Therapy is Good for the Soul

Bailey had barely paid the fare and gotten out of the cab, when Brad grabbed her from behind and picked her up and spun her around. “BAILEY! Thank God you’re here! You need to calm our boy and help him get his head in the game.”

“Please put me down.” Bailey still felt nauseous from the turbulent plane ride and Brad’s jostling wasn’t helping things.

“Oh yeah, sorry. I’m just glad you’re here! You have no idea how crazy worried Tyler’s been about you.”

“What are you talkin about?”

“He’s been freaking out ever since you told him you changed your flight, thinking you weren’t coming or something.”

“I don’t understand why he’d be afraid I wasn’t comin; I told him I was flyin out late this mornin.”

“All I know is he was really off his game last night and again this morning. You know how he feels about you being his lucky charm, so when you weren’t there as originally planned I think he just kind of panicked.”

“I know he’s been kind of crazy about that this year, but I can’t believe me missin one game could make that big of a deal. I’ve only been to one away game this whole season, so he knows he doesn’t need me to win.”

“But this is the playoffs and if we win this series we’re in the Stanley Cup finals. This is a much bigger deal, so we can use all the help we can get, and for Tyler that means having you here."

“Well if that’s all it is, you both can relax, because I’m here now and wild horses couldn’t keep me away from the game tomorrow. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to use the ladies’ room and check-in.”

“Yeah of course. Glad you’re here.” He kissed Bailey on her cheek and held the door open to the hotel for her. “See you later Bailey.”

“Bye Brad.” As soon as she was inside, she made a beeline for the bathroom. When she came out it was like déjà vu, only this time it was Tyler that swept her off her feet and spun her around. “Tyler please put me down.”

“Sorry, I’m just so glad you’re finally here!” He set her down and kissed the top of her head, then the tip of her nose.

“I told you I would be.”

“I know, but it’s such a relief to know you’re actually here and to be able to hold you.” He wrapped his arms back around her and pulled her into his chest.

“You’re silly, but I’m glad me bein here makes you feel better. Now, will you please let go, so I can check-in?"

“No need, you’re rooming with me.” He grinned from ear to ear as he released her from the embrace.

“I didn’t think that was allowed?”

“It’s not, but Bergy pulled some strings for me. Apparently the coaching staff and team seems to think you’re good for me and can help me get my head out of my ass and back in the game. No idea where they’d get that idea.” He smirked as he placed his arm around her shoulder and pulled her suitcase with his other hand, while guiding them towards the elevators.

Bailey turned to face Tyler, while they waited for the elevator. Her face became solemn as she spoke. “Tyler, you know I would have been here last night if I could have been, right?” He just smiled and bent down to kiss her lips softly, before taking her hand and pulling her onto the elevator. “I really am sorry, I wasn’t here for you.” She wrapped her free arm around his waist and nestled into his chest.

“It’s ok Bay, you’re here now. Just promise you’ll call next time, I was worried about you.” He kissed the top of her head and pulled her in even closer to his body.

“I’m so sorry I upset you and messed up your game! Please forgive me!”

Tyler tightened their embrace when she started shedding tears as she spoke. “Bay, it’s not anyone’s fault that I played like shit last night, but my own, so there’s nothing to forgive. Come on, let’s get you settled; I think maybe you’re over tired and need some rest.” He kissed the top of her head and led her to their room when the elevator doors opened.

Once inside the room, Bailey pulled herself back into Tyler’s chest and whimpered. “I love you Tyler!”

“I love you too. I told you we’re all good, so there’s no need for tears.” He soothingly rubbed her back, when his words only seemed to make her cry even more. “Bay, I know you would have been here if you could have. I promise I’m not upset, so please stop crying.”

“I don’t want you to hate me!” Her words were barely audible, but not muted enough for Tyler to miss.

“Bay, look at me.” He pulled her chin up with his fingers until her eyes were on his. He wiped away her tears, then rubbed his thumb in soothing circles against her cheek. “There’s absolutely nothing you could ever do to make me hate you! I will always love you. I know Brad told you I kind of wigged out last night, but I just got in my own head and let the pressure of the playoffs get to me. I swear I don’t blame you! It’s really not a big deal, so please stop stressing about this!” He brought his lips to hers for a warm and tender kiss. “Bay, I know you’ve got a lot on your plate and I’m sorry I haven’t been around as much or as supportive as I should be. But I promise that’s going to change, playoffs or not. If you need my help to plan our wedding or if you just need to talk about your parents, just let me know. I don’t want you to feel so overwhelmed and to stress over the little things. I’m going to be there for you no matter what.”

“No matter what?”

“No matter what!” He reassured her.

Bailey gave him a small smile and stretched up to kiss his lips. “I’m goin to hold you to that.”

“You’ve got it! Now no more tears, ok? I want you to enjoy yourself and relax the rest of this trip.”

“I’ll try.” She sniffled and gave him the best smile she could muster.

Tyler kissed the top of her head and cradled her in his arms for several minutes before gently breaking their embrace. He pulled her suitcase to the closet and put her backpack on the table. She wiped away the residue from her tears, walked over to the windows, and pulled the curtains open. Tyler approached her from behind and snaked his arms around her waist.

“Quite a view isn’t it?” He pressed his lips to her neck, just below her ear.

“It’s amazing!”

“As incredible as that view is, I think I like this one better.”

She moaned as he began a gentle assault of kisses along her neck, then down to her right shoulder.
He turned Bailey so she was facing him so their eyes could meet. He saw a twinkle in her eyes promising something sweet as the sunlight reflected in the room, letting him know her mood had brightened. He took her lower lip softly and they both felt fire when he moved to her top lip. Bailey’s mind began to swirl with each touch. She caught her breath with a sigh, opening her mouth and inviting Tyler in for more. He let out a soft growl as if a wolf awakened when he sealed his lips with hers and let their tongues engage. He slowly slid his hands up her spine to the nape of her hair. It was a strong tender grip on the threads of her hair that resulted in a shiver and a moan from her. They were both hungry with desire and longing as they continued this most delicious and heavenly kiss.
Bailey blushed as she felt the burning increase as the kiss continued. She became consumed with lust like a beautiful fire aflame as Tyler moved them towards the bed. He sensually slid his hands down her back until he reached the hem of her shirt. She raised her arms overhead allowing him to pull the shirt off and throw it on the floor. Tyler leaned forward pushing them both down onto the bed. He moved his hands gingerly up and down her legs. Her lacy bra became the next object of his affections. He traced his fingers across the edges, up and down the straps, and eventually just over the cups. Just as he reached underneath her to unfasten it, Bailey pushed Tyler off her, rolled off the bed, and ran into the bathroom leaving Tyler in shock and disbelief. His disappointment quickly turned into concern, when he pushed open the bathroom door and saw Bailey leaning over the toilet retching her guts out.

“Don’t’ come in!” Bailey screamed in embarrassment between heaves.

“Bay, let me help.”

“Please go away! I don’t want you to see me like this!”

Tyler soaked a washcloth in warm water and knelt down behind Bailey placing it on the back of her neck. “I’ve already seen you much worse than this before; remember?”

“Yes, but I wasn’t coherent then and couldn’t stop you.”

“Well you can’t stop me now either. Bay, we’re about to take vows that say in sickness and in health. You took care of me when I was sick, now it’s my turn. No matter what you say, I’m not going anywhere.” He kissed the top of her head and before she could protest another wave of nausea consumed her. He rubbed her back while she expelled the contents of her stomach. In between heaves, she leaned on him for support. Once she felt her stomach had settled, Tyler handed her the washcloth and helped her off the floor. “Guess that flight really did play a number on your stomach.”

Still feeling a bit queasy, Bailey gave him a half grin and nodded her head in agreement. “Yeah, I guess it did.” She looked at herself in the mirror and quickly turned the water on to splash her flushed face a few times. She then grabbed Tyler’s toothbrush and brushed her teeth before rinsing her mouth out with his mouthwash. “Thanks for stayin with me. Sorry I spoiled the mood.”

Tyler bent down and kissed her softly on the lips. “It’s ok, they’ll be plenty of time for that later. Right now, I think we should get you in bed for some rest.” He took her hand and guided her to the king size bed. He pulled the covers down and helped Bailey get settled in the bed. He picked her shirt off the floor and gave it to her so she wouldn’t get cold.

“Would you mind bringin me my backpack?”

“Of course not.” He kissed her cheek and went to the table to get her backpack. After he gave it to her, he plugged in his phone to charge. “I’m going to go get you a sprite to help calm your stomach. Do you want anything else?” When he turned back around to face her, he immediately got pissed when he saw a sleeve of saltine crackers and a bottle of ginger ale on the bed. “What the Fuck!?! I can’t believe you would do this to me! You fucking knew you were sick and you kissed me! You used my toothbrush for Christ’s sake! My God Bailey, we almost made love! What the Hell were you thinking? You know we’re in the middle of the Goddamn playoffs; I can’t afford to get sick!! How could you be so fucking stupid!?! I hope you’re happy; you’ve put the entire fucking team and me at risk! Why the fuck would you do that?”

“You done?”

“NO! I want a fucking answer!” He picked up the sleeve of crackers and crushed them before throwing them across the room.

“I’m not contagious, asshole! I’m pregnant!” She threw the ginger ale at him, just missing his head thanks to Tyler’s quick reflexes. Sobbing, she ran into the bathroom slamming the door behind her, leaving him standing there alone in complete shock.

It took a few minutes for Bailey’s words to seep in. When the reality hit him of the bomb she just dropped, he felt despicable for the way he just treated her. Her strange behavior over the past week, suddenly made sense and he felt like a complete idiot. He knew Bailey was probably scared out of her mind and he needed to fix the mess he made quickly. It was important for him to comfort and reassure her everything would be ok.

“Bay?” He hesitantly called her name asking for permission to enter as he slowly opened the door.

“Come back to berate me more?”

Tyler slowly approached the tub Bailey was huddled in with her arms wrapped around her knees, refusing to look at him. He ran his hands through his hair several times out of frustration, when he noticed she began to tremble as if she was prey about to be pounced on by her predator, as he got closer. His eyes began to swell with tears of sorrow at the realization that the love of his life was now frightened of him. He dropped to his knees groveling and begging for forgiveness. “Oh my God Bay! What have I done? I’m So Sorry! Please don’t be scared of me! I promise I won’t hurt you! I could never! You’ve got to believe me! PLEASE Bay! I love you and I didn’t mean what I said! I wasn’t thinking straight! I know you would never knowingly hurt me or the team. Please forgive me for my stupidity and for yelling at you!! Bay, I love you more than my own life! Please say you forgive me!”
She opened her mouth to say something, anything but all that came out were deep gut wrenching sobs that tore through her chest and convulsed her small body. He nearly lost it completely, when Bailey started to cry again, but he managed to pull himself together knowing he had to be strong for her. He climbed into the tub and wrapped his arms around her and whispered. “Shhh. Bay, it’s going to be ok.”

“I’m so sorry!” She choked out, rocking back and forth. She drew in a deep enough breath to speak again. “I should have been more careful!” Coughing, gasping, and crying, she couldn’t stop even when she felt Tyler’s arm across her shoulder pull her in closer to his side.

“Bay, I think you’re getting ahead of yourself. Maybe you’re just a little late because of all the stress you’ve been under lately. Think about it, we always use protection.”

Bailey repeatedly shook her head no as she hugged her knees tighter as tears continued to run down her numb cheeks. She felt weak and absolutely powerless; all she wanted was to be in Tyler’s arms and cry. Tyler gently moved his hand slowly up and down her arm in an effort to comfort her. She gradually allowed herself to succumb to his warm and soothing touch and managed to gain enough composure to speak. “We didn’t use anything on my birthday on the plane or later that night when we got home.”

“Ok, but that was one night, plus you’re on the pill, so it could still just be stress.”

“No Tyler, you’re wrong; I know I’m pregnant. I’m in that stupid 8% that the pill fails! You know I’ve been exhausted this past week; I just didn’t feel like myself and thought I was just comin down with somethin. Then Em came over to hang out while I was packin and she told me that she and Steven were talkin about startin a family soon. That’s when it hit me that I was late. She went to CVS and picked up a test for me and it came back positive. I know those aren’t always accurate, so I made an appointment with the doctor for this mornin. He confirmed it; I’m due in January.”

“And that’s why you changed your flight? Bay, why didn’t you call and tell me?”

“I knew you’d be upset about me not bein at the game, but I had to know for sure. I’m sorry I didn’t call, but I was so freaked out; I knew I’d break down if I heard your voice! I didn’t want to worry you if there was no need to. I’m so sorry Tyler! This is all my fault! If I’d had more will power and waited, then I wouldn’t be gettin puni”

Tyler cut Bailey off and cradled her in his arms when she began to weep again. “Stop it! You didn’t get pregnant by yourself and although the timing is much sooner than either of us planned, our baby is not a punishment because we had premarital sex. She’s a wonderful, unexpected gift!” He kissed the top of her head.

“She?”

“Well, I don’t know for sure, and I know we joked about not wanting any girls because of the drama they bring, but I think it will be safer if our first is a mini you. I think I’m more prepared to handle a sweet and innocent little girl versus a little boy that might be a hellion like me.” Tyler smiled when his little confession made Bailey giggle.

“You realize that we don’t get to chose if we have a boy or girl right? Not to mention girls can be hellions too.”

“I know, but a girl is what I’m hoping for. Besides, I know our little girl will be an angel because she’s going to take after you.”

“Will you be ok if we have a boy?” She used the back of her hand to wipe her cheeks.

“Of course! I’ll love our baby no matter if it’s a boy or a girl!” He hugged her tighter and kissed her forehead.

“So you’re not mad and really ok with this?”

“Bay, I love you more than anything and now we’re going to have something that’s a part of both of us that stemmed from our love for each other. How could I be mad at that?” He bent down to capture her lips in a kiss. “Now, I’m not going to lie and tell you I’m not scared, because I’m scared shitless! I don’t know the first thing about babies, let alone know how to raise one, but I’m going to try really hard to be a good dad. Knowing you’ll be by my side is comforting, because you’re incredible with kids and will be an amazing mom. Bay, everything is going to be ok, because we’re going to do this together!”

Emotionally moved by Tyler’s words, Bailey’s eyes became misty again. “I love you Tyler and you’re going to be a wonderful dad! I don’t know who’s luckier, our baby or me.” She craned her neck to press her lips to his. “Thank you for not getting angry and leavin me.”

He gently pulled Bailey into his lap. “Bay, you should know by now, I’m never letting you go! You and now this little one are stuck with me.” He kissed his palm before placing it on Bailey’s stomach and bringing his lips softly down to hers as a tender way to express his love. “Bay, now that you’re pregnant, what do you want to do about the wedding? Do you want to postpone until after the baby’s born?”

“Are you kiddin? Absolutely not! We are not bringin our baby into this world out of wedlock!”

“Ok, we go on with it as planned.”

“Oh God! People already thought we pushed up the weddin because I was pregnant; now it’s true. Tyler, we’re havin a shotgun weddin! This is so embarrassin! How are we goin to tell our parents?” Burying her head in her hands out of shame and sorrow, more salty droplets seeped from her eyes.

“Calm down Bay!” He gently rubbed her back in attempt to console her. “First of all it’s not a shotgun wedding, because no one is forcing us to get married. Second, we actually love each other and planned this before you were pregnant. And as far as our families are concerned, we’ll tell them when the time is right. We can even wait until after we get back from our honeymoon if you want. I’m sure they’ll be happy for us. In fact I’m pretty sure my mom and sisters will be over the moon.”

“Well at least we’ll have someone on our side. Don’t think the news, will be accepted quite that well by my family. I’m afraid to think what Daddy and Michael might do to you.” Tyler laughed and she swatted his chest. “I’m serious Tyler, they might try to kill you!”

“I think I’ll take my chances. Besides, how can they really be mad? Everybody knows we love each other and we’re getting married. We were going to start a family eventually anyways. I mean it’s not like I knocked you up after a one night stand.”

“From your mouth to God’s ears! It’s just different in the South, but I really hope you’re right.”

“I am; you’ll see everything is going to be fine.” He kissed her forehead, took her hand and laced his fingers with hers. So do you want to tell everybody before or after the wedding?”

“Well, they say it’s best to wait until after the first trimester, because that’s when I’ll be less likely to have a miscarriage, so I’d like to do that if it’s ok with you. However, I think it’d be ok to tell our families sooner. I was thinkin after you win the Cup, that way if our families react poorly it won’t impact your game. However, I’m not sure I can keep this kind of secret from Momma that long. Oh, I don’t know! What do you think we should do?”

Tyler placed a kiss on her left cheek. “First, I love that you have faith that we are going to win the Cup! I also appreciate that you’re willing to wait until the playoffs are over, but I don’t think I can keep the secret that long either. How about we just keep it between us through the end of this trip and tell our families when we get home.”

“So just you and I will know for now; oh and Em. I think I like that.”

“Good, now that, that’s settled, why don’t we get out of here and go somewhere a little bit more comfortable.”

“I thought you like being in the tub with me?”

“I do when there’s warm water, bubbles, and a naked you!” He began to tickle Bailey, resulting in a fit of giggles.

“If you win tomorrow, maybe that can be arranged.” She teased as she planted a few kisses on his cheeks and lips.

“Oh, the Rangers are done for now! That’s one proposition I can’t turn down.” Tyler happily returned the onslaught of kisses Bailey was giving him when he stood up lifting her with him and stepped out of the tub. He carried her bridal style to the bed and set her down. He noticed the remnants of crackers on the bed when he started pulling the covers over her and flinched as he recalled his behavior from earlier. “Bay, I’m sorry for my behavior earlier. Since your ginger ale kind of exploded when you chucked it at me, do you want me to go get you another one?”

“Maybe later. Right now I just want to cuddle with you, if that’s ok?”

Tyler climbed into the bed beside her and pulled Bailey into his side. “Of course it is. I love you Bay!” He kissed the top of her head. “Try to get some rest.” It didn’t take Bailey long to drift off to sleep, once she was snuggled close into Tyler and he soothingly played with her hair.

Given everything that had transpired, Tyler couldn’t make his mind and body shutdown to sleep. He still felt guilty for yelling at Bailey earlier and although she’d already forgiven him, he was determined to find a special way to make it up to her. Due to the shock and fear that had now turned into excitement over Bailey’s pregnancy, he didn’t think he could keep the secret from his friends. He also knew Bailey was still feeling overwhelmed, so a quiet evening in would be the best thing for both of them. He sent Bergy and Marchy a quick text to cancel their dinner plans with them for later that evening. Not wanting to break his promise to Bailey to wait until after they got home to share the news, he resisted the urge to call his mom and set his phone back down on the bedside table.

He glanced back at Bailey soundly sleeping and beamed from ear to ear as it really began to hit him that he’s going to be a dad. When she didn’t budge an inch after he kissed her cheek, he gently pulled the covers off her and moved down to her stomach. He lifted her shirt slightly, dragged his fingers softly along her belly and began to talk to it.

“Hey in there, this is your dad. I’m sorry if I scared you earlier when I yelled at your mom! I was really being stupid and selfish. I should never have spoken to her that way and I’m truly sorry I did. I never want to hurt her or you! I want you to know, I love your mom more than anything and even though we haven’t met, I’m pretty sure I already love you just as much! I promise I will always protect and take care of you and your mom. You know, we are both super lucky because your mom loves both of us. Wait until you meet her; she’s absolutely beautiful! She’s the most loving and generous person I’ve ever met. There’s no such thing as a perfect person, but I’m pretty sure your mom is as close as someone can get to perfection. She’s going to be an incredible mom to you! She’s a little scared right now, but don’t you worry because I’m going to make sure she feels loved and supported so she can relax and really enjoy having you cook in her tummy until it’s time for you to make an appearance. If it’s possible, do you think you can do your best not to make Mommy too sick while you’re still in there. If you can’t help it, that’s ok too. I just want you both to be safe, healthy, and feel loved. You should know, I'm not as smart as your mom and I'm going to make lots of mistakes, but just be patient with me and I'll eventually figure it out. I promise I'm going to try my hardest to be a good dad to you!"

“Tyler?” Bailey groaned as she started to awaken slightly and shift her body feeling the bed beside her in search for him.

“I’m right here, Bay.” He moved up the bed and pecked her lips resulting in a small smile from her.

“I'm cold; will you come cuddle with me please?”

Tyler chuckled and softly pressed his lips to her belly before pulling her shirt back down and the covers back up over the both of them. “I need to go help Mommy get warm, but I promise I’ll talk to you soon. Get some rest little one. I love you.” Once he was back by her side, Bailey rolled back onto her side so she was snuggled nicely into his chest. “Let’s hope the baby gets my Canadian thick skin.” He joked as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head.

“Ok.” Bailey quickly drifted back to sleep nestled in the warmth of Tyler’s strong and loving arms.

Notes

So, what do y'all think of the bomb Bailey dropped on Tyler and his reaction?