for a while and was doing pretty well, so I was able to get off of them. But the past few weeks, and again, this isn’t anything you did, but some similar feelings were creeping in, so I decided to go to the doctor about it, before it got to that point again.”

Unsure of what to say, Tyson just listened to AJ talk. When she was finished, he thought for a moment before opening his mouth.

“I didn’t even know you were depressed,” Tyson felt crappy. He couldn't even tell his fiancee was not feeling right. “Is there anything I can do? Or anything I should know?”

As she was owning up to things, AJ continued.

“As far as the depression goes, not too much. The meds will hopefully help get me out of this funk I’ve been in. It takes a couple weeks for them to kick in though. Mainly, just sometimes I want a hug, or maybe need to vent and someone to listen. Pretty much the same ol’ things I normally ask for. But I do have to tell you that there are a few other things going on too. Since I’ve been so tired, and not just from this ridiculous roadie I went on with y’all, but like exhausted tired - I’m having some labwork done to see if anything else is going on that needs to be checked into.”

Tyson nodded, realizing that he wasn’t imagining that AJ had seemed to be more tired lately. And to be honest, he was relieved she was being an adult and getting it checked out. The two talked some more about what she’d been feeling, and what the doctor said in advance of the blood work she had done. It was just going to be a waiting game until Monday when her labs would be completed and maybe would have some answers.

Apologizing for darkening the mood with all the mental and physical health talk, AJ tried to change the subject a little with some talk about some things she wanted to do eventually for the apartment. The smirk came across Tyson’s face as she showed him some ideas she’d found online. He made mental notes of what he was being shown. Those gears in his head kept turning.

Interrupting everyone's thoughts though was the sound of AJ’s stomach growling. She hadn’t eaten much and clearly it was trying to make that fact well known. Excited to do so, the couple finished putting away Tyson’s travel items, and headed to the kitchen to whip up a late lunch together. AJ had to show him where some of the pots and pans were, but he was picking up fast. Tyson made some chicken and vegetables as AJ made a simple sauce to go with it all poured over some brown rice. The two had ample space to move about the kitchen. AJ even had Alexa turn on some music so the two could have their first dance in their new home while the food heated up.

With Tyson holding onto AJ’s hips, and her hands resting behind his neck, the two just swayed and smiled, locking eyes until AJ rested her head into the crook of Tyson’s neck and shoulder. The feeling of his fuzzy cheek against her forehead made everything negative on her mind disappear as they lost themselves for a few minutes and a couple of songs. The sound of Alexa’s timer burst the bubble, but AJ was okay with it as the food smelled amazing as she grabbed the plates from a cabinet, and dished up some for both of them.

Lunch wasn’t eaten in silence, as the conversation led to them talking about the next few weeks. One more game at home, and then it would be the All-Star Game break. A lot of teams had their bye week before the weekend of the game. Instead, the Sabres’ bye week was after. A few of Tyson’s teammates were heading to the Bahamas. He’d been invited, but with all the commotion of moving, he decided against it. AJ thought he’d probably head back to Edmonton to see the family. Instead, he surprised even AJ.

“I was thinking, what about a staycation?”

Looking for Chapter 40? LET'S GOOOOO https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-40n/rn7wesgrzqa7

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Play It Cool #TysonTuesday #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche #Tyson Jost x OFC

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brainrattlers · 9 months

Note

Is there updates as to when we will get another chpt of Play it Cool? Miss you writing!

Hey anony! Thanks for checking in - it's been a while, and I'm sorry I went MIA leaving you all hanging. I haven't had a lot of downtime lately, and doing all the things I enjoy doing have gone to the wayside. I'm hoping things will be slowing down more soon so I can focus more on writing.

THE GOOD NEWS... is that I'm dogsitting for a friend this coming week, and I will get the adventures of Tyson and AJ (and some special guests) posted next week. It's going to be a wild summer for these two!

Masterlist - Play It Cool

#Tyson Jost x ofc #Tyson Jost #Play It Cool #Josty

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (27/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 2880

Warnings: Language, and some self-doubt kind of feelings, we all have our down days.

Looking for Chapter 26? https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-26n/j1y25470nkg4

Looking for how this whole thing started? Chapter 1: https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/onij73btqw05

Author's notes: It's 3am on a Tuesday, it must be me writing frantically to get the next chapter out! The start of the season was brutal for the Wild, and it is hitting Tyson a bit hard. AJ is right there by his side to get him through this stint. Also, both of them missed it, but these two crazy kids have been together for over a year now! Hard to believe that <3 Reminder that typos are probably there since it is indeed nearly 3am, and I'll get them fixed in the morning!

There were times that AJ hated the way she looked. She wasn’t a skinny blonde, she didn’t blend in with a lot of the WAGs. Since working with the nutritionists for Tyson, she’d slimmed down a bit, but genetics were just not making it easy for her to fit the profile that society made her feel like she was supposed to have.

On the flipside, well, first of all, Tyson loves AJ with all of his heart, so he loves all of her, regardless. But there are some days more than others that he really appreciates her body, even if she doesn’t.

That night was one of those nights.

AJ was learning Tyson’s tones when speaking, and that night was no different. Many nights, if Tyson called her baby girl, it was going to lead to something sexy, like him pinning her against the wall, and riling her up before dragging her to the bedroom. Or the sofa. Or whatever was closest.

When Tyson called her baby girl on the phone from the road, AJ quickly figured out that night was NOT one of those nights.

AJ quickly put on a tank top and sleep shorts, and grabbed her weighted blanket from the bin stashed under the bed. With a quick thought, she ran to the kitchen and started some hot water in the tea kettle and made some Sleepytime tea. The mug was left next to the key bowl on the table next to the door, where she was sure Tyson would find it. AJ knew this could easily turn into the night he was up all night overthinking things if she didn’t step in.

A few minutes later, Tyson quietly opened the front door, kicking his shoes off in frustration. Dropping his keys in the bowl, he saw the note propped up against the warm mug of tea.

Drink up, and come to bed. xoxo

A sigh fell from his lips, one of relief knowing that AJ already could tell what he was feeling. Slinging his suit jacket over the back of a chair, he downed the now-drinkable temperature tea, leaving the mug in the kitchen. He was shedding his clothing as he walked down the hall to the bedroom, finding AJ playing sudoku on her phone in bed.

She gave a soft smile as she put her phone on the nightstand next to her side of the bed. Pulling his pants and socks off and throwing them in the hamper, he found AJ pulling the sheet back, waiting for him with open arms.

No words were exchanged as Tyson crawled into bed, nearly naked sans his boxer briefs. AJ was waiting patiently as he gently curled up on top of her, pulling the weighted blanket up as he rested his head on her chest. His hair tickled her cheek as she nuzzled the top of his head while her arms wrapped around his shoulders, one hand lightly playing with the curls at the back of his neck.

The two remained like this for a while, quiet except for the sound of their breathing. Tyson had the perfect position to listen to AJ’s heart thump rhythmically, contrasting with the sound of her slow breaths. And this is why he appreciated her figure more than she did - her body was soft, welcoming, as he laid on top of her. The feeling of her skin against his was soothing. He felt like he was in the safest place in the world in those moments.

With his grip loosening on her body, AJ could tell that between the skin-to-skin contact, the warmth between them, and the tea, it was all kicking in and causing Tyson’s mind to hush. After kissing the top of his head lightly, he looked up with hooded eyes, barely whispering.

“You’re my everything.”

“Love you, Tys.”

Tyson gingerly rolled to the side of AJ, pulling the weighted blanket over the both of them. AJ immediately took on the role of big spoon, loosely draping her arm over his midsection. Tyson’s fingers intertwined with hers, and brought her hand to his lips for a soft kiss before drifting off to sleep.

The next game was two days later, against LA. AJ had a ticket, and found herself at the glass during warmups, holding her sign for Tyson, a cheeky, flirty joke. Clearly a few of his teammates saw it first, but as he finally skated around before his stickhandling drill, he looked up with the brightest hazel eyes. Kissing the knuckles of his glove, he fistbumped AJ through the glass.

In response, AJ mouthed, “Let’s fucking GO!”

With warmups ending, AJ found her seat, which she didn’t tell Tyson where it was. She snuck in row 3, in 117, right behind the bench. Starting again for the evening’s game, Tyson hadn’t gone to the bench as he’d be called out to center ice for introductions. But as soon as the puck dropped, and he played his first shift, his eyes found AJ’s. He just realized she was wearing his jersey, as her sign previously had hidden it. It occurred to him as he sat down on the bench that if she so chose, that name on the back of the jersey might sometime soon be hers as well. A goofy grin took over his face, but he knew he had to get back into game mode.

Another tough game, ending in a 7-6 loss.

It was another night of coming home, and just easing Tyson’s racing mind. The game was exciting as a fan - back and forth, but for the players it had to be exhausting and frustrating. Plus starting the season with two losses has to be disheartening. But AJ had barely beat Tyson home with game traffic, and he found her washing her face and brushing her teeth. Watching her do something so basic from the doorway grounded him, suddenly realizing what was important in life.

Sure, winning games with his team was important - it was his job. But that didn’t mean nearly as much as what he had right in front of him. He had the love of the second most wonderful woman in the world (AJ was fine being second to Laura, but don’t tell Kacey or Grandma Emily that AJ was in that position), someone who understood his quirks, his highs and lows. Someone that maybe didn't know how to handle all of that, but was patient enough to work with him through the rough patches. Hell, even the fact she was WILLING to be there despite knowing there were going to be days that were much harder than others was an absolute comfort to Tyson.

Tonight was a little different though, AJ had crawled into bed as Tyson was brushing his teeth. Waiting with open arms, she found he changed the narrative on the night. It was not the night where he needed the extra support in being held close. Instead Tyson wanted a bit more control, but not domination. He simply wanted to hold AJ, to focus on her comfort and feelings. He just wanted to be able to repay in kind what she did for him just nights before.

Tyson laid on his side, waiting for AJ to scoot in to be the little spoon. They shared a giggle as she shimmied her backside against Tyson’s front, and he lightly nipped at her neck in recognition of what she was trying to do. But both were far too tired to further make this a sexual thing, and they each knew it. Craving a little more connection though, Tyson gently urged AJ to roll over and face him, despite knowing that this pose would only last so long as he knew how warm it was to AJ. Just a few minutes was all he craved, a few minutes where he felt like he was shielding her from the outside world, creating this special place for just the two of them to be in. Her face nuzzled into Tyson’s neck, shoulder, and chest, breathing him in softly. Tyson tilted his head down ever so slightly to kiss her forehead.

The couple could feel the heaviness of the day drain away, losing themselves in embracing each other.

This.

This was what was important to Tyson.

After lasting in this position longer than expected, AJ did start getting a little fidgety, feeling a little claustrophobic. She surprised him though, as he rolled onto his back, she curled up into his side, resting her hand and cheek against his chest. Before he knew it, AJ was asleep, and he soon followed suit.

The early morning alarm on Tyson’s phone went off as he had plans to hit the gym. AJ was curled up still with her body pillow now on her side of the bed. Placing his warm hand on her shoulder, he tried to gently wake her up.

“Hey babe?”

“Mrrrarrrarrrrrg.”

“Heading to the gym, and then I have that bowling thing with the team later. And dinner with a few guys from the Avs since they’re flying in today… you good?”

“Hmmm mmm.”

“Okay, I’ll text you. Love you.”

“Rrrmmm loveyoutoo hmmm.”

AJ was back asleep before Tyson even locked the door as he was leaving.

Fortunately for her, she had an alarm set as she had plans for the afternoon as well. Dragging herself to the shower, and a mug of tea, AJ finally was awake. Lugging stuff to her car, she hit the road for about 45 minutes, finding herself at the Treasure Island casino. Getting in line, she chatted with a few other people, and finally was let inside.

Finding her seat, she sat down and put on her shoes, and found that two of the people in line with her were at the same table. After a few announcements, everyone met at the other end of the room. The crowd surrounded a doorway, and an emcee started announcing names and numbers… of the Wild teammates coming out in bowling shirts and shoes.

The team high-fived people in the crowd as they came out, but AJ kinda hid amongst everyone. However, as soon as the magic words were uttered into the microphone…

“And wearing number 10… TYSON JOST!”

AJ started cheering loudly, and her new friend from her table pushed her ahead of him so she could get a high-five. She might have mentioned that Tyson and her knew each other from Colorado, but the new friend did not believe it… Until Tyson came out high-fiving people, and then stopping directly in front of AJ.

“HEY! What are you doing here?”

AJ’s new friend had the biggest look of disbelief on his face at the reaction of Tyson with AJ… but AJ also failed to mention that Tyson was her fiance. But in all of this, Tyson was on lane 15, and AJ was on 20, paired with Gustavsson. The participants for Strike It Wild mingled for the next hour or so, getting autographs, photos, and generally just talking with players and other people there.

After the mixer, everyone bowled a game, and it was like a regular league night for AJ. On surrounding lanes were Hartman, Dumba, and Merrill. It was a very surreal experience to be bowling with all of these new friends she was making, both players and other participants.

“So I think you should ask Tyson out, he keeps staring at you,” Greg mentioned to AJ as other people on their lane were bowling, “I think he likes you. Also that’s a pretty big deal that you’ve come out from Colorado.”

“I don’t know, I’m not sure I’m his type. He sure is cute though.”

“If you don’t do it, I will ask him for you! Look, he’s coming over!”

AJ caught Tyson’s eyes as he was walking to the restroom, rocking those bowling shoes. She blushed a little, and then smiled back at him. After coming out of the restroom, he headed back to his lane to put his own shoes back on.

“Go! Go get that man, you two would be super cute together!”

She got up and followed him, hollering Tyson’s name to grab his attention.

“Hey you. You have plans for dinner?”

“You know I’m getting dinner with JT and a few of the guys from Denver.”

AJ nodded, “Oh I know. But Greg over there told me that I should take the chance and ask you out, thinks that you might be into me.”

Glancing over at Greg at his table, Tyson smiled, grabbing AJ and dipping her backward for a deep kiss. There were a few gasps from random tables, but the look on Greg’s face was priceless.

“I’ll see you later tonight, I’ll give you a call if we go out to get drinks.”

“Sounds good, tell Nate I said hi.”

AJ put a sad look on her face as she headed back to her table.

“That looked like it went well, why are you sad?” Greg was concerned.

"No go on dinner tonight..." She busted up laughing, having to spill the beans that Tyson was her fiance. Before they completely packed up to leave, she traded info with a few of her lanemates, and they agreed to meet up for a game sometime, or at least to go bowling again.

AJ headed back to the city, braving the sleet. Once safe back at the apartment, she tried to warm up as she only wore a hoodie out to the event by putting on some joggers and a sweatshirt. Tyson had texted her a photo of him with JT. She was honestly thinking she was going to stay in tonight, even if they all wanted to get drinks, as she was pretty tired. However, Tyson came home earlier than she figured he would, not that there was anything wrong with that.

Leaning over the side of the sofa, Tyson kissed the top of AJ’s head as she was watching an episode of Nailed It! on Netflix.

“I’m heading to bed, you comin’?” Tyson’s eyes were a little glassy, definitely looking like he was needing sleep.

AJ nodded, clicking the power button on the remote, and headed down the hall quickly behind him. Tonight was different again from the last couple nights, but probably the most normal? for them. Most nights were a few minutes of cuddling, then finding their respective sides of the bed. But it was always a thing that some part of them was touching. Tonight they were sleeping back to back, and Tyson was out quickly as he took a melatonin to help him get enough sleep. Monday was game day, hopefully the first win of the season for the Wild.

Another early alarm for Tyson, but AJ got up with him this time. Making a quick breakfast, the two talked about plans for the day. Morning skate for Tyson, and AJ had a couple clients to visit about computers she needed to fix. Likely Tyson would be home for lunch and a nap, then back to the arena. She figured she was just going to head directly to the arena before the game.

After a few hours of data backup, and killing off some malware from a few computers, AJ threw her jersey on and headed to the Xcel Energy Center. In the parking lot, she grabbed the markers that were hiding in her car’s glove compartment and made a quick sign for Tyson. Not her best work, but it would do, and she was sure Tyson would get a good laugh.

Inside, AJ met up with one of her new friends from the bowling event the day before, hanging out for warmups. On the other side of the rink, Tyson squinted to read AJ’s sign and blushed, smiling back at her. Occasionally she’d look over to the far end of the rink seeing the Avs warming up. It wasn’t until she got to her seat, again behind the bench, that she felt that someone was glaring at her.

Nate was looking directly at her, sneering.

All AJ could do was mouth, “I’m sorry,” and shrug. She figured he was joking, but it’s hard to tell with Mr. No Emotion MacKinnon. She'd have to text him later to make sure he wasn't actually upset.

A few other players from the Avs saw her sitting behind the Wild bench, wearing green. Mikko shook his head in disapproval. Sammy squinted, but then waved.

Tyson got his first point of the season, an assist on a Kaprizov goal. But, once again the opposing team prevailed, with the Avs winning 6-3. AJ rushed home, because she KNEW the next day was not going to be a pleasant one at practice. She also knew that this pending stress was going to hit Tyson hard. And it wasn’t even the coach coming down on them that was going to be eating away at him, it will be everyone realizing it isn’t any one person causing issues, it’s a team (lack of) effort.

AJ had the Sleepytime tea at the door, and the weighted blanket ready in the bedroom for when Tyson got home.

It was going to be another night that Tyson loved and appreciated the fact that AJ was curvy and soft.

Get on with chapter 28! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-28n/jj5zqc7cqk06

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Play It Cool #Tyson Jost x OFC #MNWild #TysonTuesday

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (30/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 4,237

Warnings: Language, and lots of anxiety, stress about the unknown.

Chapter 29 is at https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/700974148357390336/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-29n

Need to start from the beginning? Here you go: https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/684079731435552768/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n

Author's notes: Holy crap, in light of Tyson's *amazing* night earlier, I'm excited to post, but it isn't to the point of tonight (er, last night's) game yet. That will definitely be next week. I gotta say, seeing Tyson play over eighteen minutes (where three weeks ago he was playing eight, if he was even playing), taking faceoffs... and THAT GOAL... I'm inspired. (Good grief my fingers just typed sinspired, but hey, who knows what is coming up next week? 😉 But seriously it's nearly 2am, my fingers have a mind of their own.) I am so glad that Buffalo has taken a chance on him. The team and the coaching staff have awakened something in him and I cannot wait to see how the rest of this season plays out. Also, holy hell, how is this chapter 30 already?

With that... let's find out how exactly Tyson and AJ ended up in Buffalo.

The next few weeks were not easy for Tyson. It seemed like no matter what he did, it just wasn’t right. He had a meeting with Evason for a couple minutes, and came out looking dejected, like a kicked dog. He went to every practice, all optionals, and took extra time to work on things he was feeling weak in. It was a lot of long nights sitting in the pressbox while he was a healthy scratch. Through it all, he kept his “I’m okay” face on.

An article came out in The Athletic that pointed out how Shaw was getting his chance with the Wild, and how Guerin told him he was staying. Of course they were lavishing praise on Shaw - he really did deserve it - however it seemed quite callous to point out Tyson’s flaws. In the same article, an odd situation was described, a very much he said/she said, but more of Evason Said/Jost Said.

The coach described the situation as having met repeatedly with Jost, talking and working on things, watching video. They were wanting to build him up. Tyson’s side of things was that he had the one five-minute long meeting with the head coach and that was really it. Whether Tyson was misquoted, as maybe he had been working with other coaching staff, it sounded like someone was not telling the truth.

But it was clear as day - Tyson Jost was the Wild’s whipping boy.

Even the new guys that were sluggish and playing mediocre to poor were getting more accolades than he was. Even on the nights he was scratched and the Wild lost, the garbage fans on social media still called him out. He wasn’t born into the organization, and was merely adopted, thus… the whipping boy.

The pressure was getting to AJ too, and not just because Tyson was struggling once he got home. The nagging feeling she had before the trade to Minnesota was back. Similar anxiety hit when he got scratched. And it was hitting her HARD this time around. AJ was trying to keep her brave face on, she didn’t want to make Tyson feel worse because she was struggling too. Mentally, she was preparing for the worst, wondering where he was going to end up. Sending him down to Iowa would be a huge blow to his already fragile ego.

The day that Tyson actually got to play again, he met with the media after morning skate. It was blatant to her that the smile that graced his face was not a typical one. AJ was used to seeing the smiles that caused the corners of Tyson’s eyes to crinkle. It may have looked good to most who saw the guy who was just happy to be playing again, but to AJ, this one very much stopped mid-nose heading up to his curls. That smile never made it to his eyes.

He played, and it was even LESS time than the last few games - less than eight minutes total.

That night, Tyson got home and couldn’t sleep. His mind was wound up, replaying what all he did in the game. Fearing he’d wake up AJ, he just laid there, eyes closed, as the thoughts kept looping. What he soon figured out though was that AJ was having a restless night too, tossing and turning. He tried to ease both of their minds by curling up with her, but much to his chagrin, he just couldn’t catch the sleep he was chasing.

Silently, Tyson got up around 6am, finding that AJ was finally asleep, soundly. It was going to be a long day with the lack of sleep, but he was going to do what he could to make it good. Before making a small breakfast, he started a load of laundry, making sure he pulled out delicates from everything else. A bowl of cereal, some eggs and turkey bacon found their way into his stomach as he just stared out the sliding glass doors that opened up to Minneapolis. Something broke his trance, and looking at his watch, he realized he needed to get to TRIA rink for morning skate.

AJ was still asleep, but he leaned over and kissed her temple.

“Love you so much,” he whispered, “I don’t know where I’d be without you.”

Hearing the front door latch, AJ woke up, smelling the faintest memory of Tyson’s shampoo and conditioner. Her stomach absolutely was in knots. It got worse an hour or so later when she saw the tweet from Michael Russo, correcting what lines were on the ice at practice.

The original tweet said it was Dewar/Jost. It was corrected to just Dewar.

AJ’s heart sank into her feet. She wanted to throw up.

Immediately, she started working on the laundry in the dryer, doing more still. While that was running, AJ pulled some empty tubs from the closet, and started grabbing clothes from the bureau in the corner of the room. She was seemingly on autopilot, until it hit her like a ton of bricks and the tears started falling down her cheeks.

Tyson quietly unlocked the door to their apartment, finding AJ on the sofa curled up with her knees to her chest, tears silently streaming. His heart ripped in half at the sight of her surrounded by the tubs that they had just unloaded not 5 months ago. Feet with a mind of their own, he found himself already surrounding AJ, holding her tightly in his arms.

“How did you know? It hasn’t been announced yet…” Tyson trailed off as both of their phones started buzzing incessantly.

UPDATE: TYSON JOST (MINNESOTA WILD) WILL BE PLACED ON WAIVERS AT 1:00PM CST.

Shakily, the words slipped out. “I didn’t, but that feeling I had before you got traded here… and… I’ve had it for weeks now. It was really bad yesterday.” AJ couldn’t stop the tears. “I didn’t want to say anything to upset you.”

Tyson couldn’t stop his own tears at that point either. “You wouldn’t have upset me, I’m already upset with myself. With the coaching staff. Mainly with me.” He looked around at the tubs on the floor. “Are you leaving? Where are you going?”

AJ whipped her head up to look at Tyson as the words stabbed like knives in her heart.

“I’m going where you’re going, right?” AJ whispered, “If you clear waivers, we’re going to Des Moines. If you don’t… we’re going… somewhere else?”

It was in those few seconds, hearing AJ say “we’re going” stitched Tyson’s heart whole again. There were still tears, but it was of relief that she wasn’t leaving him. The tears slowed and stopped, but the two stayed put, clinging to each other as they themselves seemed to be the only stable things in each other’s lives right then.

Tyson didn’t ask what caused AJ to start panic packing, but he was in awe that she even had the intuition that this was happening (again).

The constant buzzing of his watch made him realize that his mom was calling. Putting Laura on speakerphone, the three talked about things and what may and may not happen. Despite being miles upon miles away, she was still the voice of reason, the voice of calm.

“You just have to see what’s going to happen. I know you hate it, but it’s just hurry up and wait. It’s going to be the longest 23 hours, but we’re all going to get through it. We’re a family, and this is what families do, we stick together and make things work. Do you need me to come down to help with anything?”

This was the first time AJ saw Tyson’s face have any sort of happiness.

“While you’re welcome to… I came home and AJ was already packing. She hadn’t even heard the news yet and she’s got like 3 weeks of clothes packed for both of us. I think we’re okay, AJ’s got this under control.”

While it stung a little that Laura’s baby didn’t need her help, she was also very relieved that Tyson had AJ right now.

The three eventually closed out the call, and an eerie calm fell upon the apartment as AJ sat folding laundry, and Tyson kept checking his phone to make sure he didn’t miss any calls. With all the laundry folded, and what might be needed put into a couple bins, AJ wasn’t sure what to do either.

To quote Tom Petty, “the waiting is the hardest part.”

AJ finally started getting to texts from everyone, Jess, Nate, Laura (when she couldn’t get Tyson to answer earlier), Danielle, Mel (that one was a little surprising, but they were still friends, all things considered), and a few others including her parents. Apparently someone told them the news.

2:00PM

Laura had been right, it truly was hurry up and wait. AJ swapped laundry again and brought the basket of warm clothes from the dryer to the coffee table, to mindlessly fold. She didn’t know really what to say or do, so she prepared… for Des Moines, or somewhere else.

Tyson just laid on the sofa, eyes pointed at the ceiling. Everything was out of his hands at the moment and he was trying to accept it.

3:00PM

Tyson grabbed his suitcase from the closet, trying to keep emotions in check. AJ had already pulled out some of his favorite things to wear to put in it. He smiled as he put the stacked clothes in the luggage, noticing her favorite Wizard World hoodie on top.

“You realize that’s your hoodie in my stack, right?” Tyson was curious as to what she was up to.

“Yep, but I think you’ve worn it more in the last six months than I have. Just in case something happens and we’re separated for a bit, I think it’ll do you more good than me.” AJ was trying to keep the feelings from spilling out from her eyes onto her cheeks. “Besides, you look better in it than I do.”

4:00PM

AJ was getting antsy, she took her anxiety out on the elliptical at the gym in their building. Her eyes started getting watery realizing this may be the last time she got to use the gym there, not that she particularly liked going to the gym to begin with. Blasting some tunes on her earbuds, she tried to forget the outside world for a bit.

Somehow in all this, Tyson fell asleep on the sofa, but made sure the ringer on his phone was extra loud. He didn’t want to miss anything important. He woke up to the sound of a very sweaty AJ coming back from working out.

She was kicking herself because she JUST did the laundry, and wasn’t thinking about this entirely clearly.

5:00PM

AJ got out of the shower, throwing on a hoodie and jeans. After starting the washing machine AGAIN, she found herself sitting at the sliding glass door, staring out over Minneapolis’ skyline. It was getting more difficult to keep her brave face on. A lot of texts were sent between her and Jess trying to make sense of the last 6 hours.

Tyson strummed away on his ukulele, trying to cheer up AJ by stumbling through some of the chords to “My Funny Valentine.”

6:00PM

“Did you eat lunch earlier?” Tyson questioned AJ, who sat on the sofa as she rubbed her temples and sighed.

AJ closed her eyes. “No. As soon as I saw Russo’s tweet… I just started packing.”

“Babe, you need to eat.”

“I’m fine.”

“No, you’re not. Put your shoes on, we’re getting dinner.”

AJ grudgingly put on a pair of Chucks, and Tyson grabbed her hand, hauling her down the hallway toward the elevator. After pressing the garage floor button, Tyson wrapped his arms around her holding her tight. A little bit of stress left AJ when she felt his lips against her temple.

The two hit the road, but some of that stress came back as they neared Xcel.

“Remember where I first took you to dinner after you moved in? That’s how we started here, that’s how we’re going out. Also I know how much you love the Marsala.”

Tyson parked the Grand Cherokee in the garage just off of 7th. They walked hand in hand, and he opened the door to Cossetta for AJ.

7:00PM

Tyson ordered the Lasagna Al Forno, and AJ indeed ordered the Marsala Chicken. Trays in hand, they found a quiet corner to eat in. He even picked up a cannoli for them to share, just like their first dinner out as newly minted residents of Minneapolis.

“You know things are going to be alright, yeah?”

AJ picked at the mushrooms on her plate and grimaced.

“I mean it. I’m nervous too, fuck I still feel like shit it even got to this point. But… maybe it’s good. I go to Iowa, maybe they can figure out where I’m struggling. And you said you have friends in Des Moines?”

She cringed at the idea of Des Moines, but Tyson was indeed correct. “Yeah, I do, Andrew and Tina are there… Ryan and Emily… have a little US Air Guitar reunion I guess.”

“Hold up, what?” Tyson was confused by what he just heard. He knew those words, just not necessarily in that order. “US… Air… Guitar?”

Whether Tyson meant to or not, AJ was out of her thoughts and suddenly was excited.

“Wait, wait, have… I… never told you I’m a professional air guitarist?” AJ giggled at the blank stare of disbelief on Tyson’s face. “It’s a thing. There’s an Air Guitar Canada even. I’ve been doing it for years, although after the knee issues I had to sit back, but I still help out with regional qualifiers and stuff. Oh yeah, there are regionals. And then if you win at Regionals, you go onto Nationals. But there is also a Dark Horse competition to get to Nationals! And if you win Nationals, you go onto the WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP!!! It’s in Oulu Finland, end of August. Huge deal.”

AJ went on and on about how the competitions work, how they score like figure skating or gymnastics on a scale of 4.0 to 6.0, how you can only have your air guitar because a prop used as a guitar will get you disqualified. How everyone has their own persona, alter ego if you will.

“How did I not know this about you? That’s kinda…” Tyson trailed off.

AJ got worried to hear what he was about to say.

“... badass.”

The laugh couldn’t be contained, and AJ was relieved to hear what he finished his sentence with.

“I’ll have to show you some moves sometime. Just… don’t look me up on YouTube. Not that there are videos of my performances or anything…”

“Oh I’m looking them up. And you said there is an Air Guitar Canada? Maybe when you have dual citizenship,” Tyson’s eyes were nearly twinkling at the thought, “You can compete for Canada!”

AJ rolled her eyes and smiled.

Happy that AJ was out of her funk, if only for a few minutes, Tyson watched her dunk her breadstick in the marsala sauce and eat the remainder of the mushrooms. And being gag-inducingly cute, he fed her bites of the cannoli, alternating with himself.

After dropping off their trays, they walked back to the garage in much better spirits than they had arrived in. AJ still was a little wistful, realizing that they weren’t going to go back there again anytime soon. Tyson held her hand as he drove back, squeezing it when her mind seemed to drift too far away.

9:00PM

With how mentally draining the day was, the two brushed their teeth, and crawled into bed. Nervous and hopeful were pretty much the two emotions that were hitting the hardest. AJ was getting used to the idea of Des Moines though. And who knows, he could get called back up.

Tyson was focused on simply breathing. Again, it was completely out of his hands, there was no sense in dwelling on it when he had no idea what was going to happen. His mental approach was so much stronger than it was just a few months earlier. He was absolutely AJ’s rock at that point. Knowing that she was still a little frazzled, instead of little/big spoons, Tyson simply hugged AJ in bed until it was uncomfortable for them.

He cracked first - mainly because somehow AJ fell asleep first. Tyson carefully pulled his arm out from under her, trying to keep her from waking.

It was pretty much too late for news to come in, so he turned down the volume of his phone. The intention was to wake up early though, as something big could happen once the sun came up.

6:22AM

Tyson gave up on sleeping. He had dozed off and on all night. The calm, cool exterior he had earlier was fading, and showed the anxiety underneath as he woke up every couple hours. Grabbing his running shoes, he left a note for AJ in case he wasn’t back yet when she woke up.

8:00AM

AJ groggily looked around and found the note on her nightstand.

Be back soon Eggo. Running to clear my head. XOXO

Her stomach was in knots.

Why hadn’t any teams claimed Tyson yet?

AJ got up and took a quick shower, followed by making some tea and toast in the kitchen. Tyson returned home, smelling the toast as he entered the living room. She peeked out of the kitchen, and tossed him a banana.

“Eat up, we gotta get rid of a few things before… whatever happens… just in case.”

With the banana eaten, Tyson hit the shower. Still no news. He himself was resigning to the idea he was going to Des Moines. The team was playing that night, but he obviously was not at morning practice. It stung.

9:00AM (Four hours until the 24 hours were up.)

The two curled up on the sofa to watch some Yellowstone, not really knowing what else to do.

10:00AM

AJ cooked some waffles to share. Tyson had his with the remaining almond butter in the fridge, and another banana. AJ slathered hers in maple syrup.

11:00AM

Tyson shut off Yellowstone, noticing that AJ was not really paying attention and just fidgeting.

“Hey… let’s make a playbook,” Tyson was trying to come up with anything to make time pass and also get AJ’s focus back, “What are you going to do if it’s Des Moines?”

The two talked about how Tyson would likely just make the 3-4 hour drive down I-35 with a few things, and AJ would follow shortly in her own vehicle with more stuff. She might split her time because most of her clients were obviously in the Twin Cities area, but most of the Iowa Wild games were on the weekends, so she could make the trip down until they figured out how to work it all out.

AJ had a look of concern on her face.

“What if it isn’t Des Moines? We’ve been talking it up so much… what if you do get picked up?”

Tyson thought about it for a moment. “There aren’t too many teams nearby… I’d probably end up flying. Would you be up for driving? That way we have at least one vehicle still wherever we end up?”

12:00PM (One hour remaining.)

Both were straight up pacing. With every buzz of his phone, AJ felt more doom and gloom that it was still going to be Des Moines. She understood that it was a chance to get that development that he missed out on as an Avalanche player. But it still felt like such a huge demotion.

12:30PM

AJ sat on the sofa, chewing her nails. She had Laura on speakerphone, to not tie up Tyson’s phone in case something happened.

With just MINUTES to spare, Tyson’s phone rang just before 1:00PM.

AJ and Laura got quiet.

“Yes, I understand. Okay. Let’s do this.” Tyson hung up the phone, finding AJ literally on the edge of her seat, white-knuckling the pillow she was holding onto.

Laura wasn’t even in the room but she could feel the intensity through her own phone, on pins and needles waiting to know as well.

“It’s Buffalo.”

AJ’s phone started buzzing with tweet notifications that Tyson had been claimed. Notifications of texts started shortly after that.

Thinking about the waiver priority list, it was figured out that Anaheim, Columbus, Arizona, and Ottawa (which there were rumblings on Twitter about) all passed. But Buffalo saw something in him, and made it official.

Tyson was going to be a Sabre.

But there was a major issue at that very moment. Buffalo was in the middle of a severe winter storm, expecting to dump upwards of six feet of snow. And Tyson was supposed to get there the next day, supposedly.

Laura exited the conversation to let him and AJ figure out what the next steps were.

“Tys, Buffalo is a two day drive. They think they can get you flown out though?”

It was quickly figured out that AJ was indeed going to drive that afternoon, and arrive the next day. The plan was to stop probably in Indiana, and then make the rest of the trip, weather permitting. But then the discussion of the vehicle came into play.

“I don’t want you driving your Soul… especially if the weather is bad.”

“You know it’s stick, right? And I’ve driven it in Denver, and here, right? And at home in bad weather?”

Insistent, Tyson was trying to make a point. “I’d feel much safer if you took the Cherokee. Please, I mean it. It can hold more too.”

AJ got a smile on her face. “This isn’t about safety at all - you’re nervous about driving stick in Buffalo in my car aren’t you? I told you we should have practiced more this summer.”

Rubbing the back of his neck, Tyson gave a sheepish grin. “Maybe. But I mean it, take my car.”

The two filled up the vehicle with luggage and tubs, leaving Tyson with his backpack and toiletry kit he took on roadies. It was figured out that AJ would fly back the next time Tyson was on an extended roadie to pack up the rest and get stuff ready to be moved.

“Text me when you stop? And check in…” Tyson bit his lip, holding back tears, even though he would hopefully be seeing AJ the next day in Buffalo. “Is this what you feel like when I leave for roadies? This is awful!”

AJ laughed and hugged Tyson tightly.

“Yeah, a little bit. But I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

Tyson handed AJ the keys through the window as she climbed into the driver’s seat, adjusting the mirrors and seat position. He also stole another kiss before she put the key in the ignition, heading out on a new adventure.

As she promised, AJ texted when she stopped for gas, and her stopping point for the night, South Bend, Indiana. Finding a hotel, she barely was in the door when she sent a quick text before passing out for the night.

AJ: Little over halfway there. Roads are fine. Love you so much Tyson, can’t wait to start this new chapter tomorrow in Buffalo.

AJ was snoring hard as it was an even more draining day than the previous, missing the text from Tyson.

Tyson: Flying out hopefully tomorrow afternoon. Snow has stopped. Team is in Toronto tonight, flying back tomorrow too. Should have hotel info and address soon, will send. Sleep well, sweet dreams Eggo. Thank you for trusting the process, even though this isn’t what I’d planned. Love you.

AJ woke up, and checked the roads. It wasn’t going to be great getting into Buffalo, but she had hoped by the time she arrived, a lot of the snow would be plowed. And hopefully Tyson could get into town too. Another six and a half hours to go, AJ snagged breakfast at the hotel before hitting the road again. Doing the math from the info Tyson gave her, he would beat her there by an hour or so and at least could hopefully check in at the hotel.

Tyson: At the airport. (Hotel info) See you in a couple hours babe. DRIVE SAFE. (heart emoji)

AJ: Safe travels, tell the pilot to be careful! (kiss emoji)

After several more hours of driving, which of course was a bit longer due to the weather, AJ finally arrived in Buffalo. Google Maps wasn’t the greatest getting her to the hotel due to some streets not being fully plowed yet, but finally, she arrived and pulled into the parking lot.

Tyson was in the lobby, waiting impatiently, much like in St. Louis months earlier. He almost knocked AJ over rushing to her, hugging her tight. Grabbing a luggage cart, the two unloaded the Grand Cherokee, heading upstairs on the elevator. Opening the door to the room on the 3rd floor, he ushered her in. A load of weight had been lifted from both of their shoulders as AJ let the door close behind her.

“Welcome to Buffalo, Eggo. Welcome home.” Chapter 31 can be found at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-31n/43faeobb8w2p

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Tyson Jost x OFC #TysonTuesday #Play It Cool #NHL #Buffalo Sabres

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brainrattlers · 11 months

Note

Just wanting to check in on you 🤍

Hi Anony! I'm still here, it's just been... a year? Are we allowed to say that? :) You'd think that with both of my teams I follow out of the playoffs, I'd have more time to write, but it seems busier than ever here lately. I've still got plenty of summer shenanigans for Tyson and AJ (and maybe some other special guests) to get into brewing in my head, they just haven't made it to my fingers to get typed out yet. This is my sign that this weekend I need to just stop, sit down, and write a few thousand words for Play It Cool!

Thanks for checking in, it means a lot to me when you do! ❤

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Play It Cool #Tyson Jost x OFC #Colorado Avalanche #Buffalo Sabres #hot hockey summer

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brainrattlers · 1 year

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (36/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 2891

Chapter 35 can be found at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-35n/l1n6k0ggp18i

Start from the beginning at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Warnings: hmm. AJ's sick, taking meds so if you have a bad aversion to NyQuil, maybe take a pass? I don't even think there are bad words in this chapter.

Author's Notes: Short chapter, I've been under the weather, so just got some fluff today. Will get back to hockey goodness in the next chapter! For some reason, tags have not been working, so if you'd like to be directly tagged in my posts (since they're not coming up in tag searches? And Tumblr's support is failing me in solving this issue), hmu in the comments!

***

So that New Year's kiss may have happened on January 4th, but Tyson made it one hundred percent worth it. Texting from the airport, he made sure that AJ would indeed be at the hotel in about an hour.

Tyson: Not to ruin the surprise, but… you’ll be there, right?

AJ: Yep, what are you up to, Jost?

Tyson smiled, he secretly loved it when AJ called him that. She knew he was up to something, and he loved the fact it was getting to her in a fun way. Plotting little things to cause some harmless mystery and mischief, and of course making AJ smile and laugh was his favorite.

Finding his Grand Cherokee in the parking lot, Tyson hit the road, finding himself at the grocery store near the hotel before heading home. Stopping in, he picked out a few things he jotted down on his phone notepad earlier on the flight from DC. Strolling down the candy aisle with his small basket, he also threw a package of Justin’s PB Cups in for himself. Looking at his basket, everything from the list was in there, and made his way to the checkouts, and out the door.

After parking, and coming up the elevator, Tyson stood outside of their door, pulling things from the bag, including cups and sparkling cider. Inside, AJ could hear the rustling of the plastic bags and Tyson chuckling from the hallway as he texted his fiancée just inside.

Tyson: Hey babe, open the door in 10 seconds.

Tyson: 5, 4, 3, 2…

AJ opened the door, whispering “1.”

Grabbing Tyson’s face, AJ kissed him with abandon. It had been nearly a week since they’d physically been in each others’ presence. She pulled him inside, hands on the still on the sides of his face. Finding the counter next to them, Tyson was able to put the cups and bottle in his hand down on it, dropping the bag (thankfully without breakable items in it) onto the floor. Lips melting into each other’s, the two caught up on all the kisses missed in the last week, and more than made up for the kiss missed days earlier at midnight. After a few minutes, the pair were left with dazed smiles AJ looked up into Tyson’s eyes.

“Happy New Year, Eggo. Here’s to spending this year, and many more, together.” Tyson’s eyes twinkled as he kissed AJ again.

Breaking the embrace, Tyson went back to the kitchen counter, grabbing the sparkling apple cider and plastic champagne glasses, pouring each a glass. Before doling them out, he grabbed drastically marked down party hats and noisemakers from the grocery bag. Putting a hat on AJ and himself, he put a horn in his mouth and honked at AJ. The horn in AJ’s lips unfurled and squeaked in Tyson’s direction, leaving them both giggling, sipping on the sparkling juice.

Grabbing the extra blanket that AJ had on the bed, she headed for the sofa as Tyson clicked around on Netflix to find something to watch. She shivered under the fleece as she curled up next to him. The opening scenes of White Noise started, and the two watched intently, trying to figure out what was going on.

As much of an Adam Driver fan AJ is, she was unable to stay awake and fell asleep shortly after the first half hour of the movie. And as the movie went on, Tyson wasn’t faring much better in the keeping awake department. The thing that woke AJ up was the song of the final credits, as she’s also a bit LCD Soundsystem fan.

Attempting to bounce her head to the beat, it started pounding, leaving AJ shivering. Breathing in deep, her nose was clogged and she snuffled, waking Tyson instantly. Rubbing his eyes, he suddenly looked concerned.

“You feeling okay, babe?”

AJ scrunched her eyes and sniffled loudly, wincing as she tried to stretch her arms over her head.

“I’ve been kinda tired the last day or so, I hope I’m not getting sick.”

Tyson put the back of his hand on AJ’s forehead.

“Oh no, you’re burning up. I think you’re past the getting sick level,” Tyson suddenly went into nurse mode, getting up off the sofa, “You stay put, I got this.”

“Damn it, I was working on scheduling *sniffle* places for us to go look at to live in.” AJ was more concerned about making it to the appointments.

Returning from the kitchen, large glass of water and a couple Tylenol in hand, Tyson shushed her.

“Right now that doesn’t matter, we can find our place when you get better. Here, take these to start, and drink that whole glass of water. Gotta keep you hydrated, yeah?” Tyson gave a soft smile as he had AJ sit up to take the meds and sip on the cool water. “Will you be okay if I run back out to grab a few things from the store?”

AJ cleared her throat, nodding. Trying to not be a wimp, she attempted to get up but sat down quickly again. She motioned toward the bedroom.

“Can you grab my pillow?” Her voice was tiny.

“Of course, you stay put,” Tyson had AJ lift her head to put the pillow underneath it and tucking the blanket in around here, “I’ll be right back. Text me if you need anything, okay? Or if you want something from the store?”

“Sprite? And orange juice?”

“Of course, Eggo. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Tyson leaned down, kissing AJ’s feverish forehead.

Tyson made the quickest trip back to the same grocery store he was just at hours earlier. Grabbing a cart this time, he made his way up and down aisles, while texting his grandma.

Tyson: Hey Grandma, what’s the recipe for your chicken soup? AJ is sick, and yours always made me feel better.

A few minutes later he got a list of ingredients off his phone, they were in his cart, along with liquid NyQuil (Tyson remembered that AJ couldn’t swallow the capsules), tea, Sprite and orange juice. Tyson picked up a few other things too that he thought would make AJ more comfortable, the things that made him feel better when he was home sick. His last stop in the store was the floral counter, where he found the perfect plant for her, picking out a pot in her favorite color as well.

Rushing back home, the door was opened as silently as possible, with Tyson putting the bags on the counter. Peeking over, he found AJ snoring loudly as her nose was severely clogged. Without clanging the pots as much as he could muster, a pot of broth and shredded rotisserie chicken simmered on the one-burner stove in their small home. It wasn’t 100% his grandma’s recipe, but it was going to be as close as he could get in the time/space crunch he was working with. Tasting the broth, he added a little more garlic, and some extra spices from the cupboard.

With a coughing fit, AJ woke up, looking around at the living room, not remembering she fell asleep there. Quickly, her nose, albeit stuffed up, smelled something delicious coming from the space behind her in the kitchen. Tyson jumped up, looking around the corner from the table to make sure AJ was alright. Once knowing she was good, he offered to help her get to the table as dinner was almost ready.

AJ sat down, still wrapped up in the blanket as two bowls of chicken noodle soup were ladeled up. Looking at the breakfast bar, a small green and white mottled leaf plant in a bright red ceramic pot caught her eye. Amused, Tyson smirked, pointing at the plant.

“I saw it and thought of you. I think it’s a… pothos? It’s a Snow Queen, according to the tag. And with everything you’ve been through in the last two months, you’re MY Snow Queen.”

The smile that graced AJ’s face from the explanation warmed Tyson’s heart. Twice now AJ had given up most of her plants when moving to a new place, so he was hoping he could help start a new collection for their new place in Buffalo.

“Now, eat up... It isn’t quite the recipe, but pretty close. Grandma Emily sends her love and hopes you feel better soon.”

Taking a slurp of the broth and a noodle, AJ closed her eyes, letting the hot liquid ease down her throat. She appreciated that the carrots were soft. Even more appreciated is the fact that Tyson skipped the celery that is often found in chicken and noodles all together, as it’s a veg that AJ refuses to eat. Slowly, the bowl of soup in front of her disappeared, helping her shivers disappear a bit as well.

Once their bowls were empty (Tyson might have had a second one), AJ attempted to get up and grab both of them, heading to the sink.

“Huh uh, you go either to the couch or bed… I got this,” Tyson gently took the bowls from AJ’s hands, “You need to rest.”

“But you cooked, I need to do the dishes,” AJ squeaked out.

Tyson put the bowls and silverware on the counter next to the sink, “Not this time. Next time, when I’m sick, you can cook and do the dishes while I rest, you know? I got you babe, you’re benched the rest of the night.”

AJ frowned, but then chuckled at his choice of words. Finding her way back to the chaise part of the sofa, she propped herself up with her pillow to help with her cough and congestion. Tyson looked over the counter to see her clicking on something on Hulu, starting an episode. The opening credits hadn’t even started, and the snores from her stuffy nose were already happening as he filled the sink with hot water to wash the dishes. He let her doze as he finished up.

Looking at his watch, Tyson grabbed a bottle from the bag of groceries that still sat on the end of the counter from earlier. Popping off the little plastic shot glass, he eyeballed the red syrupy liquid that came out until it was at the top line.

“Hey baby girl, I need you to wake up,” Tyson gingerly touched AJ’s arm, “C’mon, it’s medicine time.”

AJ grumbled and opened her eyes, sensing the vile red liquid in the shot glass was not indeed a tasty shot. Finally awake enough, the cup was put in her fingers and then turned her lip up at it in a cringe, knowing how bad it was going to taste. But getting up the courage, she attempted to shoot it as fast as possible, taking it in two gulps. The horrific taste left her gagging slightly.

“IT IS SOOO BAD, ewwww,” AJ was being a little overdramatic, flailing a bit. She got quiet, thinking about something for a few minutes, forgetting the taste that was still lingering in her mouth. “Do you want me to sleep on the sofa? I don’t want to get you sick babe.”

To be honest, she probably already had exposed him with that make-up New Year’s kiss.

Tyson thought about it as well, coming to the same conclusion. “I want you to sleep where you’ll feel most comfortable, where you’ll actually get rest. If that’s the sofa where you can prop yourself up, sleep there. If you want to sleep in bed, by all means.”

“But you need your rest too… you’re the one that has to play Saturday, and practice, and…” AJ got quiet, and started staring at a spot on the floor, although nothing was there.

The NyQuil was hitting, and Tyson could tell.

“Even if you choose the bed, I’m staying there with you. I think you’re going to be pretty out of it here quick anyway.” Tyson smiled as AJ completely zoned out, intensely looking at seemingly nothing.

Leaving AJ in her cold medicine-induced trance, he took the few moments to grab a pair of pajama pants and a tanktop for AJ. Before he had her decide where she wanted to crash for the night, he made sure she was comfy in what clothes he picked out. Eventually, AJ indicated she wanted to sleep in bed, requesting a pile of pillows to keep her head up and hopefully not coughing all night. She was still coherent enough she was worried that Tyson wouldn’t get any sleep, but he had one more trick up his sleeve, or rather, in the bag in the kitchen.

While not his favorite scent, it was something that always helped him when he was younger and struggling with a cold. Opening the little blue jar, he scrunched his nose at the smell as his fingers swept up a dollop of VapoRub and smeared it on AJ’s exposed skin above her collar of her top, and put a little just under her nose. The goo was already doing it’s thing as her nose started to run a bit, and she didn’t feel like coughing. An extra box of lotioned tissues was put on her nightstand to make sure her nose wasn’t going to get all red and cracked from blowing it too much.

Tyson really had thought of everything.

AJ was out like a light, and a groggy mess come morning. Tyson was up early, getting ready for the morning’s practice, when he heard AJ honking while blowing her nose in the other room. Peeking in, he noticed that she had a little more color to her face (that wasn’t the dark circles under her eyes). She caught him checking in, and noticed how tired HE looked.

“Please tell me I didn’t keep you up all night?” AJ croaked out, throat dry from sleeping with her mouth open to breathe as her nose was still stuffy.

“Naw, I ended up sleeping on the sofa after you kinda starfished in bed. We have this giant king size bed here and you may be tiny, but… yeah. You kinda took over.” Tyson smiled and chuckled, just happy that she did get some sleep. “I just wasn’t used to the sofa, that’s all. I’ll be fine with a nap after practice. You feel like some more soup for breakfast? I can heat you up a bowl if you’d like.”

With a nod, Tyson jumped up and grabbed a bowl and the extra soup from the fridge, heating it up as he finished his own bowl of cereal. AJ made her way slowly to the little dining table, sitting down and rubbing her head. A glass of water and shot of DayQuil was already waiting for her. She had been single so long prior to Tyson coming into her life, she couldn’t even remember the last time she had someone to take care of her when she felt crummy, and despite the obvious feeling ill, she felt mentally better knowing someone was looking out for her.

Bowl of soup in front of her, Tyson kissed AJ’s forehead while putting the spoon on the wooden table.

“Well you don’t feel like a raging inferno this morning,” He kissed her forehead again just because, “feeling better at least?”

She truly was, although not one-hundred percent. But was happy that at least her eyes and ears didn’t feel like she was cooking from the inside out. The soup felt amazing, helping her face and throat hurt less.

“I’ll be back in a few hours. Rest! And stay hydrated, your OJ and Sprite are in the fridge. Text me if you need anything.” Tyson put on his backpack and blew a kiss from the doorway.

Finishing up her soup, AJ put on the latest season of Letterkenny and grabbed a big glass, filling it half and half between the soda and juice. Settling in on the sofa, she sipped the drink and laughed at the jokes. A text from Laura came in asking how she was feeling - Tyson obviously said something to Grandma Emily and word likely spread. The two chatted back and forth a few minutes until sleep took hold after the warmth of the soup and blanket lulled her to sleep.

Not knowing what he was going to come back to, but figuring from the lack of texts, Tyson was quiet as a mouse once home from practice and again the grocery store. When AJ had emerged on the other side of her migraines, she always craved a handful of things, so he figured this would be no different and picked them up. Leaning down over the arm of the sofa, the back of his hand grazed her forehead again, making sure the fever never came back. She stirred slightly, but was out like a light again. He took advantage and snagged about an hour’s worth of nap time in bed, without her sprawling limbs taking up the space.

Until they weren’t, because that’s exactly what woke him up. But AJ’s limbs weren’t sprawling, they were curling up into him, wrapping around his torso. She smelled a bit of another shot of DayQuil and some VapoRub, but he didn’t care. The fact she got up, took some more meds, and willingly climbed into bed were signs she was on the up and up.

Chapter 37 is posted! https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-37n/hxfl33gkhrv2

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Buffalo Sabres #Play It Cool #NHL #Tyson Jost x OFC

6 notes · View notes

brainrattlers · 2 years

Text

Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (23/n)

Author's Notes: Tyson's struggling a little with the first round loss, and the love of his life being so far away, but AJ made the leap, she packed it up and made her way north. She didn't realize just how far north she'd be going this summer! Tyson had some plans that he had to clue AJ into, but she's doing her best to just go with what life throws at her right now.

Pacing on this chapter is a little weird. There is always so much build up when traveling to get somewhere you want to be, and then it seems to slow down once there. Or maybe I have that backward - it takes forever to get there, then things go fast? Either way... the journey to St. Paul was a long one. But don't think that's the only traveling this summer... oh no. The traveling has just started... I've always heard that if you want to make or break a relationship, you travel with your partner. Will Tyson and AJ survive this? (Duh, of course.)

Also I'm driving to St. Paul here in a few weeks, and... yeah I'm dreading that drive too. It isn't from Denver, but still a good 8-9 hour drive. I feel AJ's pain. Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Word Count: 4478

Warnings: Language. Tyson's a little handsy at the beach but... he's a guy and this is easily PG-13 if not less.

Chapter 22 is at: https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/695900532270874624/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-22n

The last two days were rough on Tyson. He was still pretty upset about the Game 6 loss, which was understandable. But he waited, albeit impatiently, for the best thing he had going to arrive.

AJ had texted Tyson as she was getting ready to leave Denver, heart pounding and fingers fidgety as she was starting a new part of her life.

AJ: Packed up, in the car. Getting my last Dutch Bros. Be there in about 13 hours… ready to start writing this new chapter with you.

Tyson squinted with one eye looking at his phone screen, a grin lit up his face.

Tyson: Counting the MINUTES. Drive safe love.

Confined to his small room at the extended stay hotel, he flipped on the TV to find something to watch to pass the time. He ran downstairs and ate breakfast before they picked up the food for the morning, and did some running on the treadmill at the hotel gym as it was raining again. Tyson was just not good at sitting still when he was looking forward to something.

The plan was to actually meet up with AJ at the storage unit he snagged, since not all of both of their things were going to fit in that tiny space that they were now going to share. It wouldn’t be a long time, since they both started actually looking at listings and sharing them back and forth. But there was also a lot of random plans Tyson had for the summer, and was trying to figure out how to keep AJ incorporated in those plans. But until there was a more permanent residence, they both were going to have some things at multiple locations.

Checking in along the way, AJ posted various things to Instagram, and responded to comments on posts when stopping for gas for her car, or sent silly texts to Tyson.

AJ: Things I think about while driving… are zebras white with black stripes? OR are they black with white stripes? Speaking about white stripes, I’m listening to The White Stripes right now. I’m somewhere in Nebraska. See you soon babe.

AJ: Des Moines was originally named Fort Raccoon. It then became Fort Des Moines, and finally, in 1857, was shortened to Des Moines. Little less than 4 hours, can’t wait to kiss you.

Tyson: I can’t wait to kiss you either. Speed a little more? Just don’t get caught. I’ve heard stories from the guys about the cops out here

AJ: I’m in your state!

Tyson: You’re in OUR state! (smile emoji)

It hit different that AJ was indeed almost to her new home. Although now it would really be that home is a feeling and not a physical place, necessarily.

Tyson had planned on traveling up to see his family, bringing AJ with him so she could finally meet Grandpa Jim and Grandma Emily. It’d been months since he’d seen Kacey. He was also going to train with some specialist coaches and work on what he felt were weak points in his game. Seeing friends, maybe hit the lakes a bit. It was going to be a summer of whatever Tyson wanted to do… as long as AJ was okay with it as well.

He hadn’t exactly ASKED if she were okay with these ideas, but, he certainly hoped she’d be okay with traveling a bit. Tyson wasn’t joking when he said he wanted to spoil her more. What good was money if he couldn’t spend it within reason?

As AJ approached St. Paul, the last few texts to Jess were sent, letting her know of the arrival.

AJ: I can’t believe we won’t get to watch the games together, with pre-game margs and tacos. This sucks.

Jess: I know, right? Is it too soon to ask when you’re coming back to visit?

AJ: Probably a little. We’ll figure it out though, okay? I'm not ditching you for a boy. I mean I kind of am. A really hot one. But I promise he will not get in the way (evil imp face)

AJ: On that note… I’m in traffic and am almost to the storage unit to drop off a few things. I’ll text you later. Miss you already!

With a few turns onto some side streets, AJ saw Tyson’s Grand Cherokee parked near the entrance to the storage unit facility, with him leaning up against the vehicle, face engulfed in a smile as bright as the sun that afternoon. Unlocking the door, Tyson opened the front seat, but then realized that Maple was in the way, and was stuck cramming himself into a tiny corner of the backseat, getting AJ and the trailer to the correct unit. Thankfully it was just the trailer getting unloaded, the things in her car were coming with - you know, clothes, computer equipment, toiletries, pillows…

Working as a team, the couple unloaded and stacked things into the small storage unit, trying not to crush Tyson’s sofa and a few things he already had in there. With the trailer empty, AJ had to take it to a drop-off location, and Tyson said he’d wait for her at the hotel - he had to get things set up so that she could park and have in/out privileges like he did, and wouldn’t have the hassle of waiting for the valet. He saw her car on Grand, so he hopped outside really quick to show her where to park.

“Hey babe, should I be jealous that someone is getting out of the passenger side of your vehicle? Should I text Jess asking what I should do?” Tyson started giggling as AJ shot him a glare as she unbuckled and pulled Maple the Bear from the front seat.

“Zip it, Jost.” AJ rolled her eyes but joined in the giggles.

Everything had been brought upstairs within two trips, and AJ collapsed next to Maple on the chaise lounge section of the sofa. It was 1000% an emotionally draining day, not to mention driving thirteen hours. Tyson was on the complete other end of the spectrum, with energy to burn. However, the way this duo worked is that they compliment each other, they balance each other out. Tyson took a hint and laid across the sofa with his head in AJ’s lap, her fingers aimlessly playing with his curls, waking up slightly. On the other hand, Tyson simmered down, cozying the back of his head into AJ’s thighs, smiling up at her.

“Welcome home, Eggo.”

AJ smiled softly. “It’s good to be home, Maple Syrup Man. So… what’s the plan? Other than I think I’m crashing early tonight, no offense. This week has been a blur, especially the last two days.”

She didn’t mean to cause it, but Tyson felt an emotional stab to his heart. HE was the reason she was so tired, because he was so needy, in his own mind. He closed his eyes, trying to push back those thoughts. AJ immediately picked up on it, and softly slid her finger along his forehead, and down the bridge of his nose, and back up again, soothing the creases in-between his eyes. A tiny sigh from Tyson happened, as AJ felt his neck loosen up more leaving his head to press more against her legs. Leaning over, a small smile formed on AJ’s lips as she looked at the far more relaxed Tyson.

Opening his eyes, and looking up into her light blue ones, Tyson made AJ an offer she couldn’t turn down.

“So, I hope this doesn’t come off as too forward, I think you’re pretty cute. Would you wanna have dinner at my place tonight? Maybe… spaghetti and meatballs?”

“Gee, I don’t know, is it far from my place? I’m new in town and am not familiar with the area.”

Tyson lifted his head up as AJ leaned down for a quick kiss before he hopped up off the sofa and took a few steps to find himself in the kitchen grabbing a few utensils and kettles. AJ was going to join him to help out in the kitchen, but it truly was small. Granted it was still bigger than the one they danced in the last time she stayed at the hotel, but still, slow dancing and cooking are two very different choreographies that require different amounts of space.

Plus, sensing how tired AJ was, he insisted he cook dinner tonight so that she could recover a bit. She found herself sitting at the tiny kitchen/dining room table for two, her chin propped up in her hand watching the festivities. Something caught her eye though, and she squinted.

Attached to the side of the refrigerator were tons of post-it notes with familiar handwriting.

Tyson caught AJ staring at the collage of notes. “Yep. I’ve kept every single one I’ve found. I’m still finding some. You really went all out on those, but that’s what kept me sane while you were still in Denver. When I felt alone, I read every single one over again. It was like you were right here with me.”

A boiling pot of water was salted slightly, and a box of pasta splashed into it. Meatballs were tossed in a bowl, and put into the microwave as the room didn’t have an oven this time around, as opposed to his old place in Denver. (“I’m sorry they won’t be as good this time.” “What do you mean? This is the first time I’ve had dinner with you, handsome man that invited me to his place for dinner…”) Sauce was poured into a small kettle to be heated up on the second burner on the tiny stove.

While everything boiled, simmered, or was zapped in the microwave, Tyson was grabbing bowls and silverware from the cabinet and drawer. Hands shoved into oven mitts, the pasta was drained masterfully, and divided between the two bowls. Sauce was ladled onto the steaming noodles, and finally the meatballs were placed on top. Tyson placed the two bowls on the table and sat down.

“You know I could get used to you being all domestic and hot.”

“Wait until you see me do the dishes,” Tyson wiggled his eyebrows.

Maybe it was the fact that AJ was enjoying hot food that wasn’t takeout (it’d been a few days considering she was emptying out the old place), maybe it was that she wasn’t in her car. It might have even been the company in AJ’s presence. It took a moment, but a huge sigh slipped from AJ’s lips, fighting a yawn. It wasn’t even a yawn because she was tired physically - it was more of an emotional release. The stress of being on the road was gone. The frustration that they were only going to be able to facetime tonight was gone. Things were all lining up the way they should. The tiny space may not be ideal, but it didn’t matter. Things were going to change up in the next few weeks, months, years… none of it mattered as long as Tyson was right there with her.

And the feeling was apparently subconsciously mutual, as Tyson watched AJ figure out whatever was going on inside her head, and agreed by tapping his foot on hers under the table. Realizing she was staring at her pasta, AJ looked up, and found Tyson’s eyes crinkled as his lips curled up, seeing her sitting in front of him.

Dinner was pretty much eaten in silence, other than the occasional smile and giggle at each other. The two fell right back in sync. For these two, quiet wasn’t uncomfortable. They could communicate with body language , no words spoken. Just knowing the other person was there was enough. One of the things that AJ missed the most during the last couple months was lazy afternoons spent on the sofa, Tyson strumming on his uke, AJ playing a game or reading a book, and literally her foot was on his thigh. They could be doing completely unrelated things in each other’s physical presence, but it was the simple fact they occupied the same space that made everything feel right in the world.

With the last noodles slurped and bowl scraped, it was AJ that hopped up and grabbed Tyson’s utensils and headed for the sink.

“Babe, I told you that I’d get this, you’ve had a long day.”

“Hey, if we’re living together, I can’t not do my part. You cooked, I’ll clean up. It’s only fair.” AJ was honestly NOT wanting to do the dishes, she really just wanted to crawl into bed and sleep about twenty hours. But in her heart, she knew this was right.

Thankfully the amount of dishes was minimal. AJ started scrubbing the dishes, and Tyson waited patiently for a couple to hit the rack so he could dry them and put them away. There might have been a small delay as he wrapped his arms around her from behind, and let his lips barely brush above AJ’s collar on the back of her neck. Dropping the sponge in the sink, she was able to turn around and use the dish towel slung over Tyson’s neck in two ways - first to dry her hands, and then second to use as a way to pull his face closer to hers. This really was the first time the couple stopped and really kissed since AJ arrived earlier that afternoon.

Just like everything else that evening, it was soft. The biggest difference though was that it was much lengthier and involved arms and hands slowly wrapping around the other as lips stayed connected. Once the kiss had run its course, they stayed wrapped up in each other for a few more moments, AJ had buried her face into the crook of Tyson’s neck, slowly brushing the tip of her nose along his collarbone. Needing a little more connection still, Tyson’s lips found AJ’s forehead, grazing with featherweight pressure against her skin. The silence was barely broken by the sounds of the two breathing each other in and out.

AJ opened her eyes and slowly tilted her head upward.

“As much as I wish this moment could last forever, because it feels so perfect, I’m fading fast. Some of us have been up since 3am Denver time…”

“Yeah yeah, you make it out that you drove 13 hours today,” Tyson smirked, “Let’s get these dishes done and get some sleep.”

Drying the silverware and putting it in the drawer, Tyson watched AJ grab her suitcase and pull out a tee and boxers to slip into before ducking into the bathroom to take out her contacts and brush her teeth. It occurred to him that they were going to need to find a bigger place soon – not that he minded the closeness - it was just more that they were combining two living spaces into a tiny one and inevitably they’d probably snap at each other at some point for being in each other’s space TOO much.

AJ emerged from the bathroom, and flopped onto the bed face-first. Turning her head though, she noticed that her pillows were on the other side of the bed from where they normally are when the two would crash with each other. Rolling onto her back, she admired the view in the bathroom as Tyson was brushing his teeth. The very edge of his boxer brief-clad butt was in view in the doorway. AJ shifted just a bit to see Tyson shaking his behind to an imaginary song in his head, toothbrush moving to the same beat.

His ears must have been burning, feeling AJ’s observing eyes upon him. Leaning back a bit, he caught AJ staring. He shook his hips with more exaggeration, and went back to brushing his teeth.

A few more minutes were spent in the bathroom, flossing his teeth and washing his face. He leaned back again while drying his face to check on AJ, only to find her already asleep, diagonally across the bed. Sneaking out quietly, he didn’t want to wake her up, but was finding he was going to likely have to - she was on mostly his side of the bed.

“Eggo…” Tyson whispered softly near AJ’s ear, “can you scootch over a bit? You’re on my pillows.”

AJ was pretty asleep already, and there was no response. He tried again, touching her arm lightly, not wanting to startle her.

“Baby girl…”

The words roused AJ just a bit, because usually that was something she got called when Tyson was trying to get her riled up. The tone was not deep though, so she wasn’t triggered too much.

“Mmm?” AJ questioned, still half asleep.

“Babe, I need you to scoot just a bit, you’re on my side of the bed.”

“Hmm mmmm.” AJ gripped Tyson’s pillow harder and nodded back off.

At a loss of what to do, Tyson tried to pry the pillow from AJ’s extreme grip, and roll her over to more of her side of the bed. He got her a quarter of the way there when she started murmuring and was seemingly grumpy about the situation. (I mean, if you’d driven 13 hours and had just fallen asleep, you’d be grumpy too, right?) With enough room to at least get onto a portion of his side of the bed, Tyson slid under the duvet and wedged himself under AJ enough to slide her a bit more over. She finally let go of her deathgrip on the pillow.

“Finally!” Tyson thought to himself, as he slid his pillow away to put under his own head.

But instead, AJ grabbed onto whatever was closest to her to hug tight. It happened to be Tyson himself. The two of them are in this giant king-size bed, and are taking up a third of it, pushing Tyson close to the edge.

Making the best of it, Tyson cradled AJ in his arms, trying to keep from losing circulation in them. And a bit later, he finally drifted to sleep. The two woke up as the sun started streaming through the sheer curtains, very much still crammed to one side of the bed. Definitely confused, AJ looked around and realized where she was, and also that she was not even close to her side of the bed. She rolled back over, and Tyson stretched, wincing slightly as his arms went over his head.

“May have to call you Koala Bear instead of Eggo the way you were clinging to me last night.”

AJ’s eyes went wide. “Oh no, I am so sorry. I don’t even remember falling asleep. I remember watching you dance while brushing your teeth and… then I really don’t remember. I feel awful about taking up the whole bed. Our first real night together and I’m an absolute jerk. I wasn’t actually that curled up with you, was I? Oh no…”

Tyson sheepishly grinned. “Yeah babe, you… kinda were. It was cute though.”

A lazy morning was had, the two snagged breakfast before it shut down in the lobby. Tyson was a little fidgety though, and AJ wasn’t sure why. She finally questioned it, noting that he was tapping his foot inadvertently against AJ’s.

“Something bothering you? You’ve seemed to be a little off this morning. Was it me stealing the bed last night?”

Tyson looked down, trying to figure out how to say what he was needing to.

“I know you just got here, but… I’m thinking about heading home for a bit. Nothing too long, but I was thinking maybe late next week or so. I’m looking to do some training with Dynamic, and want to see family.” He paused, then looked AJ in the eye. “I was kind of hoping you might want to come with? You know Grandpa and Grandma want to meet you. Kace and Mom will be around too.”

AJ nodded, adding, “Okay, it’s not like I really have plans or anything, babe. I’m just going with the flow right now. How long would we be gone?”

The two discussed plans, and it would be a couple weeks, and Tyson even insisted if she wanted to come back to St. Paul, she could. He didn’t want to hold AJ captive in a country that wasn’t her own if she didn’t want to be there the whole time. AJ saw it as a chance to connect with Tyson’s family more… her at some point soon in-laws.

Over the next few days, AJ and Tyson had time to themselves, and it honestly was spent just roaming around the Twin Cities area. That date that kept getting put off in Denver of visiting the zoo finally happened, albeit much further north. AJ brought Tyson to Electric Fetus to find out what was new in the music world. A day was spent at Lake Minnetonka with some of Tyson’s teammates, past (college) and present.

In fact, Lake Day was probably Tyson’s favorite day since AJ permanently arrived, as water is definitely his element. Skating on frozen water, and doing tricks on the wakeboard - it all makes sense with Tyson being a Pisces. Oddly enough, AJ is a fire sign as a Leo, but she’ll also claim she was born a month early (truth) and would have been a Virgo, another water sign. Sure, Tyson enjoyed seeing friends new and old, and playing in the water (and was happy to see AJ wasn’t worried about getting her hair wet and dove right into the water), but his favorite part of it was a bit more… handsy.

You see, AJ is a pale, pasty gal of Western European ancestry. A large chunk Irish, German, Italian, and Polish - and that is just her mom’s side. Regardless, she burns within minutes of being in the sun. Tyson took this into consideration and was consistently asking if she needed more sunscreen. Sure, he didn’t want her getting sunburned, but the ulterior motive was clear:

Putting sunscreen on someone is one of the few times that it is 100% acceptable to get handsy in public.

Tyson was more than willing to rub the lotion onto AJ’s exposed skin. Shoulders? Check. Neck? Got it. Back? Happy to oblige. He was even trying to get a bit cheeky (no pun intended) by smoothing it up AJ’s calves, knees, and thighs. She literally had to tell him to stop before he got any ideas further up (too late, of course).

Otherwise, even though AJ had no experience with wakeboarding, he was so excited to see her try, fail, try, fail, try… and finally actually stand up for a few moments. Even Tyson’s friends were cheering her on as she was doing better than a few of them were. With a little practice she’d probably get much better, but for what she accomplished that day, AJ was even proud of herself. It wasn’t the actual standing on the board that made her feel good - it was the fact she was doing something new in front of people she didn’t know, and did not care. Incredible wipeout? She was the first to start laughing when she found the water’s surface, exclaiming “Tell me that looked as epic fail as I felt like it did! LET’S GO AGAIN!”

Tyson couldn’t understand that AJ ever felt like she was out of place, she always seemed to mesh well with everyone she talked to. Just like in Colorado, everyone in Minnesota was understanding why AJ was so different in the best possible way.

With that, AJ noticed that the anxiety and worry that seemed to be lurking just under the surface of Tyson had receded over the last few days. And with the anticipation of heading back home, it was the most relaxed she’d seen him be in… months really. Tyson couldn’t wait to show AJ where he grew up and experience all that Edmonton had to offer.

After just a couple more days in St. Paul, AJ kept her promise to Tyson she made weeks prior, showing just how good at packing luggage she was. A small carry-on and her backpack had a week and a half’s worth of clothes, toiletries, and all the electronics she’d need to survive. Tyson had a full size suitcase and was still worried about not fitting all of his things. She helped him re-pack and found that he had a lot more space if he’d fold things differently.

The two got up early and snagged an Uber to the airport, and went through security. AJ downed a handful of Dramamine with a bottle of water. She fidgeted with the label on the bottle, tearing it into little pieces.

“You good?” Tyson’s voice was laced with concern.

“Y'know how I get motion sickness? I mean I haven’t in a while because I’m used to your driving, or I am the chauffeur… but me being a little tired to start with at the lake? Dramamine.” AJ paused.

Tyson nodded for her to continue.

“I’m a terrible airplane passenger. They won’t let me fly the plane, so… Dramamine.”

The joke caught Tyson off-guard causing laughter to erupt from him. Once the chuckle was under control though, he knew just how anxious she could get, especially if she started feeling the dizziness and nausea that plagued her.

“Aww, Eggo, you know I’ve got you.” Tyson wove his fingers into AJ’s.

Those fingers stayed intertwined until the plane had taken off, despite AJ trying to break Tyson’s hand while squeezing it as the plane leaned back to gain altitude. Finally the Dramamine really did it’s thing, and AJ fell asleep against Tyson’s shoulder.

“Hey, hey babe?” Tyson squeezed AJ’s hand, “Wake up, we’re in Calgary.”

AJ groggily looked around and rubbed her eyes, contacts dry from sleep. After a turbulent landing (and potentially bruised hand for Tyson as AJ squeezed it really hard again… he asked her to try to loosen her grip slightly for the next flight as he was going to need those hands for practice the next few days), they had a quick layover, snagging some brunch and doing some people-watching until their next flight into Edmonton.

Calgary to Edmonton, thankfully, was pretty uneventful. AJ stayed awake and watched out the window nearly the whole flight, sans takeoff and landing. Those were some of the things that set off her vertigo for sure. But she did her best to simply loosely hold onto Tyson’s hand, this time succeeding. Once on the ground, with carry-on items in hand, the two exited the plane and made it to the baggage claim, finding Tyson’s suitcase.

Just outside of security, Tyson’s face lit up. In front of them, just down the corridor, the whole Jost clan (including Grandpa Jim and Grandma Emily) stood with their own sign.

“Welcome Home, Tyson! Welcome to Canada, AJ!” Ready for Part 24? https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/697160469821194240/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-24n

#Tyson Jost #TysonTuesday #Play It Cool #Josty #Tyson Jost x OFC #MNWild

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