A Chicago Girl dreaming out loud.
"Buttercup, can you explain this to me?" Nick asked holding up the pregnancy test. I broke down crying. Nick put down the test and ran up to me. He stroked my hair. "Shh. Sam, was this from that chef guy?" I nodded trying not to sob into his dress shirt. "Shh. Sam, please don't cry. You know I hate it when you cry." I pulled away and looked at him. "Look come here." he said leading me to the bed. Blue barked at the both of us. I laughed. "Sam, Blue and I love you no matter what happens and honestly, I wouldn't like to see you get rid of this baby. But I will act forward as this child' s father, even though it is not my child. " I looked at him and wiped away of my tears. "Really?" He titled my chin upward. "Yes." He kissed my forehead. "Oh, I actually have something for you." He took something out of his back pocket, it was a small ring box. "Nick…" "Sam, I love you, more than hockey sometimes. I know that you are always here for me after any type of game. I know we are still kinda young to get married but I guess, this can be the pre-engagement." He opened the box showing two rings. "It's a promise ring. I promise that I will always love you no matter what situation comes though." He took one of the bands and slid it on his finger. He took the other ring and said, "and I know that for sure that you love me. I don't think any other girl would stay with me after being apart for more than a year and sacrificing her life to be with me during the NHL season." he said sliding the other ring on my left ring finger, "and I love you so much."
I looked at the ring. It was beautiful. "Nick, I can't believe you. I love you for doing this." I kissed his cheek. Blue barked. I laughed and looked at him, "I love you too Blue." I kissed the top of the dog's head. "We should get going. I can't be late." We got up and I walked to our side table to grab my purse. "Shall we mad 'am?" He said extending his arm. "We shall." I said.
Nick and I walked to his car and we drove off towards the United Center. Nick took a hold of my hand, "Do you see that ring? It's beautiful, just like you." I giggled. "Seriously Nick, stop being all cute." "Seriously, I really owe you a lot for even staying with me." Nick said sincerely. I started to blush. Nick drove into the players lot. We both got out of the car and a took out my pass. The security guard gave Nick a 'sup' nod as I showed him my pass to be down there.
"Sam!" I heard Kelly Rae say as she saw me.
"Kelly!" I said giving her a hug.
"Nick." "Kelly." They both exchanged as Nick walked into the dressing room to get ready.
Kelly and I walked towards the family room to be greeted by some of the other Better Halves. Abby wobbled over towards me and gave be a hug.
"Sweetcheeks you never told me what the test said." She said.
"You took the test already?" Dayna asked. I nodded.
"Well what did it say?" Elina asked as well.
I smiled. "Yes. It said yes." We all squealed.
"How did Nick take it?" Jana asked holding onto baby Mia Hossa.
"Actually, he found the test before I did. I totally forgot about the test until he started getting for the game tonight. It was kinda embarrassing." I said.
"And somehow that's not the only thing that happened." Elina said smirking.
"What?" I asked. She glanced at my left hand. I shot up a little bit.
"Oh. Nick gave me a promise ring. Since we feel like we are kinda still too young to get married that he gave me a promise ring. He has one for him and one for me." I said showing off my left hand.
We all squealed again, until security and some of the players shot us weird glances. We all laughed at ourselves.
About a few minutes later, we were all escorted to a box where we would all sit for the game.
The game verses the Oilers ended up 6-3, Blackhawks with the win. We were all excited that they were able to start the circus trip to a good start. The guys were going to board the plane to Canada to start their Circus Trip right after the Oilers game tonight. Nick and I met up in the players lot before they headed off.
"Here's the key to the car." he said handing me the keys. "I'm going to miss you." I said hugging him. "Hey, you're not going to be alone. Plus you have to keep me updated on any doctors appointments you have in the next couple of weeks." He kissed my forehead.
"Nick, don't worry. I will. I promise." I said letting go from the hug.
"Leddy, hop to it." I heard Coach Q say. "On it coach." Nick said. I giggled. "Nick, leave. Now." I said laughing. He pulled me into one last hug. "Promise me you'll be safe." He said. I let go. "Bye!" I said walking towards his car. I hopped into the car as I saw the final couple players board the bus. My phone buzzed. A text from Nick.
Be safe.
I laughed at him and put my phone away before starting the car to go home.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Nick has been gone for a week now due to the circus trip. I was currently in the car with Taylor on the way to the airport.
"Sam, why do you have to leave?" She asked.
"Well, unlike you, my family lives in Minnesota. I have to visit them some day." I retorted.
"Okay, sass. I'm just saying. Before you couldn't visit them at all for a year."
"Circumstances have changed."
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." She pulled into O'Hare's parking lot. She helped me gather my things out of the trunk. Taylor helped me get through all the airport stuff, until she had to leave me at the security check.
"So, I'll see you later Leddy?"
I rolled my eyes and hugged her. "Call me anytime Toews and take care of Blue for me." She laughed.
We let go as I had to get in line for security.
A few hours later I landed in Minnesota. I gathered my things and walked off into the terminal to the airport. I turned on my phone to see that I got a text.
Someone will be there to pick you up. Can't wait to see you back home. - Mom
I walked into the airport some more. I looked up to see a sign saying "Samantha Leddy" . An inside joke with someone close to me. I looked closer to see who was holding the sign. I laughed as I walked towards him. "Thanks Ty." I said to Nick's younger brother, Tyler. "It's nice to see you too Sam." He said pulling me into a hug. "Eden Prairie hasn't been the same without you." he continued. "Well it's nice to be back." "C'mon let's go get the rest of your stuff." "Are you here alone?" I asked. "Yeah, I can drive now." "Oh lord." "Hey! I'm not a bad driver." he said playfully shoving me.
"So how've you been?" He asked while we were in the car on the way home.
"With everything that's going on? Or in general?" I asked back.
"Everything that's going on. My dad told all of us what happened." I gulped.
"Everyone?" Tyler nodded.
"Well, you know I've been trying to cope with everything. The face that your brother is on board with supporting a child that isn't even his, tells me a lot about our relationship. I'm really glad that I found your brother again."
"Weren't you in like Europe or something?" He asked.
"Yeah. For school. I was disconnected from the NHL in Europe, even though Hockey is semi-big, but with the schedule I had it was highly impossible for me to stay in touch with it."
"That's good. I'm happy for you and my brother. Don't tell him this but I always wished that any relationship I have with a girl could be like your relationship with my brother."
I laughed. "Don't worry, Ty. You'll find that girl one day."
He chuckled. "I guess so." We pulled up to my house. "And we're here."
We got out. "Gosh, it hasn't changed at all." I said looking at my house.
Tyler got my other luggage as I grabbed my carry-on and waited for Tyler. We walked up to the door. As the door opened, a bunch of people yelled "Surprise!". A bunch of people were in the room; my parents, Nick's parents, and a few friends from high school. Each one of them welcomed me back home to Eden Prairie. "Samantha, we're glad you're back home." My dad said welcoming me with open arms. Daddy's girl right here.
The party seemed like it went on forever. I got to see a few friends again, like Brian, one of Nick's closest buddies. "Anderson, where've you been?" "Nice to see you too Brian." "Still cooking?" he asked.
"Still playing hockey?" I asked back. "Touché." He said.
"So seriously, how's everything? Nick doing okay?" I nodded taking a sip of my drink.
"Yeah, everything is going well. Right now he' on a road trip for 2 weeks." "Is that why he's not here?" "Well Brian, not only do I have to make sacrifices but Nick does too."
"So, what about the whole baby situation?" he asked shyly.
"Does everyone know?" He nodded. I sighed.
"Everything is going okay. We're both keeping the baby and Nick is going to help support the baby even though it isn't his."
"That's so like Nick." I smiled, "That's why I love him." My phone started to buzz. It was Nick. "Speak of the devil. Excuse me Brian." "Yeah, go ahead." He walked off. I answered my phone.
"Hello?" I asked.
Hey Buttercup. What's up? I heard Nick say.
"Oh not much. Just hanging out in EP."
You're back home already?
"Yeah, it's Thanksgiving break silly."
Right…
"So what are you doing?"
Just relaxing in the hotel room. The team has three days off before we head to San Jose. Apparently during this trip, we can get rewarded by going to Vegas, which we are in now. But since I'm underage, I can't do much but sit here and rot.
"You're not going to rot Nick. My parents are holding a welcome back party right now. Apparently everyone knows."
They do?
"Yeah, everyone has been asking me about the situation."
Honestly, you'll just have to keep on repeating yourself. This incident only happened a few weeks ago. You can't say much about the baby and they'll just have to deal.
"Uh Nick, both of our moms are already planning the baby shower."
But, but.. Oh never mind.
I laughed. "I gotta go but I'll call you later or something if you're still bored."
Oh okay. Say hi to my parents and your parents. Punch my brother for me.
"Nick, I will not punch your brother."
Fine. Love you, Anderson.
"Love you too, Leddy."
I hung up and walked up towards the party.
Hours had past and the party was over. The only people that were left in my house were my family and Nick's. Both families were helping clean up. After we were done cleaning up, the Leddy family decided to go home. Nick's mom said that she would come by tomorrow to talk to me. Both her and my mom wanted to talk to me about the baby situation.
When I woke up in the morning I heard my phone buzz. I lazily extended my arm to reach my phone. Nick was calling me on FaceTime. I answered it puling the phone in front of me.
"Nick, it's 9 in the morning here. What are you doing up?" I asked.
Hello to you Buttercup. I saw his face through my phone.
"Sorry, I'm just not feeling well still."
I'm sorry, babe. I wish I was there with you.
"Where are you?" I asked. "It doesn't exactly look like you're in a hotel room."
He laughed. The team has a room where they can set up the video games and just chill. Kinda like a living room.
"Oh." I laughed. "That makes more sense."
So what are you going to do today? He asked.
I explained that both of our moms wanted to talk to me about the whole baby situation and the future. Nick's face went from a smile to a straight face.
That could mean anything.
"Right. I mean. I don't know exactly on what they want to say but I don't know if it's a good thing or not."
Knowing our moms it won't be that bad. I mean, it may not be my baby but I'll do whatever I can to support the kid. I smiled.
"See that's why I love you. I can't wait for that date when you come back."
Me too Sam. I heard a bunch of noises in the background coming from Nick's side. Hey Leds whatcha doing up do early? I heard in the background. Shit. Nick said. I laughed. Suddenly the image from Nick's phone turned from Nick to Scott. Hey Sam!
"Hello John." I said.
So what are you fine lovebirds doing now-a-days? He asked.
I laughed. "Oh nothing much. You know just catching up."
How's the bump doing?
"The bump?"
Nick took back the phone from Scott. The guys have been calling the baby, the bump, since it's early in the stages. I gave him a weird expression. "Why?" He shrugged. I don’t even know. "Should I go?" No. He said. I think you should. Scott said coming into the picture. I laughed. "I'll talk to you later Nick." He looked sad. Oh okay. Love you. "Love you too." I touched the screen to end the call. I got out of bed walking downstairs to face my parents.
I looked at the ring. It was beautiful. "Nick, I can't believe you. I love you for doing this." I kissed his cheek. Blue barked. I laughed and looked at him, "I love you too Blue." I kissed the top of the dog's head. "We should get going. I can't be late." We got up and I walked to our side table to grab my purse. "Shall we mad 'am?" He said extending his arm. "We shall." I said.
Nick and I walked to his car and we drove off towards the United Center. Nick took a hold of my hand, "Do you see that ring? It's beautiful, just like you." I giggled. "Seriously Nick, stop being all cute." "Seriously, I really owe you a lot for even staying with me." Nick said sincerely. I started to blush. Nick drove into the players lot. We both got out of the car and a took out my pass. The security guard gave Nick a 'sup' nod as I showed him my pass to be down there.
"Sam!" I heard Kelly Rae say as she saw me.
"Kelly!" I said giving her a hug.
"Nick." "Kelly." They both exchanged as Nick walked into the dressing room to get ready.
Kelly and I walked towards the family room to be greeted by some of the other Better Halves. Abby wobbled over towards me and gave be a hug.
"Sweetcheeks you never told me what the test said." She said.
"You took the test already?" Dayna asked. I nodded.
"Well what did it say?" Elina asked as well.
I smiled. "Yes. It said yes." We all squealed.
"How did Nick take it?" Jana asked holding onto baby Mia Hossa.
"Actually, he found the test before I did. I totally forgot about the test until he started getting for the game tonight. It was kinda embarrassing." I said.
"And somehow that's not the only thing that happened." Elina said smirking.
"What?" I asked. She glanced at my left hand. I shot up a little bit.
"Oh. Nick gave me a promise ring. Since we feel like we are kinda still too young to get married that he gave me a promise ring. He has one for him and one for me." I said showing off my left hand.
We all squealed again, until security and some of the players shot us weird glances. We all laughed at ourselves.
About a few minutes later, we were all escorted to a box where we would all sit for the game.
The game verses the Oilers ended up 6-3, Blackhawks with the win. We were all excited that they were able to start the circus trip to a good start. The guys were going to board the plane to Canada to start their Circus Trip right after the Oilers game tonight. Nick and I met up in the players lot before they headed off.
"Here's the key to the car." he said handing me the keys. "I'm going to miss you." I said hugging him. "Hey, you're not going to be alone. Plus you have to keep me updated on any doctors appointments you have in the next couple of weeks." He kissed my forehead.
"Nick, don't worry. I will. I promise." I said letting go from the hug.
"Leddy, hop to it." I heard Coach Q say. "On it coach." Nick said. I giggled. "Nick, leave. Now." I said laughing. He pulled me into one last hug. "Promise me you'll be safe." He said. I let go. "Bye!" I said walking towards his car. I hopped into the car as I saw the final couple players board the bus. My phone buzzed. A text from Nick.
Be safe.
I laughed at him and put my phone away before starting the car to go home.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Nick has been gone for a week now due to the circus trip. I was currently in the car with Taylor on the way to the airport.
"Sam, why do you have to leave?" She asked.
"Well, unlike you, my family lives in Minnesota. I have to visit them some day." I retorted.
"Okay, sass. I'm just saying. Before you couldn't visit them at all for a year."
"Circumstances have changed."
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." She pulled into O'Hare's parking lot. She helped me gather my things out of the trunk. Taylor helped me get through all the airport stuff, until she had to leave me at the security check.
"So, I'll see you later Leddy?"
I rolled my eyes and hugged her. "Call me anytime Toews and take care of Blue for me." She laughed.
We let go as I had to get in line for security.
A few hours later I landed in Minnesota. I gathered my things and walked off into the terminal to the airport. I turned on my phone to see that I got a text.
Someone will be there to pick you up. Can't wait to see you back home. - Mom
I walked into the airport some more. I looked up to see a sign saying "Samantha Leddy" . An inside joke with someone close to me. I looked closer to see who was holding the sign. I laughed as I walked towards him. "Thanks Ty." I said to Nick's younger brother, Tyler. "It's nice to see you too Sam." He said pulling me into a hug. "Eden Prairie hasn't been the same without you." he continued. "Well it's nice to be back." "C'mon let's go get the rest of your stuff." "Are you here alone?" I asked. "Yeah, I can drive now." "Oh lord." "Hey! I'm not a bad driver." he said playfully shoving me.
"So how've you been?" He asked while we were in the car on the way home.
"With everything that's going on? Or in general?" I asked back.
"Everything that's going on. My dad told all of us what happened." I gulped.
"Everyone?" Tyler nodded.
"Well, you know I've been trying to cope with everything. The face that your brother is on board with supporting a child that isn't even his, tells me a lot about our relationship. I'm really glad that I found your brother again."
"Weren't you in like Europe or something?" He asked.
"Yeah. For school. I was disconnected from the NHL in Europe, even though Hockey is semi-big, but with the schedule I had it was highly impossible for me to stay in touch with it."
"That's good. I'm happy for you and my brother. Don't tell him this but I always wished that any relationship I have with a girl could be like your relationship with my brother."
I laughed. "Don't worry, Ty. You'll find that girl one day."
He chuckled. "I guess so." We pulled up to my house. "And we're here."
We got out. "Gosh, it hasn't changed at all." I said looking at my house.
Tyler got my other luggage as I grabbed my carry-on and waited for Tyler. We walked up to the door. As the door opened, a bunch of people yelled "Surprise!". A bunch of people were in the room; my parents, Nick's parents, and a few friends from high school. Each one of them welcomed me back home to Eden Prairie. "Samantha, we're glad you're back home." My dad said welcoming me with open arms. Daddy's girl right here.
The party seemed like it went on forever. I got to see a few friends again, like Brian, one of Nick's closest buddies. "Anderson, where've you been?" "Nice to see you too Brian." "Still cooking?" he asked.
"Still playing hockey?" I asked back. "Touché." He said.
"So seriously, how's everything? Nick doing okay?" I nodded taking a sip of my drink.
"Yeah, everything is going well. Right now he' on a road trip for 2 weeks." "Is that why he's not here?" "Well Brian, not only do I have to make sacrifices but Nick does too."
"So, what about the whole baby situation?" he asked shyly.
"Does everyone know?" He nodded. I sighed.
"Everything is going okay. We're both keeping the baby and Nick is going to help support the baby even though it isn't his."
"That's so like Nick." I smiled, "That's why I love him." My phone started to buzz. It was Nick. "Speak of the devil. Excuse me Brian." "Yeah, go ahead." He walked off. I answered my phone.
"Hello?" I asked.
Hey Buttercup. What's up? I heard Nick say.
"Oh not much. Just hanging out in EP."
You're back home already?
"Yeah, it's Thanksgiving break silly."
Right…
"So what are you doing?"
Just relaxing in the hotel room. The team has three days off before we head to San Jose. Apparently during this trip, we can get rewarded by going to Vegas, which we are in now. But since I'm underage, I can't do much but sit here and rot.
"You're not going to rot Nick. My parents are holding a welcome back party right now. Apparently everyone knows."
They do?
"Yeah, everyone has been asking me about the situation."
Honestly, you'll just have to keep on repeating yourself. This incident only happened a few weeks ago. You can't say much about the baby and they'll just have to deal.
"Uh Nick, both of our moms are already planning the baby shower."
But, but.. Oh never mind.
I laughed. "I gotta go but I'll call you later or something if you're still bored."
Oh okay. Say hi to my parents and your parents. Punch my brother for me.
"Nick, I will not punch your brother."
Fine. Love you, Anderson.
"Love you too, Leddy."
I hung up and walked up towards the party.
Hours had past and the party was over. The only people that were left in my house were my family and Nick's. Both families were helping clean up. After we were done cleaning up, the Leddy family decided to go home. Nick's mom said that she would come by tomorrow to talk to me. Both her and my mom wanted to talk to me about the baby situation.
When I woke up in the morning I heard my phone buzz. I lazily extended my arm to reach my phone. Nick was calling me on FaceTime. I answered it puling the phone in front of me.
"Nick, it's 9 in the morning here. What are you doing up?" I asked.
Hello to you Buttercup. I saw his face through my phone.
"Sorry, I'm just not feeling well still."
I'm sorry, babe. I wish I was there with you.
"Where are you?" I asked. "It doesn't exactly look like you're in a hotel room."
He laughed. The team has a room where they can set up the video games and just chill. Kinda like a living room.
"Oh." I laughed. "That makes more sense."
So what are you going to do today? He asked.
I explained that both of our moms wanted to talk to me about the whole baby situation and the future. Nick's face went from a smile to a straight face.
That could mean anything.
"Right. I mean. I don't know exactly on what they want to say but I don't know if it's a good thing or not."
Knowing our moms it won't be that bad. I mean, it may not be my baby but I'll do whatever I can to support the kid. I smiled.
"See that's why I love you. I can't wait for that date when you come back."
Me too Sam. I heard a bunch of noises in the background coming from Nick's side. Hey Leds whatcha doing up do early? I heard in the background. Shit. Nick said. I laughed. Suddenly the image from Nick's phone turned from Nick to Scott. Hey Sam!
"Hello John." I said.
So what are you fine lovebirds doing now-a-days? He asked.
I laughed. "Oh nothing much. You know just catching up."
How's the bump doing?
"The bump?"
Nick took back the phone from Scott. The guys have been calling the baby, the bump, since it's early in the stages. I gave him a weird expression. "Why?" He shrugged. I don’t even know. "Should I go?" No. He said. I think you should. Scott said coming into the picture. I laughed. "I'll talk to you later Nick." He looked sad. Oh okay. Love you. "Love you too." I touched the screen to end the call. I got out of bed walking downstairs to face my parents.
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When I got to the Sharp residence, I limped to the door and knocked quickly. Elina opened the door. "It's about…. Oh my gosh. What happened?" she said. All the other girls turned their heads towards the door. Elina helped me inside. Dayna pulled out a chair for me to sit on and Julia went to the closet to get me a towel. "Sam, what happened?" Abby asked sitting next to me. I explained the incident to the girls. They all had disgusted looks on their faces. "Who would do such a thing?" Kelly Rae said. I shrugged. "I'll call the police." Danielle said pulling out her phone. "Sam, we have to call Nick and tell him." Jana said.
-----------------------
Nick's P.O.V.
All of the guys and their dads were hanging out in lounge area set up for us. A couple of the guys and their dads including me and my dad were playing Blackjack. Hoss walked up to me and pulled me away from the game. "Hey Leds. My wife just called me and told me that something is wrong with Sam." I stared at him. "Do you know what's wrong?" I asked him. "You should call her to find out. I don't want to get anything wrong." Hoss said patting me on the back. I took out my phone from my pocket and called Sam.
H-hel-hello? She said. He voice sounded very weak.
"Buttercup. What happened? Is everything okay?" I asked desperately into the phone.
She explained everything that had happened. I clinched my phone tight in my hand. That damn chef does not have the right to touch my girlfriend like that.
"Sam. Please tell me you are safe right now." I asked.
Yeah, I'm at the Sharps place. There was a pause. Abby said that I can stay with her until you guys come back.
"Please do." I said as my voice cracked.
Nick don't worry about me. I'm safe right now. I have the other halves with me."
"Samantha. Please stay there until I come back. I don't want to see you get her anymore."
I heard her giggle a bit. Nick, I'm in good hands. Just concentrate on your game. I love you.
"I love you too Buttercup. Stay out of the streets."
Goodbye Snicks. I laughed and hung up. My dad came over and asked who called. I explained the entire situation with the chef and what just happened with Sam right now. "Is she alright?" he asked. I nodded, "She is. She's staying over with Sharpie's wife until we get back."
"That's good."
-----------------------------------------------
Sam's P.O.V.
A few days after the incident, I woke up at the Sharp residence one early morning. I walked downstairs meeting Abby in the kitchen. "How are you feeling?" she asked taking a sip of her water. I took a seat across from her. "Fine I guess, a little queasy but fine. Also a little happy that Nick and the guys are coming back. But then not so excited about the whole circus trip coming up. She shoved a plate of eggs in front of me. "That's one of the things I hate about the NHL. Those long road trips. Especially since they aren't even going to be in town for Thanksgiving as well. It's something you have to deal with when you make a commitment in a hockey player's life. But on the bright side, you're never alone." She said as I took a bite from the eggs. I nodded and swallowed.
"I think that's the best part." I said.
"It sure is." Abby said agreeing.
After biting into another bite of the eggs I felt sick to my stomach. I quickly ran into bathroom. "Sam!" Abby said wobbling after me. After doing my business, I sat next to the toilet leaning my head on the seat. "Sam, I have an test if you want it." I nodded. She wobbled away to grab the test while I got up and opened the window. I don't care if it is November, I need fresh air. Abby walked back to me holding the test. She handed it to me. I stared at it for a couple of minutes. "You don't have to take it right away. Just take your time." She said hugging me.
I drove to Nick's apartment after having breakfast with Abby. I searched for the spare key again under the 'Welcome' mat. I unlocked the door and rushed inside. I hung up my jacket and plopped myself on his couch. I turned on the TV and changed it to HBO to watch whatever movie was on. Elf was on. I got up and walked to Nick's room and grabbed the blanket that was neatly laid out on his bed. I walked back to the living room along with the blanket and resumed watching Elf. Through the middle of the movie, I felt sick and ran to the bathroom. I threw up whatever was coming up in the toilet. I cleaned up a little bit and walked back to the living room. I started nodding off into sleep afterwards.
"Nick, don't bother her. She's asleep." I heard someone say. I turned my head slightly and tried to open my eyes. I opened them to Nick sitting on the coffee table watching me. "Hey, sleep head. Long day?" Nick said laughing a bit. I shook my head, as he walked over to the couch sitting next to me. "Are you feeling okay?" I heard that voice say again. I turned around to face seeing it was Nick's dad. "I'm fine, I guess. Just a little terrified but overall I'm fine." I said assuming Nick told his dad what happened. "Did you hear anything from the police?" I shook my head. "Not yet. But I've heard the story on the news." Nick's eyes widened. "Don't worry. They didn't say that I was dating you or anything. I was more of the usual 'Guy rapes a woman in the city. Women left hurt.'" I said quoting the Chicago news. "Police here in Chicago are sometimes useless." I continued.
------------------------------------
Throughout the rest of the day, Nick, his dad and myself hung out until it was time for Mike's flight back to Eden Prairie. "Mike it was so nice to hang out with you again." I said hugging him. "Sam, you'll always be like a daughter to me no matter what." I let go to let Nick and his dad say their good-byes.
Flight 38c to Eden Prairie is now boarding.
"I guess that's my flight." Mike said. Nick nodded. "Nick, Sam. Here is some advice. No matter what happens. Promise to always be true to each other. Don't let one thing put you down." We both hugged him one last time as he walked through the tunnel.
"You hungry?" Nick asked. "Maybe just a little." He side hugged me. "Let's go then." Nick and I walked back to the car in silence. The car ride back to the condo was complete silence, which was a little weird. I took out my phone and texted Abby.
What do I do? Nick is really quiet. He's never like this around me.
Did you tell him yet?
Not quite yet.
Did you even take the test yet?
No.
Let him take everything in.
Okay.
I slid my phone back into my purse. When we got to the condo, we silently took the elevator up to the condo. When Nick opened the door, he walked straight to his room. I sighed and walked to the kitchen and started cooking lunch.
Once the lunch was cooking in the oven, I looked at my purse which had the test in it and looked at the bedroom door. I quietly walked towards the bedroom and knocked on the door. "Nick?" I said slightly opening the door. I peeked my head in the room. I saw that Nick was sitting on the edge of the bed with his hands on his head. I walked towards him and sat down next to him. "Nick?" I said leaning my head on his shoulder.
"Sam. I'm sorry." He said quietly.
I moved his hands away from his head and hugged him. "Nicky. It's not your fault."
"I should have been protecting you. I should have kee…"
I kissed him on the lips. I slowly pulled away. "Nick. It's not your fault. There will be moments we're you won't be about to protect me. But there will always be friends there to help me out. Just relax." I said sitting on his lap.
"What ever happens, we'll get through this together." I continued.
-----------------------------------
A couple weeks later, the Hawks were playing their last home game against the Oilers before the Circus Trip. Nick was currently at morning practice and I was alone in his condo. I've felt more queasy after this past couple weeks. I decided to take the test now. I took the test out and did whatever I had to do. I left the test on the bathroom counter and took my phone out and to call Abby.
Hello? She answered.
"Hey Abby. Guess what I just did."
Did you take the test already.
"Yup. Now I have to wait."
How are you going to tell Nick?
"No idea yet. Maybe when he gets home from practice which will be anytime soon." I said.
Well good luck chicky. Tell me how it goes.
"Will do. Thanks Abby."
Not a problem. Bye.
"Bye" I hung up. I heard the door open and footsteps walk in.
"Buttercup I'm home." I laughed.
"Do you insist in calling me that?" I asked. "More or less." he said kissing my cheek. "I have a surprise for you." I jolted up a little. "What is it?" I asked in suspicion. "Close your eyes." I did what I was told. I heard a small bark. "Nick please don't tell me you did." I opened my eyes to see Nick chasing a puppy Husky. "Blue come back here." he said chasing the little guy. He ran up to me and sat in place. I knelt down to pick up the furball. "Aww he's so cute." I said petting Blue. "He should be. He's ours now." I looked at Nick with a smile. "Really." I said continuing to pet him. I suddenly felt a metal object, nothing like a collar. I looked at it and it was a little tag saying Will you move in with me? I looked at Nick and smiled. He smiled with a cheesy smile. "So?" I walked up to him. "Yes." I said kissing him on the lips.
A few hours later, Nick had just woken up from his pre-game nap and went to get ready. I had just finished changing for the game so I sat in our bedroom playing with Blue. Nick came out of the shower holding something in his hand. "Uh Sam. What is this?" He said holding up the test in front of me. I didn't realize that I had left it on the bathroom counter the entire day.
-----------------------
Nick's P.O.V.
All of the guys and their dads were hanging out in lounge area set up for us. A couple of the guys and their dads including me and my dad were playing Blackjack. Hoss walked up to me and pulled me away from the game. "Hey Leds. My wife just called me and told me that something is wrong with Sam." I stared at him. "Do you know what's wrong?" I asked him. "You should call her to find out. I don't want to get anything wrong." Hoss said patting me on the back. I took out my phone from my pocket and called Sam.
H-hel-hello? She said. He voice sounded very weak.
"Buttercup. What happened? Is everything okay?" I asked desperately into the phone.
She explained everything that had happened. I clinched my phone tight in my hand. That damn chef does not have the right to touch my girlfriend like that.
"Sam. Please tell me you are safe right now." I asked.
Yeah, I'm at the Sharps place. There was a pause. Abby said that I can stay with her until you guys come back.
"Please do." I said as my voice cracked.
Nick don't worry about me. I'm safe right now. I have the other halves with me."
"Samantha. Please stay there until I come back. I don't want to see you get her anymore."
I heard her giggle a bit. Nick, I'm in good hands. Just concentrate on your game. I love you.
"I love you too Buttercup. Stay out of the streets."
Goodbye Snicks. I laughed and hung up. My dad came over and asked who called. I explained the entire situation with the chef and what just happened with Sam right now. "Is she alright?" he asked. I nodded, "She is. She's staying over with Sharpie's wife until we get back."
"That's good."
-----------------------------------------------
Sam's P.O.V.
A few days after the incident, I woke up at the Sharp residence one early morning. I walked downstairs meeting Abby in the kitchen. "How are you feeling?" she asked taking a sip of her water. I took a seat across from her. "Fine I guess, a little queasy but fine. Also a little happy that Nick and the guys are coming back. But then not so excited about the whole circus trip coming up. She shoved a plate of eggs in front of me. "That's one of the things I hate about the NHL. Those long road trips. Especially since they aren't even going to be in town for Thanksgiving as well. It's something you have to deal with when you make a commitment in a hockey player's life. But on the bright side, you're never alone." She said as I took a bite from the eggs. I nodded and swallowed.
"I think that's the best part." I said.
"It sure is." Abby said agreeing.
After biting into another bite of the eggs I felt sick to my stomach. I quickly ran into bathroom. "Sam!" Abby said wobbling after me. After doing my business, I sat next to the toilet leaning my head on the seat. "Sam, I have an test if you want it." I nodded. She wobbled away to grab the test while I got up and opened the window. I don't care if it is November, I need fresh air. Abby walked back to me holding the test. She handed it to me. I stared at it for a couple of minutes. "You don't have to take it right away. Just take your time." She said hugging me.
I drove to Nick's apartment after having breakfast with Abby. I searched for the spare key again under the 'Welcome' mat. I unlocked the door and rushed inside. I hung up my jacket and plopped myself on his couch. I turned on the TV and changed it to HBO to watch whatever movie was on. Elf was on. I got up and walked to Nick's room and grabbed the blanket that was neatly laid out on his bed. I walked back to the living room along with the blanket and resumed watching Elf. Through the middle of the movie, I felt sick and ran to the bathroom. I threw up whatever was coming up in the toilet. I cleaned up a little bit and walked back to the living room. I started nodding off into sleep afterwards.
"Nick, don't bother her. She's asleep." I heard someone say. I turned my head slightly and tried to open my eyes. I opened them to Nick sitting on the coffee table watching me. "Hey, sleep head. Long day?" Nick said laughing a bit. I shook my head, as he walked over to the couch sitting next to me. "Are you feeling okay?" I heard that voice say again. I turned around to face seeing it was Nick's dad. "I'm fine, I guess. Just a little terrified but overall I'm fine." I said assuming Nick told his dad what happened. "Did you hear anything from the police?" I shook my head. "Not yet. But I've heard the story on the news." Nick's eyes widened. "Don't worry. They didn't say that I was dating you or anything. I was more of the usual 'Guy rapes a woman in the city. Women left hurt.'" I said quoting the Chicago news. "Police here in Chicago are sometimes useless." I continued.
------------------------------------
Throughout the rest of the day, Nick, his dad and myself hung out until it was time for Mike's flight back to Eden Prairie. "Mike it was so nice to hang out with you again." I said hugging him. "Sam, you'll always be like a daughter to me no matter what." I let go to let Nick and his dad say their good-byes.
Flight 38c to Eden Prairie is now boarding.
"I guess that's my flight." Mike said. Nick nodded. "Nick, Sam. Here is some advice. No matter what happens. Promise to always be true to each other. Don't let one thing put you down." We both hugged him one last time as he walked through the tunnel.
"You hungry?" Nick asked. "Maybe just a little." He side hugged me. "Let's go then." Nick and I walked back to the car in silence. The car ride back to the condo was complete silence, which was a little weird. I took out my phone and texted Abby.
What do I do? Nick is really quiet. He's never like this around me.
Did you tell him yet?
Not quite yet.
Did you even take the test yet?
No.
Let him take everything in.
Okay.
I slid my phone back into my purse. When we got to the condo, we silently took the elevator up to the condo. When Nick opened the door, he walked straight to his room. I sighed and walked to the kitchen and started cooking lunch.
Once the lunch was cooking in the oven, I looked at my purse which had the test in it and looked at the bedroom door. I quietly walked towards the bedroom and knocked on the door. "Nick?" I said slightly opening the door. I peeked my head in the room. I saw that Nick was sitting on the edge of the bed with his hands on his head. I walked towards him and sat down next to him. "Nick?" I said leaning my head on his shoulder.
"Sam. I'm sorry." He said quietly.
I moved his hands away from his head and hugged him. "Nicky. It's not your fault."
"I should have been protecting you. I should have kee…"
I kissed him on the lips. I slowly pulled away. "Nick. It's not your fault. There will be moments we're you won't be about to protect me. But there will always be friends there to help me out. Just relax." I said sitting on his lap.
"What ever happens, we'll get through this together." I continued.
-----------------------------------
A couple weeks later, the Hawks were playing their last home game against the Oilers before the Circus Trip. Nick was currently at morning practice and I was alone in his condo. I've felt more queasy after this past couple weeks. I decided to take the test now. I took the test out and did whatever I had to do. I left the test on the bathroom counter and took my phone out and to call Abby.
Hello? She answered.
"Hey Abby. Guess what I just did."
Did you take the test already.
"Yup. Now I have to wait."
How are you going to tell Nick?
"No idea yet. Maybe when he gets home from practice which will be anytime soon." I said.
Well good luck chicky. Tell me how it goes.
"Will do. Thanks Abby."
Not a problem. Bye.
"Bye" I hung up. I heard the door open and footsteps walk in.
"Buttercup I'm home." I laughed.
"Do you insist in calling me that?" I asked. "More or less." he said kissing my cheek. "I have a surprise for you." I jolted up a little. "What is it?" I asked in suspicion. "Close your eyes." I did what I was told. I heard a small bark. "Nick please don't tell me you did." I opened my eyes to see Nick chasing a puppy Husky. "Blue come back here." he said chasing the little guy. He ran up to me and sat in place. I knelt down to pick up the furball. "Aww he's so cute." I said petting Blue. "He should be. He's ours now." I looked at Nick with a smile. "Really." I said continuing to pet him. I suddenly felt a metal object, nothing like a collar. I looked at it and it was a little tag saying Will you move in with me? I looked at Nick and smiled. He smiled with a cheesy smile. "So?" I walked up to him. "Yes." I said kissing him on the lips.
A few hours later, Nick had just woken up from his pre-game nap and went to get ready. I had just finished changing for the game so I sat in our bedroom playing with Blue. Nick came out of the shower holding something in his hand. "Uh Sam. What is this?" He said holding up the test in front of me. I didn't realize that I had left it on the bathroom counter the entire day.
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After shopping for a few hours, Carli and I headed back to Nick's condo. Carli still wanted to surprise him and all. Before we went up, I texted Nick if he was back yet. He replied. I looked at Carli. "Yup, he's home." I unlocked my car and helped Carli grab some of her things. I grabbed a couple of the shopping bags of clothes that I would probably keep at Nick's just in case. We headed upstairs. When we got up there, I heard another voice besides Nick's. "Does he have company?" Carli asked. I shrugged as I searched under the 'Welcome' mat for the spare key. I unlocked the door, "Guess who I found!" I said bursting through the door with Carli hiding behind me. I dropped the bags, "Oh hello Marcus." I said to Marcus Kruger, another young gun, on the team. "Hi Sam, it's nice to finally meet you." I nodded, "As it is the same." "Hi Carli." Nick said looking over my shoulder. She popped up from behind me, "How did you know it was me?" she exclaimed. "My mom texted me asking if you came yet." "Darn Aunt Vicki." Nick walked towards us and pulled us into a hug, "It's nice to see my two of three favorite girls here." Nick let go of Carli and wrapped his arms around me. "So what did you buy?" he whispered in my ear. I pushed him away. "None of your concern." I grabbed my bags, "Come on Carli, I'll show you to the guest room." I said leading her to the room.
I let Carli settle in and I sat in the living room with Nick and Marcus. "So how was training camp you guys?"
"You know. It was good. There was a lot of people." Marcus said.
"Yeah, I heard. Every year it's sold out. But tickets are cheap." I said.
"It is. It's nice to see the fans come out in the morning." Nick said.
I turned around as I heard Carli's footsteps enter. "You all ready?" I asked with a smirk. "Ha ha. Yes." She said mocking me. I turned back around. "Marcus this is Carli, Carli this is Marcus." I said introducing them. They shook hands and stared at one another. After a few minutes I leaned in to Nick's ear. "I think they like each other. They haven't said a word for a few minutes." I whispered. Nick wrapped an arm around me. "Kruger's gonna have to watch himself." I laughed removing them from their little trance. "So did you guys have fun staring at each other." Carli started to blush. She pushed me a little bit. "I guess I should get going. It was so nice to meet you Sam and Carli. See you tomorrow Leds." Marcus said. Nick lead Marcus to the door. After Nick closed the door, he turned around. "So ladies, what shall we do today." "I shall go home. Seriously. Taylor can't be trusted alone." I told him.
"Who's Taylor?" Carli asked.
"She's my roommate in my condo."
"Oh. She dating a Hawk?"
"You could say that." I said.
She looked confused.
"Let's just put it this way. Captain Serious isn't trusted."
"Gross Sam. Don't let me think about what could be going on over there." Nick blurted.
"Sorry. I'll see you tomorrow." I said walking towards him kissing his cheek. He smiled. "And you…" I said looking at Carli. "Don't give Nick a hard time." I continued as I hugged her. "Don't worry. I will." I laughed pulling away. "Bye guys!" I waved, walking out the door.
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"So what's going on?" asked Taylor as I cooked breakfast. The sky started growing dark as the fall season of November emerged. "Nick and I are going to pick up his dad at the airport today after lunch. The Hawks are going on the Father/Son trip for a few days while on the mini-road trip in Florida." Her eyes lit up. "Don't ask me if you'll meet papa Tazer. Seriously. You should go ask Jon about that." She grabbed a strawberry from the bowl. "I never said I wasn't." I put my hands up in defense. "Not going to ask, take your pancakes and get out of here." She stuck her tongue out at me. "Whatever Leddy." she said grabbing a pancake. I laughed as I continued to cook a few more cakes.
My phone started ringing, I walked over to see that Carli was calling. I picked up my phone and answered it.
"Yola!" I said flipping the pancake that was currently in the frying pan.
So Sam, Nick said I can stay at his place until I find a place of my own. I was wondering if Miss Chicago could help me find one?
"Yeah, sure no problem. I think there is a place in my building that's for rent. Wait. Does that mean you got the job?" I asked.
If you must know. I did get the job, but I'm also transferring to Columbia.
"Gosh. Congrats girlie."
Thanks. So you said there's a place in your building? She asked.
"Yeah. I can talk to the person if you want. I'll give you all the details."
Thank you so much, Sam. You're the best.
"No problem." I said shutting off the stove.
So you said you had a roommate. Why can I meet her?
"Uhh. You kinda did already." I said flatly.
I did. When? She asked.
"Uh remember that new girl in homeroom Senior year?"
That art freak? She's your roommate?
"To be honest. When I saw my place for rent with a roommate, I didn't know it was her."
I walked to my locker to grab my books for my first class. I looked at the mirror to check my hair. "You do know, you look beautiful everyday. You don't need to check you hair. Even if you look hot wearing my jersey. " I heard Nick say behind me. I turned around to face him. "Thanks hot shot. But your shag of hair isn't your style." I said. He leaned down to kiss my cheek. "Well, if we win tonight's game, I'll let you cut it." I face lit up. "Really?" He nodded. Nick shut my locker as we started to walk away. He draped his arm around me. We headed towards the staircase called the 'Neutral Zone'. It was one of the staircases leading outside to the rink. There was no way anyone could not pass it on the way to class. The main office was across the staircase as well. Most of the hockey team sat of the stairs the morning of a game, before homeroom, for good luck.
Nick and I walked to the stairs hand in hand. "Look the love birds are here." Brian said. I giggled and Nick gave him the finger. "Such a lovely day isn't it?" I asked sarcastically referencing to Brian and Nick. "Oh yeah. For sure." Carli said.
"Sam, are you really wearing a Hawks sweater?" Carli asked.
"It was cold outside and I couldn't find my Wild sweater to wear under the jersey." I replied.
"Right, and if we lose tonight's game it'll be your fault." Brian commented.
"Fine. If you guys lose tonight, I'll treat the team out to dinner one day. If not, then I'll do your homework for a week." I told Brian.
"Deal." We shook hands on it. "Newbie alert." 'Coughed' some other teammates as a girl wearing a Hawks sweater walked passed the Neutral Zone into the office. I looked at Nick who mouthed 'Sorry' to me. He leaned down to kiss my temple. "See if you didn't hit puberty, you wouldn't have to lean to kiss me." I said. Everyone laughed.
Freshman year, Nick was only 5' 3". Now that it's senior year, he's 5' 11 1/2". I swear. I was like 5' 0" freshman year, and now I'm 5' 5". He likes to make fun of me for that.
"Yeah, but you have to tip-toe to kiss me." he replied. "Touché." I said.
"Guys did you hear there's a new kid in homeroom." said another one of Nick's teammates. Nick wrapped an arm around me. "You don't say. I think I just saw her." Nick said sarcastically. The bell rang. Nick and I walked hand in hand to homeroom with a bunch of 'Awws' coming from behind us. We continued to walk. When we arrived at the doors of homeroom, we found it a tradition for the girlfriends to remove the jerseys and handing them to the boyfriends before we entered homeroom doors. We don't know who started it but it's been around for years. Once Nick's jersey was back in Nick's hands we walked into homeroom once the bell rang again.
"Ah. The puck heads are finally in homeroom." said Ms. Jacobson our homeroom teacher.
We all laughed and headed to our seats. A few minutes later the same girl that passed the Neutral Zone walked in. "Ah. Ms. Rodriguez, am I correct?" Ms. Jacobson asked. The girl nodded. "Welcome to Eden Prairie High School." she continued.
"Hey look another Hawks fan!" Brian shouted. I snapped my head towards him.
"Bri." I said.
He put his hands up in defense. "Sorry."
I turned my head back around. Ms. Jacobson laughed. "It's not common to have other hockey teams fans out here besides the Wild. You're not the only one." she paused. "Why don't you sit next to Ms. Anderson." I raised my hand. She walked towards me taking the seat next to me. "Hi, I'm Sam."
"I'm Taylor." she said.
"So what classes do you have?"
"All honors." She said showing me her schedule.
"I have those too. Don't worry. You'll be fine." she smiled.
I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around to see Carli holding up my Wild sweater.
"Who had it?" I asked her.
"Brian." I looked at him and shook my head laughing.
"Students. Face forward for some morning announcements." Ms. Jacobson said.
We all turned to face the TV screen with the announcements running. I quickly changed out of my Hawks sweater to my Wild one.
"In today's events, Eden Prairie Hockey will be playing against Kingsland High School tonight at home for the Minnesota Hockey Semi-Finals. Good Luck to the Eagles."
The team members stood up and cheered, giving their girlfriends their jerseys to wear for the day. We stood up and put on the jerseys. Everyone clapped and cheered, "Go Eagles!" Ms. Jacobson, told everyone to calm down after it started getting all crazy. 1st bell rang and we were dismissed to our first class. I grabbed my bag and books and turned to Taylor. "I could show you around if you want. Since we do have the same classes."
"No, I think it's fine. I'll find my way."
"Are you sure?" I asked adjusting my bag strap.
"Babe, let's go." Nick said walking up to me.
She nodded and walked off.
I watched her walk away. I sighed walking out of homeroom. Nick wrapped an arm around my waist. "What's wrong?" He asked. "I don't know. I feel really bad for the new girl since it's senior year and she doesn't know anyone. It's already the end of the year too." He cupped my face in his hands. "Sam. Everything is alright. She'll figure out Eden Prairie soon enough. In the meantime, let's go we'll be late to Bio, lab partner."
----------------------------------
Later that night, I was getting ready for the game is the girls bathroom. I was talking to Carli about the new girl, Taylor.
"So what do you think about this new girl?" she asked me.
"I think she's okay. I kinda feel bad that she had to transfer in the middle of senior year."
"Well, yeah. Brian heard that she's kinda like an art freak. She loves to draw, paint, sketch and whatever art people do."
"You can't judge a person by what they like. She could be a nice person." I said combing my hair. The door opened and we turned to see that Taylor was walking the room.
"Oh I'm sorry. I. I'll find another one." she quickly turn around and headed for the door.
"Wait." I yelled. She turned back around to face me. "
Are you going to the game tonight? I see you like hockey." I said looking at her Hawks sweater.
"Uhh. Yeah. I was told if I liked hockey, I should experience Minnesota hockey."
"Yeah, you totally should. It's really fun." I said looking at Carli. Carli nudged my side, "That's because your boyfriend is on the team."
"You're Samantha Anderson right?" Taylor asked me.
"Yeah. I was in the same homeroom this morning. I also have all of your classes."
"Oh right. Uhh I was wondering if I could take a picture of you. You know for Human Studies and the semester project coming up. Mr. Conner told me to pair up with you since you had no partner yet."
"Oh cool. What's your medium?"
"Photography. I really like taking pictures."
"That's nice. We'll have to find a time to meet up for the project."
"Okay camera freak." Carli said to Taylor. "Sam, we have to go. Nick told me to tell you that they want everyone participating in Senior Night ceremonies to be there early." Carli grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the bathroom. "I'm so sorry." I told Taylor.
--------------------------------
"Hello is anyone here?" I said slowing opening the door to my potential condo looking for my roommate. "Yes! I'll be out in a second." A voice said. I walked further into the condo and walked around the living room a bit. I saw some picture frames of this girl at various Hawks games, the same girl with her grandparents and a bunch of family pictures. This girl looked so familiar. Where have I seen her before?
"Well, it looks like you have made yourself comfortable." the voice said walking into the living room. I turned around. She literally dropped her jaw. "Samantha Anderson?" she asked. Then it clicked. "Taylor Rodriguez?" she smiled. We squealed slightly and we hugged each other. We sat down on the couch. "What are your doing in Chicago?" she asked me. "I'm actually here for school. I'm going to the culinary school downtown." "What about Nick?"
"Nick and I agreed to have a long distance relationship even though he's still in Minnesota."
"Aww that's so sweet."
I giggled a bit. "Yeah. Isn't he?"
We laughed. "So I don't really need to know anything about you. I'd just let you know, you'll be able to move in."
"Really?" I asked.
"Yeah. You were basically my first and only close friend I had back at EPHS." I hugged her. "Thank you so much!!"
Nick and I were on the way to the airport to pick up his dad for the Father/Son trip. Nick was holding my had as he drove. At the stop light, Nick kissed the back of my hand. I turned my head to face him. I smiled. "So, buttercup. I wondering. What do you want to do for Thanksgiving?" I raised my eyebrow. "But you guys are on the Circus trip during Thanksgiving."
The light turned green and he continued to drive into airport grounds.
"I know. I mean, once we land back from L.A., you and I can go to a restaurant alone just the two of us." Nick said finding a parking spot. He turned off the engine and we both got out of the car. Nick walked around and held my hand as we walked towards the terminal entrance. We walked around as we waited for Nick's dad's plane to land. It was a little chilly in the airport and I shivered slightly. Nick engulfed me in a bear hug as I shivered once again. "Warm?" Nick asked looking down at me. I looked up into his eyes. "Yes. Don't move." I said leaning my head on his chest. He chuckled a bit. Flight 372B from Minneapolis, Minnesota is now landing. We shot up and looked at the T.V. screens for what gate Mike would be landing in. "Gate 8" Nick said. I giggled a bit. "What?" he said looking at me. "I don't know. Gate 8. Your number is 8." I continued to giggle. Nick wrapped his arm around my shoulder as we walked towards Gate 8 to find his dad. A couple minutes after getting there, people were already walking out of the plane. We spotted Nick's dad walk out. "Hey dad!" Nick shouted. Mike looked up and saw the both of us. He smiled and walked towards us. When he reached us, Nick and Mike shared one of those father/son hugs. "It's nice to see you again son." He said. "Nice to see you too, dad." They let go. Mike looked at me and smiled. We shared a hug. "Samantha, it's nice to see you keeping Nick in line." I smiled laughing. "Yes, someone has too." We all laughed. We walked towards the baggage claim to get Mike's luggage. Nick went to find his dad's things as Mike and I stayed behind to catch up.
"Is everything okay in Chicago, Sam?" Mike asked. I looked at his with a puzzled look on my face.
"What do you mean?"
"Like, is everything okay, nothing is bothering you and such. Your parents are asking for an update since you haven't called or e-mailed them in a while." He explained.
"Oh. Everything is going fine. I just finished culinary school and I've been I guess, searching for a job and such. Graduation doesn't come around till May or something so I've been trying to get stuff to do until then."
"That's great. Congratulation Samantha. You definitely deserve it."
"Thank you Mike. I appreciate it."
"So how are you and Nick doing?" He asked and he made a head gesture towards Nick, who was still waiting for his dad's luggage.
"He and I are doing great. We're getting used to the long days and nights away from each other, especially with the Circus Trip coming up later in the month."
"Shouldn't you guys have been used to it by now? I mean, you both were separated during your college years."
I paused for a bit, "I guess that's right. It just seems like, since we've been back together, those years never happened."
"Well I'm glad. Back in Minnesota, Nick would always call my wife and I to see if your parents got any updates on you when you were in Chicago."
I giggled, "He did that?" I asked.
"Yeah, I can tell that he's really protective of you. He has this feeling as a boyfriend that I had when I was dating his mother."
"He is?" I asked.
"You may not see it Samantha, but others can. He loves you. That's all I can say."
I blushed.
"Thank you Mike." I said.
"No problem. You and Nick have been together for so long, I consider you already part of the family."
I laughed a bit. "Funny. My dad said the same thing."
Just then Nick came back with his dad's luggage. "So who's ready for Florida." he said.
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Nick and his dad along with the rest of the Blackhawks and their fathers, were headed to Florida for the father/son trip. When I dropped them off at the United Center, I decided to run some errands. I was walking back to my car for late grocery shopping. The November sky was growing dark and Chicago was transitioning from Fall to Winter. I heard footsteps walk up from behind me. I tried to get a peek of who was behind me. No luck. I heard the footsteps walk faster, I tried to out run the person, all of a sudden the person covered my mouth with their hand preventing me from screaming. I dropped the bags.
"Il mio amore, do not scream." the voice said. My eyes widened, Linguini. {My love}
"If you do, I'll have to hurt you some more." I felt a knife next to my throat. I gulped. I sighed.
"Questa è la mia ragazza." he said dragging me into an alley. {That's my girl.}
He pushed me to the ground and covered my mouth with a piece of tape.
He looked at me sternly like he was thinking about what to do next. He ripped opened my jacket as I blacked out.
I woke up seeing my clothes were ripped and a bunch of scratches all over my body. I also saw blood coming from my legs. I tried to stand up but I couldn't walk. The pain in my legs hurt so much. I realized what just happened. I limped all the way to the car to see the bags still on the floor unharmed. I slowly put them in the trunk and walked to the drivers seat. I drove to the Sharp household, where the girls were holding a baby shower for Abby Sharp and Danielle Scott. I removed the tape from my mouth and winced at the pain I was in just in driving stance.
I let Carli settle in and I sat in the living room with Nick and Marcus. "So how was training camp you guys?"
"You know. It was good. There was a lot of people." Marcus said.
"Yeah, I heard. Every year it's sold out. But tickets are cheap." I said.
"It is. It's nice to see the fans come out in the morning." Nick said.
I turned around as I heard Carli's footsteps enter. "You all ready?" I asked with a smirk. "Ha ha. Yes." She said mocking me. I turned back around. "Marcus this is Carli, Carli this is Marcus." I said introducing them. They shook hands and stared at one another. After a few minutes I leaned in to Nick's ear. "I think they like each other. They haven't said a word for a few minutes." I whispered. Nick wrapped an arm around me. "Kruger's gonna have to watch himself." I laughed removing them from their little trance. "So did you guys have fun staring at each other." Carli started to blush. She pushed me a little bit. "I guess I should get going. It was so nice to meet you Sam and Carli. See you tomorrow Leds." Marcus said. Nick lead Marcus to the door. After Nick closed the door, he turned around. "So ladies, what shall we do today." "I shall go home. Seriously. Taylor can't be trusted alone." I told him.
"Who's Taylor?" Carli asked.
"She's my roommate in my condo."
"Oh. She dating a Hawk?"
"You could say that." I said.
She looked confused.
"Let's just put it this way. Captain Serious isn't trusted."
"Gross Sam. Don't let me think about what could be going on over there." Nick blurted.
"Sorry. I'll see you tomorrow." I said walking towards him kissing his cheek. He smiled. "And you…" I said looking at Carli. "Don't give Nick a hard time." I continued as I hugged her. "Don't worry. I will." I laughed pulling away. "Bye guys!" I waved, walking out the door.
-------------------------------------------------
"So what's going on?" asked Taylor as I cooked breakfast. The sky started growing dark as the fall season of November emerged. "Nick and I are going to pick up his dad at the airport today after lunch. The Hawks are going on the Father/Son trip for a few days while on the mini-road trip in Florida." Her eyes lit up. "Don't ask me if you'll meet papa Tazer. Seriously. You should go ask Jon about that." She grabbed a strawberry from the bowl. "I never said I wasn't." I put my hands up in defense. "Not going to ask, take your pancakes and get out of here." She stuck her tongue out at me. "Whatever Leddy." she said grabbing a pancake. I laughed as I continued to cook a few more cakes.
My phone started ringing, I walked over to see that Carli was calling. I picked up my phone and answered it.
"Yola!" I said flipping the pancake that was currently in the frying pan.
So Sam, Nick said I can stay at his place until I find a place of my own. I was wondering if Miss Chicago could help me find one?
"Yeah, sure no problem. I think there is a place in my building that's for rent. Wait. Does that mean you got the job?" I asked.
If you must know. I did get the job, but I'm also transferring to Columbia.
"Gosh. Congrats girlie."
Thanks. So you said there's a place in your building? She asked.
"Yeah. I can talk to the person if you want. I'll give you all the details."
Thank you so much, Sam. You're the best.
"No problem." I said shutting off the stove.
So you said you had a roommate. Why can I meet her?
"Uhh. You kinda did already." I said flatly.
I did. When? She asked.
"Uh remember that new girl in homeroom Senior year?"
That art freak? She's your roommate?
"To be honest. When I saw my place for rent with a roommate, I didn't know it was her."
I walked to my locker to grab my books for my first class. I looked at the mirror to check my hair. "You do know, you look beautiful everyday. You don't need to check you hair. Even if you look hot wearing my jersey. " I heard Nick say behind me. I turned around to face him. "Thanks hot shot. But your shag of hair isn't your style." I said. He leaned down to kiss my cheek. "Well, if we win tonight's game, I'll let you cut it." I face lit up. "Really?" He nodded. Nick shut my locker as we started to walk away. He draped his arm around me. We headed towards the staircase called the 'Neutral Zone'. It was one of the staircases leading outside to the rink. There was no way anyone could not pass it on the way to class. The main office was across the staircase as well. Most of the hockey team sat of the stairs the morning of a game, before homeroom, for good luck.
Nick and I walked to the stairs hand in hand. "Look the love birds are here." Brian said. I giggled and Nick gave him the finger. "Such a lovely day isn't it?" I asked sarcastically referencing to Brian and Nick. "Oh yeah. For sure." Carli said.
"Sam, are you really wearing a Hawks sweater?" Carli asked.
"It was cold outside and I couldn't find my Wild sweater to wear under the jersey." I replied.
"Right, and if we lose tonight's game it'll be your fault." Brian commented.
"Fine. If you guys lose tonight, I'll treat the team out to dinner one day. If not, then I'll do your homework for a week." I told Brian.
"Deal." We shook hands on it. "Newbie alert." 'Coughed' some other teammates as a girl wearing a Hawks sweater walked passed the Neutral Zone into the office. I looked at Nick who mouthed 'Sorry' to me. He leaned down to kiss my temple. "See if you didn't hit puberty, you wouldn't have to lean to kiss me." I said. Everyone laughed.
Freshman year, Nick was only 5' 3". Now that it's senior year, he's 5' 11 1/2". I swear. I was like 5' 0" freshman year, and now I'm 5' 5". He likes to make fun of me for that.
"Yeah, but you have to tip-toe to kiss me." he replied. "Touché." I said.
"Guys did you hear there's a new kid in homeroom." said another one of Nick's teammates. Nick wrapped an arm around me. "You don't say. I think I just saw her." Nick said sarcastically. The bell rang. Nick and I walked hand in hand to homeroom with a bunch of 'Awws' coming from behind us. We continued to walk. When we arrived at the doors of homeroom, we found it a tradition for the girlfriends to remove the jerseys and handing them to the boyfriends before we entered homeroom doors. We don't know who started it but it's been around for years. Once Nick's jersey was back in Nick's hands we walked into homeroom once the bell rang again.
"Ah. The puck heads are finally in homeroom." said Ms. Jacobson our homeroom teacher.
We all laughed and headed to our seats. A few minutes later the same girl that passed the Neutral Zone walked in. "Ah. Ms. Rodriguez, am I correct?" Ms. Jacobson asked. The girl nodded. "Welcome to Eden Prairie High School." she continued.
"Hey look another Hawks fan!" Brian shouted. I snapped my head towards him.
"Bri." I said.
He put his hands up in defense. "Sorry."
I turned my head back around. Ms. Jacobson laughed. "It's not common to have other hockey teams fans out here besides the Wild. You're not the only one." she paused. "Why don't you sit next to Ms. Anderson." I raised my hand. She walked towards me taking the seat next to me. "Hi, I'm Sam."
"I'm Taylor." she said.
"So what classes do you have?"
"All honors." She said showing me her schedule.
"I have those too. Don't worry. You'll be fine." she smiled.
I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around to see Carli holding up my Wild sweater.
"Who had it?" I asked her.
"Brian." I looked at him and shook my head laughing.
"Students. Face forward for some morning announcements." Ms. Jacobson said.
We all turned to face the TV screen with the announcements running. I quickly changed out of my Hawks sweater to my Wild one.
"In today's events, Eden Prairie Hockey will be playing against Kingsland High School tonight at home for the Minnesota Hockey Semi-Finals. Good Luck to the Eagles."
The team members stood up and cheered, giving their girlfriends their jerseys to wear for the day. We stood up and put on the jerseys. Everyone clapped and cheered, "Go Eagles!" Ms. Jacobson, told everyone to calm down after it started getting all crazy. 1st bell rang and we were dismissed to our first class. I grabbed my bag and books and turned to Taylor. "I could show you around if you want. Since we do have the same classes."
"No, I think it's fine. I'll find my way."
"Are you sure?" I asked adjusting my bag strap.
"Babe, let's go." Nick said walking up to me.
She nodded and walked off.
I watched her walk away. I sighed walking out of homeroom. Nick wrapped an arm around my waist. "What's wrong?" He asked. "I don't know. I feel really bad for the new girl since it's senior year and she doesn't know anyone. It's already the end of the year too." He cupped my face in his hands. "Sam. Everything is alright. She'll figure out Eden Prairie soon enough. In the meantime, let's go we'll be late to Bio, lab partner."
----------------------------------
Later that night, I was getting ready for the game is the girls bathroom. I was talking to Carli about the new girl, Taylor.
"So what do you think about this new girl?" she asked me.
"I think she's okay. I kinda feel bad that she had to transfer in the middle of senior year."
"Well, yeah. Brian heard that she's kinda like an art freak. She loves to draw, paint, sketch and whatever art people do."
"You can't judge a person by what they like. She could be a nice person." I said combing my hair. The door opened and we turned to see that Taylor was walking the room.
"Oh I'm sorry. I. I'll find another one." she quickly turn around and headed for the door.
"Wait." I yelled. She turned back around to face me. "
Are you going to the game tonight? I see you like hockey." I said looking at her Hawks sweater.
"Uhh. Yeah. I was told if I liked hockey, I should experience Minnesota hockey."
"Yeah, you totally should. It's really fun." I said looking at Carli. Carli nudged my side, "That's because your boyfriend is on the team."
"You're Samantha Anderson right?" Taylor asked me.
"Yeah. I was in the same homeroom this morning. I also have all of your classes."
"Oh right. Uhh I was wondering if I could take a picture of you. You know for Human Studies and the semester project coming up. Mr. Conner told me to pair up with you since you had no partner yet."
"Oh cool. What's your medium?"
"Photography. I really like taking pictures."
"That's nice. We'll have to find a time to meet up for the project."
"Okay camera freak." Carli said to Taylor. "Sam, we have to go. Nick told me to tell you that they want everyone participating in Senior Night ceremonies to be there early." Carli grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the bathroom. "I'm so sorry." I told Taylor.
--------------------------------
"Hello is anyone here?" I said slowing opening the door to my potential condo looking for my roommate. "Yes! I'll be out in a second." A voice said. I walked further into the condo and walked around the living room a bit. I saw some picture frames of this girl at various Hawks games, the same girl with her grandparents and a bunch of family pictures. This girl looked so familiar. Where have I seen her before?
"Well, it looks like you have made yourself comfortable." the voice said walking into the living room. I turned around. She literally dropped her jaw. "Samantha Anderson?" she asked. Then it clicked. "Taylor Rodriguez?" she smiled. We squealed slightly and we hugged each other. We sat down on the couch. "What are your doing in Chicago?" she asked me. "I'm actually here for school. I'm going to the culinary school downtown." "What about Nick?"
"Nick and I agreed to have a long distance relationship even though he's still in Minnesota."
"Aww that's so sweet."
I giggled a bit. "Yeah. Isn't he?"
We laughed. "So I don't really need to know anything about you. I'd just let you know, you'll be able to move in."
"Really?" I asked.
"Yeah. You were basically my first and only close friend I had back at EPHS." I hugged her. "Thank you so much!!"
Nick and I were on the way to the airport to pick up his dad for the Father/Son trip. Nick was holding my had as he drove. At the stop light, Nick kissed the back of my hand. I turned my head to face him. I smiled. "So, buttercup. I wondering. What do you want to do for Thanksgiving?" I raised my eyebrow. "But you guys are on the Circus trip during Thanksgiving."
The light turned green and he continued to drive into airport grounds.
"I know. I mean, once we land back from L.A., you and I can go to a restaurant alone just the two of us." Nick said finding a parking spot. He turned off the engine and we both got out of the car. Nick walked around and held my hand as we walked towards the terminal entrance. We walked around as we waited for Nick's dad's plane to land. It was a little chilly in the airport and I shivered slightly. Nick engulfed me in a bear hug as I shivered once again. "Warm?" Nick asked looking down at me. I looked up into his eyes. "Yes. Don't move." I said leaning my head on his chest. He chuckled a bit. Flight 372B from Minneapolis, Minnesota is now landing. We shot up and looked at the T.V. screens for what gate Mike would be landing in. "Gate 8" Nick said. I giggled a bit. "What?" he said looking at me. "I don't know. Gate 8. Your number is 8." I continued to giggle. Nick wrapped his arm around my shoulder as we walked towards Gate 8 to find his dad. A couple minutes after getting there, people were already walking out of the plane. We spotted Nick's dad walk out. "Hey dad!" Nick shouted. Mike looked up and saw the both of us. He smiled and walked towards us. When he reached us, Nick and Mike shared one of those father/son hugs. "It's nice to see you again son." He said. "Nice to see you too, dad." They let go. Mike looked at me and smiled. We shared a hug. "Samantha, it's nice to see you keeping Nick in line." I smiled laughing. "Yes, someone has too." We all laughed. We walked towards the baggage claim to get Mike's luggage. Nick went to find his dad's things as Mike and I stayed behind to catch up.
"Is everything okay in Chicago, Sam?" Mike asked. I looked at his with a puzzled look on my face.
"What do you mean?"
"Like, is everything okay, nothing is bothering you and such. Your parents are asking for an update since you haven't called or e-mailed them in a while." He explained.
"Oh. Everything is going fine. I just finished culinary school and I've been I guess, searching for a job and such. Graduation doesn't come around till May or something so I've been trying to get stuff to do until then."
"That's great. Congratulation Samantha. You definitely deserve it."
"Thank you Mike. I appreciate it."
"So how are you and Nick doing?" He asked and he made a head gesture towards Nick, who was still waiting for his dad's luggage.
"He and I are doing great. We're getting used to the long days and nights away from each other, especially with the Circus Trip coming up later in the month."
"Shouldn't you guys have been used to it by now? I mean, you both were separated during your college years."
I paused for a bit, "I guess that's right. It just seems like, since we've been back together, those years never happened."
"Well I'm glad. Back in Minnesota, Nick would always call my wife and I to see if your parents got any updates on you when you were in Chicago."
I giggled, "He did that?" I asked.
"Yeah, I can tell that he's really protective of you. He has this feeling as a boyfriend that I had when I was dating his mother."
"He is?" I asked.
"You may not see it Samantha, but others can. He loves you. That's all I can say."
I blushed.
"Thank you Mike." I said.
"No problem. You and Nick have been together for so long, I consider you already part of the family."
I laughed a bit. "Funny. My dad said the same thing."
Just then Nick came back with his dad's luggage. "So who's ready for Florida." he said.
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Nick and his dad along with the rest of the Blackhawks and their fathers, were headed to Florida for the father/son trip. When I dropped them off at the United Center, I decided to run some errands. I was walking back to my car for late grocery shopping. The November sky was growing dark and Chicago was transitioning from Fall to Winter. I heard footsteps walk up from behind me. I tried to get a peek of who was behind me. No luck. I heard the footsteps walk faster, I tried to out run the person, all of a sudden the person covered my mouth with their hand preventing me from screaming. I dropped the bags.
"Il mio amore, do not scream." the voice said. My eyes widened, Linguini. {My love}
"If you do, I'll have to hurt you some more." I felt a knife next to my throat. I gulped. I sighed.
"Questa è la mia ragazza." he said dragging me into an alley. {That's my girl.}
He pushed me to the ground and covered my mouth with a piece of tape.
He looked at me sternly like he was thinking about what to do next. He ripped opened my jacket as I blacked out.
I woke up seeing my clothes were ripped and a bunch of scratches all over my body. I also saw blood coming from my legs. I tried to stand up but I couldn't walk. The pain in my legs hurt so much. I realized what just happened. I limped all the way to the car to see the bags still on the floor unharmed. I slowly put them in the trunk and walked to the drivers seat. I drove to the Sharp household, where the girls were holding a baby shower for Abby Sharp and Danielle Scott. I removed the tape from my mouth and winced at the pain I was in just in driving stance.
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I woke up to the morning sun seeping through the shades. I looked to my side to see nothing but a note. Nick must have left for the Training Camp Festival. I shifted in a position where I could read the note.
Morning Buttercup,
You probably noticed that I'm gone and today's the Training Camp Festival at the UC. I won't be back for a while but if you need anything, here's my card. I know you hate smooching money off of people but think of it as a welcome home present from me. Treat yourself. Take care.
Love,
Nick
I looked at the credit card blankly, picked it up and walked to the kitchen for breakfast. Might as well take advantage of this opportunity. I placed the card on the kitchen counter and walked to the bread box. I put two slices of toast in the toaster. There was a knock on the door. "Who is it?" I asked walking to the door and opened it. There stood a girl around my age, she looked vaguely familiar but I couldn't remember where from. "Oh Hello. I must be at the wrong condo. I'm looking for my cousin, Nick." Then it hit me.
"No your at the right place, Carli."
She looked a little taken back. "Do I know you?"
"Carli, it's me, Sam." She shook her head, " Samantha Anderson?" I asked. She leaped a little and pulled me into a hug. "Oh My Gosh, Sam!! What are you doing here?" She pulled away. "Isn't this Nick's place?" "Come on in and I explain this to you." She entered the condo and we walked to the kitchen which revealed the my toast was done. "You didn't answer me missy. What are you doing here?" "You should sit down first." I demanded. She smiled and took a seat. "This better be good."
I explained everything, from my trip to Italy, going to the convention, Nick and I reuniting, and everything to the present. "Seriously. That's over the top adorable." I blushed. "You think?"
"Yeah, this would have been so much amount of luck with Nick getting traded to Chicago."
I sighed. "Yeah, I thought about that. I was in shock for a moment."
"Speaking of my cousin, where is he?" She asked. I swallowed a sip of orange juice.
"He's at the Hawks Training Camp Festival. It doesn't end till like four, so Nick gave me his credit card to do whatever."
A smirk spread on her face. "Then let's use it."
I put my hands out, "Wait. Why are YOU here Carli?"
"Well, if you must know, I'm actually visiting Nick for his mom, because she's worried about him and such. But I also have a job interview with Broadway in Chicago."
"Oh My Gosh. That's awesome, congrats."
"Okay, okay. On with business. Today is the chance to smooch off my cousin. Get dressed girly and let's hit downtown." she said shoving me towards the room. I stopped her and turned around.
"Actually, I have nothing here Carls. I just slept over last night because we went out and it was too late to go back to my condo."
"Okay. No need for your sex life Sam."
I threw a pillow at her. "For clarification, we did NOT do anything." I grabbed my keys and headed towards the door. "You coming?"
"Yes!"
We successfully found my car. Thank you Nick for car pooling. We hopped in and I drove to my condo. When I parked I told Carli to stay in the car. I quickly ran to the elevators and up to my condo. I opened the door, almost breaking it. "Tay?" I called out. No answer. I saw a note on the on the counter from Taylor. What's up with everyone and notes?
Leddy,
I forgot that I get a free ticket to the training camp today and I'm currently there if you are reading this. See you later.
Toews
I rolled my eyes and threw the note in the recycle bin. I sprinted to my room and changed into my red plaid shirt and jean shorts. I slipped on my red VANS and took my tote and took out my wallet placing Nick's card in a card slot. I rushed to the mirror, brushed my hair and took my bangs and clipped them onto the side. I checked out in the mirror and sighed. All done. I rushed back out to my car.
"Did you race to get dressed?" She asked when I slipped into the drivers seat.
I took a breather. "Yeah, I guess."
"Okay. Subject change. I heard Michigan Ave. is like awesome to shop around."
I turned my head towards her, "Girl you have no idea. I love shopping there." I started my car and drove towards Michigan Ave. searching for parking spot. After a 10 minutes of driving around, Carli couldn't wait anymore so I drove to those parking garages. We got out of the car.
"Okay, Miss Chicago, where to first?"
"We could start on the streets and make our way to the Water Tower Place." I suggested.
"Sounds okay with me. Let's go!" We walked a few blocks. "Look there's Victoria's Secret. Sam, we HAVE to go in there."
"For me or for you?" I asked.
"For you silly." I sighed and shook my head as Carli dragged me to the store entrance. I squinted as I entered with her.
"Sam, stop being such a baby." she said.
"Me, a baby? Your trying to get the news on my sex life with your cousin whom I'm dating."
"What? I know the Hawks have this like circus trip and are away for two weeks. Wouldn't you want to give Nick a 'Welcome Back' present?"
I shook my head. "I would. Not like this."
"Well, suck it up girlie. Your going to be looking for something."
"Have you not met my parents!?" I exclaimed.
"Actually I have. They seem legit." I raised an eyebrow. "Really Carli, they seem legit?"
She shrugged, "Well, what they don't know won't hurt them."
I stared at her blankly. "Really?"
"Yes, really. Sam, you just turned 20. Your parents don't really have legal control over your decisions. It's not like their continuing to check."
I rubbed the back of my neck.
"Are you for real? They still ask a doctor to check if you lost your v-card?" She exclaimed. I looked around the store making sure no one was staring.
"Will you keep it down and yes, they still do. They apparently don't want me making the same mistake my mom did when she had me. She basically gave up everything that way she could take care of me while my dad had to find a way to get money."
"But they made you in the process which isn't a mistake."
"Well by mistake I meant by giving up everything at such a young age."
"When did your parents have you again?"
"I think it was after high school graduation."
"Oh right." I nodded.
Carli walked over to the lingerie as I stood awkwardly, watching her pick something out.
"Sam, do something."
"Do what? I'm socially awkward with this stuff."
"Well, you wouldn't be in this mess, if you would have done it with Nick when your weren't at Prom."
"So Sam, any plans for tomorrow night with Nick?" asked Maya, the Regina George of Eden Prairie.
I shrugged. "I don't know yet."
"Aren't you going to prom?" Carli asked.
"Not sure. Nick and the guys have a state game tomorrow night. Nick doesn't know when the game is at exactly."
"Like time wise?" Carli asked.
I nodded, "Yeah. Plus it's totally fine. I'm cool without going to Prom. It's to the biggest deal in the world."
Maya stared at me blankly. "It is too, Sam. It's the time when most girls lose their v-card."
"Well, I'm not going to be one of them." I insisted.
She smirked, "Knowing Leddy, it could happen." She walked away.
I looked at Carli, "Am I suppose to know what that means?"
She put her hands up in defense. "I know nothing. I swear on my heart. Nothing."
I rolled my eyes. "Let's go home."
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I walked downstairs that early Saturday morning or as the rest of my senior class would say prom day. I hear three different voices. Who could be here? I rubbed my eyes and saw my parents with Nick. I walked over to him and gave him a long hug. He kissed my temple. "I'm sorry about all this. I wish we didn't have this game so I could make it up to you." He said as we walked to the kitchen counter with the breakfast my mom spread out. "It's fine Nick. Prom is just another waste of time and money as I see it. Plus it's senior year, you only my state finals once in your lifetime." I said.
"Sweetie, what are you going to do with your dress?" my mom asked.
"I don't know. Maybe use it for a formal event thing, I guess. Thankfully it's a short dress so I can re-use it."
"Okay. I just didn't want you to feel like we wasted money on something your not going to wear."
"It's fine mom. Honestly. "
"Sam, Nick was talking to us earlier and asked if you could come to the game tonight at the Xcel Energy Center. Since his family will be there, we all agreed that you two could have like a road-trip or something until Tuesday after the game tonight." My dad said.
My eyes widened, "and your letting me do this?"
"Your father and I thought that it could be another bonding opportunity for the both of you before graduation." I smiled and turned to Nick. "This is awesome." I told him.
"Why don't you go pack?" my dad suggested.
"Yeah, Coach said that we could meet the team there and what not, then after practice at the Xcel, we could check in wherever." Nick added, "Well, I have to get everything for the game. Thank you so much for letting Sam do this."
My parents smiled. "It's not a problem Nick."
"I'll come get you in a few hours." He kissed my cheek and walked out the door.
I turned to my parents. "What's up?"
"What are you talking about?" my dad said.
"You usually never let me go out with overnight stuff. Just last year, it took Carli and I like 10 days of convincing you guys to let me sleep over at her house." I explained.
"Well, your father and I think that you are mature enough to handle some things on your own. Especially now that you are a senior, we need to let go and let your grow up." my mom said.
"Thank you so much!!!" I said hugging the both of them. I rushed to my room and started packing everything that I need. I grabbed my phone and texted Nick what exactly I needed to bring. We are staying for a few days. He texted me back with the different events. I searched my closet for all the necessities I needed for this trip. I packed all of my things within the next hour. I changed for the game and dragged my suitcase down the stairs to my parents sitting around the couch conversing.
"What's all this?"
"Well sweetie. Since you didn't really get to experience something that all, we wanted to give you a credit card. We know that you've been working hard not only in school but at work." After school and on weekends, I'd work at the local community center teaching little kids how to skate regardless if it they were taking up figure skating or hockey.
"Your giving me my own credit card!?!?!" I said half excited. They nodded, "But remember emergencies only. We trust you to have this." My dad said handing the card to me. I slipped out my wallet and placed it in there. A car drove up and honked. I took a peek and saw that it was Nick. "Samantha, remember to keep safe okay." my mom said. I hugged her. "I will." I went to my dad and hugged him. "Nothing bad will happen I promise to keep the promise." He pulled away. "Good." He kissed my forehead. "Tell Nick, good luck." I grabbed my things, "Will do." I walked out the door towards Nick's car. He got out and helped me put my things in the trunk. We waved good-bye to my parents and drove off for the Xcel Energy Center.
After 30 minutes of driving to St. Paul, arrived at the home of the Minnesota Wild. Nick parked the car and we got out. "We have practice on the ice in a few. You're welcomed to come with." I smiled. "I'd like that." Nick grabbed his things for practice and we walked into the area. Nick went to the locker room to get ready while I walked around to find the ice. I found a seat behind the players bench and sat down. Practice lasted about an hour especially on game days. I went back down to the locker room to wait for Nick. My phone started buzzing. It was Carli.
Sam, Maya's bugging me if your going tonight? She said on the other side.
"No." I said flatly.
No?? Why!?
"This game is way to important to Nick to be missing out just for Prom. Just not Nick but the rest of the guys on the team." I explained.
Yes, but Prom is on once in a life time.
"Well, I'll never get that experience. Besides, after the game, Nick and I are staying in Minneapolis for a few days."
Well well well, looks like the senior class sweethearts are hitting it up! I heard Maya say on the other side.
"Maya? Carli why is Maya on the phone?" I asked.
She's uh helping me getting ready. I sighed. "Have fun you too." I hung up. I leaned on the wall and slid down, sitting on the floor. I put my head down almost in the verge of tears. I heard the footsteps of the guys. I looked up to see Nick walk up. He rushed over to me, "What happened? What's wrong butter cup?" I shook my head and leaned towards his ear that way none of his teammates heard me. "Maya is just upset that I'm not going to Prom and she's been pressuring me to lose my virginity. I've explained to her a number of times what my parents have said about that." I whispered. Nick pulled me into a hug and stroked my hair. "She shouldn't be upset. It's your decision to support me and the guys at this game. Which is why I love you. Most of the guys' girls were upset that they couldn't go. But you accepted to support us. Secondly, I would never pressure you to have sex, Sam. You know me. Sure I may joke around with you when we kiss and stuff but I wouldn't make you do something that your uncomfortable with." He pulled away and kissed my forehead. "We'll always have more adventures together than going to prom." I laughed.
We heard another pair of steps and turned around. "Sam, you are actually here. I thought Leds was just bluffing." said Coach Smith.
"Yes I am Coach and nope. I chose to be here rather than Prom." I said.
Coach Smith patted Nick on the back, "She's a keeper, Leds. Treat her well."
I smiled. "Will do Coach." he said.
"See you both later." He said walking out the door.
"See Sam. That wasn't so bad was it?" Carli asked as we walked out of Victoria's Secret. I shrugged. "Not really. Glad I didn't buy anything."
"Oh hush. I have things I need." I laughed shaking my head.
"Whatever, let's keep on shopping."
Morning Buttercup,
You probably noticed that I'm gone and today's the Training Camp Festival at the UC. I won't be back for a while but if you need anything, here's my card. I know you hate smooching money off of people but think of it as a welcome home present from me. Treat yourself. Take care.
Love,
Nick
I looked at the credit card blankly, picked it up and walked to the kitchen for breakfast. Might as well take advantage of this opportunity. I placed the card on the kitchen counter and walked to the bread box. I put two slices of toast in the toaster. There was a knock on the door. "Who is it?" I asked walking to the door and opened it. There stood a girl around my age, she looked vaguely familiar but I couldn't remember where from. "Oh Hello. I must be at the wrong condo. I'm looking for my cousin, Nick." Then it hit me.
"No your at the right place, Carli."
She looked a little taken back. "Do I know you?"
"Carli, it's me, Sam." She shook her head, " Samantha Anderson?" I asked. She leaped a little and pulled me into a hug. "Oh My Gosh, Sam!! What are you doing here?" She pulled away. "Isn't this Nick's place?" "Come on in and I explain this to you." She entered the condo and we walked to the kitchen which revealed the my toast was done. "You didn't answer me missy. What are you doing here?" "You should sit down first." I demanded. She smiled and took a seat. "This better be good."
I explained everything, from my trip to Italy, going to the convention, Nick and I reuniting, and everything to the present. "Seriously. That's over the top adorable." I blushed. "You think?"
"Yeah, this would have been so much amount of luck with Nick getting traded to Chicago."
I sighed. "Yeah, I thought about that. I was in shock for a moment."
"Speaking of my cousin, where is he?" She asked. I swallowed a sip of orange juice.
"He's at the Hawks Training Camp Festival. It doesn't end till like four, so Nick gave me his credit card to do whatever."
A smirk spread on her face. "Then let's use it."
I put my hands out, "Wait. Why are YOU here Carli?"
"Well, if you must know, I'm actually visiting Nick for his mom, because she's worried about him and such. But I also have a job interview with Broadway in Chicago."
"Oh My Gosh. That's awesome, congrats."
"Okay, okay. On with business. Today is the chance to smooch off my cousin. Get dressed girly and let's hit downtown." she said shoving me towards the room. I stopped her and turned around.
"Actually, I have nothing here Carls. I just slept over last night because we went out and it was too late to go back to my condo."
"Okay. No need for your sex life Sam."
I threw a pillow at her. "For clarification, we did NOT do anything." I grabbed my keys and headed towards the door. "You coming?"
"Yes!"
We successfully found my car. Thank you Nick for car pooling. We hopped in and I drove to my condo. When I parked I told Carli to stay in the car. I quickly ran to the elevators and up to my condo. I opened the door, almost breaking it. "Tay?" I called out. No answer. I saw a note on the on the counter from Taylor. What's up with everyone and notes?
Leddy,
I forgot that I get a free ticket to the training camp today and I'm currently there if you are reading this. See you later.
Toews
I rolled my eyes and threw the note in the recycle bin. I sprinted to my room and changed into my red plaid shirt and jean shorts. I slipped on my red VANS and took my tote and took out my wallet placing Nick's card in a card slot. I rushed to the mirror, brushed my hair and took my bangs and clipped them onto the side. I checked out in the mirror and sighed. All done. I rushed back out to my car.
"Did you race to get dressed?" She asked when I slipped into the drivers seat.
I took a breather. "Yeah, I guess."
"Okay. Subject change. I heard Michigan Ave. is like awesome to shop around."
I turned my head towards her, "Girl you have no idea. I love shopping there." I started my car and drove towards Michigan Ave. searching for parking spot. After a 10 minutes of driving around, Carli couldn't wait anymore so I drove to those parking garages. We got out of the car.
"Okay, Miss Chicago, where to first?"
"We could start on the streets and make our way to the Water Tower Place." I suggested.
"Sounds okay with me. Let's go!" We walked a few blocks. "Look there's Victoria's Secret. Sam, we HAVE to go in there."
"For me or for you?" I asked.
"For you silly." I sighed and shook my head as Carli dragged me to the store entrance. I squinted as I entered with her.
"Sam, stop being such a baby." she said.
"Me, a baby? Your trying to get the news on my sex life with your cousin whom I'm dating."
"What? I know the Hawks have this like circus trip and are away for two weeks. Wouldn't you want to give Nick a 'Welcome Back' present?"
I shook my head. "I would. Not like this."
"Well, suck it up girlie. Your going to be looking for something."
"Have you not met my parents!?" I exclaimed.
"Actually I have. They seem legit." I raised an eyebrow. "Really Carli, they seem legit?"
She shrugged, "Well, what they don't know won't hurt them."
I stared at her blankly. "Really?"
"Yes, really. Sam, you just turned 20. Your parents don't really have legal control over your decisions. It's not like their continuing to check."
I rubbed the back of my neck.
"Are you for real? They still ask a doctor to check if you lost your v-card?" She exclaimed. I looked around the store making sure no one was staring.
"Will you keep it down and yes, they still do. They apparently don't want me making the same mistake my mom did when she had me. She basically gave up everything that way she could take care of me while my dad had to find a way to get money."
"But they made you in the process which isn't a mistake."
"Well by mistake I meant by giving up everything at such a young age."
"When did your parents have you again?"
"I think it was after high school graduation."
"Oh right." I nodded.
Carli walked over to the lingerie as I stood awkwardly, watching her pick something out.
"Sam, do something."
"Do what? I'm socially awkward with this stuff."
"Well, you wouldn't be in this mess, if you would have done it with Nick when your weren't at Prom."
"So Sam, any plans for tomorrow night with Nick?" asked Maya, the Regina George of Eden Prairie.
I shrugged. "I don't know yet."
"Aren't you going to prom?" Carli asked.
"Not sure. Nick and the guys have a state game tomorrow night. Nick doesn't know when the game is at exactly."
"Like time wise?" Carli asked.
I nodded, "Yeah. Plus it's totally fine. I'm cool without going to Prom. It's to the biggest deal in the world."
Maya stared at me blankly. "It is too, Sam. It's the time when most girls lose their v-card."
"Well, I'm not going to be one of them." I insisted.
She smirked, "Knowing Leddy, it could happen." She walked away.
I looked at Carli, "Am I suppose to know what that means?"
She put her hands up in defense. "I know nothing. I swear on my heart. Nothing."
I rolled my eyes. "Let's go home."
--------------------------------------
I walked downstairs that early Saturday morning or as the rest of my senior class would say prom day. I hear three different voices. Who could be here? I rubbed my eyes and saw my parents with Nick. I walked over to him and gave him a long hug. He kissed my temple. "I'm sorry about all this. I wish we didn't have this game so I could make it up to you." He said as we walked to the kitchen counter with the breakfast my mom spread out. "It's fine Nick. Prom is just another waste of time and money as I see it. Plus it's senior year, you only my state finals once in your lifetime." I said.
"Sweetie, what are you going to do with your dress?" my mom asked.
"I don't know. Maybe use it for a formal event thing, I guess. Thankfully it's a short dress so I can re-use it."
"Okay. I just didn't want you to feel like we wasted money on something your not going to wear."
"It's fine mom. Honestly. "
"Sam, Nick was talking to us earlier and asked if you could come to the game tonight at the Xcel Energy Center. Since his family will be there, we all agreed that you two could have like a road-trip or something until Tuesday after the game tonight." My dad said.
My eyes widened, "and your letting me do this?"
"Your father and I thought that it could be another bonding opportunity for the both of you before graduation." I smiled and turned to Nick. "This is awesome." I told him.
"Why don't you go pack?" my dad suggested.
"Yeah, Coach said that we could meet the team there and what not, then after practice at the Xcel, we could check in wherever." Nick added, "Well, I have to get everything for the game. Thank you so much for letting Sam do this."
My parents smiled. "It's not a problem Nick."
"I'll come get you in a few hours." He kissed my cheek and walked out the door.
I turned to my parents. "What's up?"
"What are you talking about?" my dad said.
"You usually never let me go out with overnight stuff. Just last year, it took Carli and I like 10 days of convincing you guys to let me sleep over at her house." I explained.
"Well, your father and I think that you are mature enough to handle some things on your own. Especially now that you are a senior, we need to let go and let your grow up." my mom said.
"Thank you so much!!!" I said hugging the both of them. I rushed to my room and started packing everything that I need. I grabbed my phone and texted Nick what exactly I needed to bring. We are staying for a few days. He texted me back with the different events. I searched my closet for all the necessities I needed for this trip. I packed all of my things within the next hour. I changed for the game and dragged my suitcase down the stairs to my parents sitting around the couch conversing.
"What's all this?"
"Well sweetie. Since you didn't really get to experience something that all, we wanted to give you a credit card. We know that you've been working hard not only in school but at work." After school and on weekends, I'd work at the local community center teaching little kids how to skate regardless if it they were taking up figure skating or hockey.
"Your giving me my own credit card!?!?!" I said half excited. They nodded, "But remember emergencies only. We trust you to have this." My dad said handing the card to me. I slipped out my wallet and placed it in there. A car drove up and honked. I took a peek and saw that it was Nick. "Samantha, remember to keep safe okay." my mom said. I hugged her. "I will." I went to my dad and hugged him. "Nothing bad will happen I promise to keep the promise." He pulled away. "Good." He kissed my forehead. "Tell Nick, good luck." I grabbed my things, "Will do." I walked out the door towards Nick's car. He got out and helped me put my things in the trunk. We waved good-bye to my parents and drove off for the Xcel Energy Center.
After 30 minutes of driving to St. Paul, arrived at the home of the Minnesota Wild. Nick parked the car and we got out. "We have practice on the ice in a few. You're welcomed to come with." I smiled. "I'd like that." Nick grabbed his things for practice and we walked into the area. Nick went to the locker room to get ready while I walked around to find the ice. I found a seat behind the players bench and sat down. Practice lasted about an hour especially on game days. I went back down to the locker room to wait for Nick. My phone started buzzing. It was Carli.
Sam, Maya's bugging me if your going tonight? She said on the other side.
"No." I said flatly.
No?? Why!?
"This game is way to important to Nick to be missing out just for Prom. Just not Nick but the rest of the guys on the team." I explained.
Yes, but Prom is on once in a life time.
"Well, I'll never get that experience. Besides, after the game, Nick and I are staying in Minneapolis for a few days."
Well well well, looks like the senior class sweethearts are hitting it up! I heard Maya say on the other side.
"Maya? Carli why is Maya on the phone?" I asked.
She's uh helping me getting ready. I sighed. "Have fun you too." I hung up. I leaned on the wall and slid down, sitting on the floor. I put my head down almost in the verge of tears. I heard the footsteps of the guys. I looked up to see Nick walk up. He rushed over to me, "What happened? What's wrong butter cup?" I shook my head and leaned towards his ear that way none of his teammates heard me. "Maya is just upset that I'm not going to Prom and she's been pressuring me to lose my virginity. I've explained to her a number of times what my parents have said about that." I whispered. Nick pulled me into a hug and stroked my hair. "She shouldn't be upset. It's your decision to support me and the guys at this game. Which is why I love you. Most of the guys' girls were upset that they couldn't go. But you accepted to support us. Secondly, I would never pressure you to have sex, Sam. You know me. Sure I may joke around with you when we kiss and stuff but I wouldn't make you do something that your uncomfortable with." He pulled away and kissed my forehead. "We'll always have more adventures together than going to prom." I laughed.
We heard another pair of steps and turned around. "Sam, you are actually here. I thought Leds was just bluffing." said Coach Smith.
"Yes I am Coach and nope. I chose to be here rather than Prom." I said.
Coach Smith patted Nick on the back, "She's a keeper, Leds. Treat her well."
I smiled. "Will do Coach." he said.
"See you both later." He said walking out the door.
"See Sam. That wasn't so bad was it?" Carli asked as we walked out of Victoria's Secret. I shrugged. "Not really. Glad I didn't buy anything."
"Oh hush. I have things I need." I laughed shaking my head.
"Whatever, let's keep on shopping."
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