The One Night That Changed My Life Forever

"Are you serious? I can't believe I was about to miss it! Of course I'm coming! Can I bring someone? Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!" I practically screamed into the phone in French.
"Who was that?" Pat asked as I got off the phone. He obviously noticed me smiling.
"Just a certain french family I love to death! "
"Hmmm. What's the occasion?"
"Umm well… You see, they kind of want me to fly out and see them. It was a little bit short notice but my host brother is getting married, and apparently my name was skipped over or my invitation didn't arrive. They got worried when they didn't have my response up until now, so they decided they better call me. So they were just making sure I was coming and all. I understand though why they would assume I was coming."
"You and him were close?"
"Yup. Like brother and sister. Loved him to death! I can't believe he's finally doing it. Took him long enough!"
"Really? How long have they been dating?"
"Since they were 15, sooooo ten years!"
"I see what you mean. When would you be leaving?"
"Umm, tomorrow." I said quietly.
"Wow! Really? That soon huh?"
"Yah. It's at the end of this week. Seeing as its already Sunday, that would give me 4 days before the wedding to get settled, and find a dress and all."
"That's cool I guess. A week without you. There goes my minimal social life." He said winking.
"Haha sure. But I was thinking maybe…."
"Hmmm…"
"You could come with me? " I managed to get out.
"You really want me there? I mean it's your time with your family. Plus they will be scrambling for seats!"
"Haha, you worry too much. Plus I just asked if I could bring someone, so you better not leave me empty-handed!"
"If you are sure, I guess."
"Honestly Pat, you have nothing to worry about. They are seriously the most laid back amazing people. They love me as though I was their child. You will fit right in!"
"Um, except for the French part."
"Haha. I guess, but you'd be surprised. My bro speaks understandable English, and my sis is trilingual. The parents have picked some English up along the way so you will be fine! Plus you need a break from all this craziness" I said laughing.
"You sure I'm not intruding?"
"Pat would I have asked you if you were going to be? No. I want you there, and honestly it will make everyone happy to see how happy you make me." I said looking up to him smiling.
"Alright. You've convinced me."
"Good. Now let me go book those tickets."
"Here." he said handing me his card.
"Nope! I invited you so I'm buying. Though you might have to suffer without the whole first class thing."
"Please??" He whined.
"Nuhhuhh." I said shaking my head.
"Just this once?"
"Nope. You know how I feel about using your money!"
"But I want to!"
"You aren't winning this one Kane." I said heading to my room to grab my computer.
"You never told me where they live!" He yelled as I made my way back out computer in hand.
"Lyon."
"You made that too easy!" He said smirking.
"You didn't!" I gasped.
"Oh but I did!" He said winking.
"Seriously? But I was going to!" I exclaimed.
"Nah. I'd never let a pretty girl like you pay for my flight let alone yours!"
"Fine! But I'm paying for everything once we get there!"
"We staying at a hotel?"
"Nope. So you better behave!" I said winking.
"Where we staying then?"
"Ohh Pat, we are staying with the fam! There's no way they would make their "daughter" pay for a hotel room. Silly" I said laughing.
"Frig. You are having me meet the family already? You sure that's a good idea?" He asked winking.
"Well you've already won over mine, so yes I'd say it's time. You better make a good impression or I'm hearing about it for the rest of the trip, and then some."
"Way to calm my nerves Rach!"
"Seriously. Patty Kane nervous? Come on, I have to go pack and grab a couple gifts to bring over."
"Alright what were you thinking for gifts? I'm not good at this sorry!"
"Haha that's ok. I'm getting them kind of joke like gifts, that they will appreciate. I know and love both of them, so I know exactly what to get." I said winking.
"What would that be?"
"First off we are going to a baby store."
"Ummm. "
"You will be fine."
"Why are we going there? They pregnant?"
"I honestly have no clue. But something had to get my host brother to man up and just marry the dang girl."
"I see. This is going to be interesting." He said sounding worried.
"Oh, don't you worry about that." I said shaking my head.
"Fine. But I'm wearing my hat and glasses."
"Haha ok. Come on let's go. Sorry for dragging you into this."
"It's fine. Practice for when I have my own kids." He said smiling.
"Yup! But I'm not letting you get anything stupid."
"I figured. But can I get it, if it even exists something sportish?"
"Boy's and their sports." I said shaking my head as we drove off. "But yes. I was going to anyways. I'm pretty sportive if you haven't noticed."
"Believe me half the world knows." Pat said laughing. "Ok, will this do?" He said pulling into Babies-R-Us.
"For sure. I'm impressed you even know this place exists." I said laughing.
"Ye of little faith."
"Alright, you ready?" I asked. "Make sure to stick with me. Don't want you getting lost now."
"Yup. Let's do this. The rest of the gifts better not involve kids though." He said jokingly discarding the glasses but keeping his hat.
"Not so nervous anymore are you?"
"Nah. Let people think what they think. Plus we are going to be out of the country for a week."
"Awe thanks Patty! It means so much that you don't feel like you have to hide!"
"Haha. I didn't say this wasn't going to be awkward. Come on" he said laughing and throwing his arm over my shoulder.
"Alright. Since I don't even know if this kid exists, we have to find something that will fit both a boy or a girl. Plus I was thinking a cute little Blackhawks jumper?"
"Sounds good." He said arm never leaving my shoulder as we made our way to the toys section.
"What about this?" Pat said holding up a demented looking toy. I burst out laughing.
"No way!" I exclaimed. "I said something small, and cool. Not demented!"
"Fine how about a bear?"
"Sounds good. I'll just grab another small something, and then all I need is that Hawks jumper." We grabbed the bear, and I found a cute unisex jumper to go with it.
"Haha isn't it great the glares we are getting?" I asked Pat as we made our way into a line.
"It's almost as if they think your pregnant" he whispered in my ear.
"I know right!" I said laughing and handing the stuff over to the person on cash.
"Did you find everything alright today Miss? And ohhh?" she turned red and started to ring our things through.
"Perfect thanks." I replied nicely. "You think that works for either boy or girl?"
"Yes. It is very nice. Your baby will look beautiful."
"Oh. No this is just for my nephew or niece." I said laughing. " I just dragged that one along." I said pointing and smiling at an embarrassed Pat.
"Ohh. Well cool. Sorry about the misunderstanding. Have a great day."
"No problem. Have a great day yourself." I winked and led Pat outside.
"Definitely just said what everyone else was afraid to in there huh?" Pat asked.
"Yup. Sorry about that. Don't worry the next things aren't baby related" I said giving him a kiss and getting in the car. We stopped at a grocery store to get my usual supply of Maple Syrup and baking powder to add to their gift. Then we headed to the Hawks store and grabbed one of the cutest little jumpers and headed back home. Then it was time for me to pack, and sleep. Pat was picking me up early in the morning, for the trip to the airport. So I called it an early night, letting El know I'd be MIA for another week, before heading to bed.
I was ready when Pat knocked the next morning. I had my suitcase in hand and my coat and boots already on.
"Wow! Someone's excited." He winked giving me a quick kiss and grabbing my suitcase.
"Super excited! I've been waiting for this moment for years!" He laughed and we made our way to the airport, boarded the plane, and 9 hours later were in the Lyon airport.
"Ready?" I asked Pat as we grabbed our bags and made our way towards the exit gate.
"Yup." He said as we made our way side by side out of the baggage claim.
"This way. My bro is waiting just outside" I said leading Pat towards the parking lot.
"Baptiste!" I shouted as I saw a familiar figure from the corner of my eye.
"Rach! How are you?" He asked in French.
"Good. Good. Much better now that I'm here! I can't believe you are finally doing it! Took you long enough" I replied back, playfully punching his shoulder and giving him a huge hug.
"Who's this?" He asked giving me a wink, still not letting up on the French.
"Right! Baptiste--Pat, Pat--Baptiste. "
"He doesn't speak any french does he?"
"Nope. None."
"He looks super confused right now. Guess I should probably switch to English."
"Haha thanks. No being mean he's nervous as is."
"So Pat, this is my french bro Baptiste. You two are the same age, and he loves sports so you guys should have tons to talk about." I said switching the conversation back into English much to Pat's liking.
"Haha. Ok. Nice to meet you man." He said nodding at Baptiste as he drove out of the airport parking lot. "Sorry to crash your wedding."
"If your a friend of Rach, you are always welcome." Baptiste said smiling.
"There's the accent I missed." I said laughing.
"Shush. You have one too."
"Oh. I know" I said winking. "How's Marie?"
"Great. Finally getting married!"
"Yes. That is the reason we are here." I said winking.
"And to see us right? Obviously the best people in the world."
"Of course. It's been way too long. I've missed crazy Celia" he pouted. "And you of course!" I turned back to Pat.
"Celia is his sister, and well mine too. We had some crazy times together over the two years I was here. Marie is his fiancee soon to be wife."
"Alright. I think I've got it." He said smiling, though obviously out of his element.
"Don't worry. I'll take care of you" I said whispering in his ear, and giving him a quick kiss. We pulled into the driveway of the average french style house. The place I had spent two years of my life. "I hope you don't mind cozy." I said to Pat as we grabbed our bags, and buzzed ourselves through the locked gate.
"Haha. Nope. I'll love it as long as I'm with you. Though I didn't know how much family you had." He said winking. "Anymore hidden family I should know about?"
"Not that I know of, but I'll get back to you on that one." I said smiling and making my way into the house through the open door followed closely by Pat.
"Maman!!? The little brat's here!" Baptiste yelled into the house.
"What did he say?" Pat asked as I punched Baptiste in the shoulder.
"He just called me a little brat. Obviously lying." I said winking at my host bro and Pat, as the footsteps neared.
"Rach! How are you?" My host mom and dad ran up to me and gave me a huge hug.
"Great. Really happy. But I missed you guys." I responded back in French.
"And who is this?" Eleanor my host mom asked nodding over to Pat speaking in English.
"Pat this is my host mom. Eleanor meet Pat my boyfriend."
"Nice to meet you ma'am" Pat said outstretching his hand politely.
"Phillipe." By host dad said embracing Pat in a man hug.
"Celia! Where you at?" I yelled upstairs.
"Coming!" She responded in French.
"RACH!"
"CELIA"
We both screamed and ran up to on another and partook in a huge hug.
"Damn! That boy is fine. Where you been hiding him?" She asked in French, earning a laugh from everybody except Pat.
"I'll tell you more over lunch."
"Don't worry were are just talking about you." Baptiste said clapping Pat's shoulder as he turned to me eyes pleading for an explanation.
"Ok. We are going to go get settled in, and probably sleep a bit of the time change off. I'm assuming we have the guest room?"
"Yup.Let me help you guys." Celia said in perfect english.
"You just want to get information on Pat here." Baptiste said in French shaking his head at his sister.
"I would never, ohh wait never mind."
"Please let me escort you to your room." She said in English adding a slight curtsy.
"Let's go goofball. I know where the room is." I said laughing and grabbing Pat's hand and leading him up the stairs. The guest room was nothing spectacular but it would do the trick, and it held many memories for me.
"So you spent two years in this room?" Pat asked.
"Yup. Feels like home. Now I'm going to sleep a little, you joining?"
"Absolutely. I'm exhausted." he said smiling, and flinging himself in bed. I told Celia we would hang once I woke up, and that tomorrow we were going dress shopping. She had no objections, though she really did want to know how Pat and I became a couple. I headed back into the room, Pat looked as though he was almost asleep already. I snuggled up into him and drifted of to sleep.
"Wake up sleepyheads" Celia called from the doorway.
"I'm up." I said groggily. "Time to go shopping?" I said in very sloppy but understandable French
"You know it girlfriend. The boys will be fine alone. Lets get out of here."
"Alright. Give me a few minutes. I'm going to take a quick shower, get changed and do my makeup. Want to make me a coffee?"
"Sure. Mom got croissants too, your favourite ones!"
"Sweet. I'll be right down."
"Babe. I'm heading to town with Celia" I said kissing pat lightly on the head, a good twenty minutes later as I made my way downstairs.
"K. Have fun."
"Yup. You too."
"Ready to head?" Celia asked in French.
"Yup. We going by car or Public transportation?"
"Not by car. "
"Haha probably smart." I said grabbing my croissant and downing my espresso shot.
"So who's the guy?" She got right to it.
"His name is Pat."
"Hmm. Where's he from?"
"Buffalo, but lives in Chicago."
"What ever happened to Mike?"
"He cheated on me" I said frowning.
"What a dick!"
"Haha, but it lead me to Pat." I said smiling.
"Damn girl, you in love" she said winking.
"Yes, I suppose I am." I said smiling. "No making any moves on him either!"
"Fine. But did you have to bring such a hot boyfriend?"
"Yup just to make you sweat of course." I said winking.
"I hate you! Does he have any hot friends?"
"I'd say so. I said laughing and showing her pictures of some of the other guys."
"Can I move in with you?"
"Probably not. Finish your schooling and we will see." I said winking. "Lets go in here." I said pointing at a cute dress shop.
"So do you plan on staying in the dress all day, or are you going for the rip it off and burn it effect?"
"Celia!"
"Well, which one? "
"It's not my day, so simple yet elegant."
"Try this on one." She said tossing me a medium length dress. "It even works well with the wedding colours."
"Damn. You know me so well. It's beautiful" I murmured looking at myself in the mirror.
"You have to buy it!" She exclaimed
"There's no way I can afford it." I said opening my wallet.
"Again Pat really?" I sighed and shook my head.
"What did he do?"
" I took out the card and showed it to her, reading the card that said "you will be the prettiest one at the wedding. Aside from the bride of course ;)"
"Now you definitely need to buy that dress. Plus you can thank him by letting him take it off you." She said winking.
"Fine. What's with you and your dirty mind lately?"
"Haha you missed it." She said smiling, knowing it was true. I, well Pat paid for the dress, and we made our way back onto the city streets.
"Soooooo. Pat gives you his card and lets you go crazy?"
"He knows I wouldn't go crazy. But yes,though last time was in Russia and he just put bills in mine and his sister's purses."
"Generous guy."
"Yup. Though I don't like taking his money" I pouted. "Come on! Lets grab some coffee and head home! All I need are shoes."
"I got those covered, as long as your feet haven't changed sizes."
"Perfect thanks. One sec,"
"Yes Mom?" I said into my phone.
"Where are you?"
"Oh ya sorry. Pat and I are in France. Baptiste is finally tying the knot. "
"Finally" She muttered.
"So what's up?" I asked.
"You'd tell me if something big was going on in your life right?"
"Yes, why what's this about? I'm kinda in the middle of shopping with Celia."
"Just a rumour going around."
"Which is? Sorry I'm out of the country and definitely out of the loop." I said laughing.
"You are pregnant."
"Oh that one, figured that would come up. That just come out today?"
"Yah just awhile ago."
"You have nothing to worry about, just doing some shopping for a friend. Of course I'd tell you if I was pregnant!" I laughed as Celia almost spit out her coffee.
"Now that that's all cleared up I have to get back to preparing for this wedding."
"Alright. Say hi to everyone and Pat!"
"Will do. Love ya mom." I hung up the phone.
"Sorry about that" I said to Celia.
"What's up with you being pregnant?"
"Just a rumor."
"Haha ok." She said as we climbed in the car and made the quick trip home from the tramway station.
"Pat I'm back!" I yelled as made my way in the house.
"Out back!" He replied.
"Mhmm that smells good" I said smiling at the guys all hovered around the barbecue. "Pat would you care to join me in the living room?"
"As long as im not in trouble!" he said winking.
"You are good!" I said wrapping my arm around him and steering him inside.
"What's up?"
"Take a look." I said showing him my phone.
Erica~~Seriously? He got you preggers?
Jessica~ Sweet. Imma be an aunt!
Jack~~Lookin' good momma bear ;)
Mom~~ EXPLAIN!
Jon~~ Really? You didn't tell me? I'm hurt!
Sharpie~~ Congrats!
Dylan~~I'm going to kill him!
Quick~~ Guess that kills my chances with you ;) Congrats.
El~~ Is it true?
"And that's not even the end of it!" I said laughing. "You should probably call your parents and do some damage control, I'm going to text the guys back" I said.
"Alright. I'll be right back. This should be a fun conversation" he said winking.
Me~~ Tell you what Jon? I'm in France.
Jon~~ Um. You know what?
Me~~ Nope what's up? You mad I took Pat with me to the land of the french and not you?
Jon~~ You aren't pregnant then?
Me~~ No. Where did you here that?
Jon~~ Well it's all over the news here, and you two aren't even in Chicago. Priceless. They've been looking for you two to no avail.
Me~~ Had to get some stuff for my possible new niece or nephew ;) Gotta love wedding gifts.
Jon~~ How'd you get Kaner in the store?
Me~~ I didn't do anything. At first he was reluctant, then he actually wanted to come.
Jon~~ Interesting. I'm going to let you go. You gave me quite a scare ;)
Me~~ I try ;)
Me~~ Sharpie what's the congratulations for? For my french brother's wedding in a few days?
Sharpie~~ What?
Me~~ Didn't Kaner tell you we were in France for my host brother's wedding?
Sharpie~~ No. You guys are in France?
Me~~ Yup. So what is the congrats for? I'm confused.
Sharpie~~ Being pregnant!
Me~~ I know my sister in law's babe is going to be sooooooo cute ;)
Sharpie~~ Should of known.
Me~~ You can't believe all the media! Tisk tisk!
Sharpie~~ Well pass on my congrats then. My bad.
Me~~ Don't worry about it. My parents already called, and all Pat's sisters have texted me.
Sharpie~~ Good I wasn't the only one.
Me~~ Nope my brother's have gone into kill Kaner mode. I have to continue damage control. I'll see you guys when we get back.
Me~~ Kill whom? It better be for a good reason. I don't want my brother rotting in jail for the rest of his life over something stupid!
Dylan~~ Your boyfriend.
Me~~You better not. He's the best thing to happen to me. Plus what has he ever done to you? Plus how are you going to get us in France?
Dylan~~ You are in France?
Me~~Ya my brother not threatening to kill my boyfriend is getting married. So we grabbed some quick gifts, packed up and headed out here for a week or so.
Dylan~~ Gifts as in baby gifts?
Me~~ Yup. I assumed Marie must be preggers due to the fact Baptiste finally made his move and proposed. :)
Dylan~~ So I don't have to kill your boyfriend?
Me~~ Nope :) Ttyl Dyl.
Me~~Quick man, what chance did you ever have of getting with me?
Quick~~ Eh! A man can hope. Now I can't even try :(
Me~~ Why? You can try but you wont get very far lol ;)
Quick~~ Nah. You are totally Pat's now!
Me~~ I don't belong to anyone Quick. :P Though I do appreciate some Kane loving.
Quick~~ What are you two going to do?
Me~~ Um. Sleep and get ready for my host brothers wedding?
Quick~~ Where are you?
Me~~ France. Why does everyone want to know? You planning on making a surprise visit and declaring your love for me?
Quick~~ Maybe…too bad your going to be having mini Kaner's though.
Me~~ Sure. Maybe in a few years. That means you have a while to sweep me off my feet lol ;)
Quick~~ Let me guess. You bought some wedding presents before flying out.
Me~~ Yupp. We got the most ADORABLE Blackhawks jumper. My kids will totally be wearing that! IN A FEW YEARS!
Quick~~ You knew what I was talking about all along didn't you?
Me~~ Yup. You called me preggers first though! As if I don't know how to use protection Quick!!
Quick~~ Alright. You two lovebirds have fun :)
Me~~ Will do. Ttyl Quick.
Me~~Seriously El? You would have been the first one I told!
El~~I had to ask. I figured it wasn't true.
Me~~ I'm assuming my almost sister in law is preggers so we got her a few things ;)
El~~ Sorry to bother you! Have fun :)
Me~~ No prob. You weren't the only one. Ttyl.
"Here Mom wants to talk to you. Just to say hi!" Pat said handing me the phone.
"Hey! Donna. Sorry about the scare! Believe me you guys would be the first to know!"
"Haha. You did give me quite a scare. But it's alright I wouldn't mind a few grandchildren."
"In a few years." I said laughing.
"I guess I can wait that long! So anyways just wanted to say hi and see how you were doing."
"Well, Im doing great. Really happy."
"That's good. Pat treating you well?"
"Yup. Being a perfect gentleman. You have nothing to worry about!" I said winking at Pat.
"Alright then. I'm going to let you guys go.I expect a visit to Buffalo soon!"
"On our list. See ya Donna!"
I hung up the phone. "Damage control complete." I said smiling and hugging Pat. "Now lets go and enjoy this vacation!"
"Yah. The guys are having some sort of party. I think its sort of like a bachelor party."
"You should totally go!"
"Yah?"
"Yes, I can have fun with my girls." I said winking.
"Alright. I'm going to have a shower and get ready. See ya in a bit babe."
"You know where everything is?"
"I should be able to figure it out. I'll call ya if I need help."
"K.I'll be chilling with Celia if you need me." I said pecking his lips and heading upstairs.
"Girl let me see the shoes!" I said switching back into French.
"Oh! Yah. They are these ones."
"I love those ones! Can't believe you still have them!"
"Bring back memories huh?"
"Tons!"
"So where's Marie at? I haven't seen the lucky girl yet!"
"She should be coming later tonight when the boys go off and have their fun."
"Yay! I miss that girl."
"Hey Rach!" There was a knock on the door and Pat stood there in a towel.
"Yes. What's up other than the fact you are giving my sister a heart attack." I said looking over to Celia's face instantly changing red, and looking down.
"Haha sorry about that. How do you work the shower?"
"Haha I'll show you. It took me a few times to figure the two knobs out too."
"Thanks."
"So this one turns on the water, I always turn it on to the shower one and not the jets. Then this other one controls the heat." I said pointing out the two dials.
"You joining me?" He asked showering me in kisses.
"Nope. Not my house, and not the right time." I said giving him one last kiss and making my way out of the bathroom and back into Celia's room.
"So how much longer are you living here?" I asked Celia as I made my way back in.
"Just till school finishes up. So less than a year. I hate being a year younger than you!" She pouted.
"Haha. So one more year till you are moving in with me?" I said winking.
"I wish! We'll see. If I get to stare at that everyday!"
"Very funny. I'm retracting my offer."
"Seriously have you seen those abs?"
"Um yes. I'm dating them." I said laughing, getting a smile out of Celia.
"Soooooo Lucky!"
"I know! So what's the plan for tonight?"
"Movie, sweats, and snacks?"
"Sounds perfect! I'm just going to go help Pat get ready, and change into some comfy clothes."
"Alright. See ya in a few." She said winking and turning her attention back to the computer.
"Looking good Babe!" I said as I made my way into the room, where Pat was just finishing up.
"Thanks! What are the ladies up to tonight?"
"Nothing much. A laid back movie night!"
"That should be fun. Though I wish you could come out with the guys." He said smiling.
"Nope. You will be fine. They all love you. Just don't get into trouble!"
"I won't! Love the sweater again by the way." He said as I chucked his sweater on and changed into my Lulu leggings.
"I knew you would." I said smiling and leaning into his kiss.
"I think I'd rather stay here!" He exclaimed kissing me again.
"Patrick Timothy Kane! Off me now and go have fun with the guys!" I said jokingly obviously loud enough to have earned a laugh from Celia next door.
"Fine. But you are killing me!"
"Go have fun. I'll be here when you get back." I said smiling as I shooed him out the door and watched him make his way out with the guys. I went and started making a coffee, got to love amazing coffee machines I thought to myself. I smiled and ran to the door when I heard the buzzer go off. I saw Marie waiting to be buzzed in. I flung the door open and buzzed her in. "Marie!!!!"
"RACH!"
"How are you?"
"Good! Great to see you haven't lost your French!"
"Nope. My brother finally got off his ass and proposed huh?"
"Haha yah. Almost 11 years later." She said smiling.
"Unbelievable." I said shaking my head." But friday eh? You ready?"
"Yup. You have to see my dress and everything!"
"For sure! I just got mine today! Can't believe you are sort of going to be my sister!"
"Crazy huh? Totally sisters even if not by blood!"
"I have been waiting for this day, ever since I saw the two of you together!"
"Oh I know. You've been dropping subtle hints forever!"
"You caught those huh?"
"Yup! Now what's this I hear about a serious boyfriend?" She asked raising her eyebrow.
"His name is Pat. And he's great just ask Celia" I said pointing as she made her way down the stairs.
"Ask me what?"
"About her boyfriend." Marie said.
"Haha I can't tell ya too much. Don't want you jumping ship at your own wedding."
"Hmm?"
"You will see what I mean when you see him. I mean damn! Rach would land that, and I'm stuck being single." She said pouting.
"You will find someone! Plus I don't think I'm leaving Baptiste anytime soon" She said smiling. "I love him too much."
"That's good!" I said smiling.
"So how's Chicago?" Marie asked.
"It's great. I have a ton of friends there. I have to go back up to Canada in a few weeks though."
"What's up in Canada?"
"Hockey tryouts!" I said smiling.
"For?"
"Team Canada!"
"Wow congrats girl!" Marie exclaimed and Celia agreed.
"I miss hockey. It's been to long since I've been back to the States!"
"Reminiscing back to your exchange days?" I said laughing.
"Yes! But the Red-Wings weren't a good team" She said pouting.
"Nope. They still aren't" I said laughing. "At least you weren't in Toronto." I winked.
"I'll leave the Canadians to you!" She said smiling. "Ready to watch the movie?"
"Sure!" Marie and I exclaimed.
"Cute sweater." Marie said as we made our way to sit down.
"Haha thanks."
"You two already swapping out clothing?" Celia said laughing.
"Pat and I? Nah I just steal his clothes."
"So he a Hawks fan? I never paid any attention to them"
"I can tell. And yup huge fan. They just won the cup three times in five years." I said smirking.
"Sweet! I'll have to look them up."
"Too bad I have no idea what you two are talking about" Marie said.
"Haha sorry about that. Let's watch the movie."
We watched the movie, and Marie headed home. Celia and I went back to our rooms and just chilled respectively waiting for the guys to come back.
"No Way!" I heard Celia exclaim from her room.
"What's up?" I yelled back.
"Nothing. Just saw something interesting."
"Ok. Cool." I said and went back to surfing the internet. An hour or so later the guys made their way back into the house.
"Rach. Why is Celia looking at me as though she just saw a ghost?" Pat asked making his way back into the room.
"I don't know."
"It's creepy."
"Haha that's Celia for ya. I'll go see what's up" I said smiling.
"Girl! You are creeping Pat out! What's up?" I asked in French
"Nothing. He just looks awfully familiar."
"Haha, sure. Did you do some research by chance?"
"Maybe a little. Why didn't you tell me" she hissed and smiled.
"Haha, we needed a break from all the action."
"No wonder he looks like a friggin god."
"Please don't get all weird around him! We honestly missed being treated like normal people."
"Fine. But I want a picture and autograph before you guys leave!"
"I'm sure that's do-able. Now I'm going to bed, see ya tomorrow sis."
"Yah go sleep with your superstar." She said winking and shaking her head before snuggling into bed and shutting off her light.
"So what was that about?" Pat asked as I made my way underneath the covers.
"Haha she did some digging and found out who you are. She was a pretty big hockey fan, back when she did her exchange to the States."
"Should of guessed. So far she's the only one though, pretty impressive."
"I still gotta go show you off around the city. Someone will recognize ya" I said winking. "You did play over here even if it was just for half a season."
"True. Let's hope not too many."
"Yah. They better not ruin my day." I said laughing.
"You've got it all planned out don't you?"
"Nah. I got some stuff we defiantly have to check out but it's not super planned."
"Sounds great."
"Night." I said and turned back to my side of the bed and fell asleep.
"Hey babe. What's for breakfast?" Pat said hugging me in the kitchen.
"We are going out to the local café with the fam. Then we can head into town. Sound good?"
"Yupp. Perfect."
"You might scare them with how much you eat for breakfast however." I said winking.
"Hmmm. Why's that?"
"First of all you are on a hockey player meal plan" I said laughing. "Second here breakfast consists of a coffee and maybe half a croissant, and a piece of fruit." I explained.
"How did you live off just that?"
"Haha I adapted. Lunch is a big meal instead of just a snack like back home."
"Man! Now I wish I wasn't starving" he said laughing.
"Haha don't worry! I'm pretty hungry too so I'll be eating more than usual" I winked.
"You kids ready to go?" Eleanor asked in French.
"I am." I responded in French before turning to Pat to see if he was ready to go, which he was.
"Perfect! Celia! Baptiste! We are leaving!"
"Coming!"They both yelled from downstairs as if they were still kids.
"Just like old times!" Celia said coming up beside Pat and I.
"Yup the three musketeers are reunited!" I responded in English.
"Should I be worried?" Pat asked smirking.
"Nah. We aren't those crazy kids anymore. Baptiste is getting married. Celia's tamed down a little bit. I'd say she would have given you a run for your money though. And I, I have you." I said squeezing his shoulder and smiling up at him.
"You guys had fun huh?"
"Yup, as fun as you could as 22, 20 and 19 year olds at least the second year! First year was still fun at 17!"
"Wow. I wish I could have seen that."
"No you don't. It was fun but also stupid. I'd rather be with you like this any day!"
"You know what? I agree."
"You better!" I said winking as we got out of the car and went into the cozy restaurant.
We were seated at our table, receiving complements about how beautiful our "family looked", and how my host parents had beautiful children. I had to laugh at the fact, that there was a Canadian and American that had just been mistaken as French.
"Haha just like last time!" Celia said laughing.
"Last time?" Pat asked intrigued.
"I just used to be confused as their daughter a lot. People would always say, what a beautiful daughter you have, and you look so similar and things like that, I even got the you have your mothers eyes, and face card pulled a few times. I however don't see the resemblance." I said laughing.
"Well from what I can see after being here a day, is that you guys just have the family vibe. You guys all seem to click, and work well together! I would have thought the same thing if I was the waiter."
"That being said. Welcome to the family bro" Celia said winking at Pat.
"Awe thanks sis" He said ruffling her hair. "Atleast now I get a brother!" He said smiling.
"You can have mine!" I said jokingly.
"You can have my sisters. Nahh…I'll keep them." He said laughing.
"On second thought I'll keep my brothers too, after all they are on call to kill you." I smirked. "Well atleast I know Dyl is."
"I'm scared."
"You should be!" Baptiste chimed in.
We laughed it off and dug into our food as soon as we got it. Pat and I were definitely the pigs of the table. I had gotten a bit extra knowing in no way would Pat be full, after finishing the large yet small amount off food he got. I quietly switched plates with him, taking his empty one. Breakfast was nice, before I could object my host fam was paying the bill, and shooing Pat and I off towards the city.
"Still hungry?" I asked as we made it off the subway and into the downtown section of the city.
"Nahh. I'll survive." He said smiling. "Where to?"
"Up there!" I said pointing up to the cathedral looming over the city.
"Sweet! How do you get up?"
"Walk." I said winking, not saying anything about the subway that went up there as well.
"Alright. It better not rain though."
"Haha ok ya baby." I said shaking my head, bringing him to the walking path.
"Wow! This is beautiful." he said looking down on the city.
"Yup! One of my favourite places. If not my favourite."
"I can see why! Everything else just disappears. It's just you."
"Hmm. Yes it's peaceful. Lets go inside the church!" I said pulling him in to witness the breathtaking work of art.
"Shi--Shoot! That's crazy." It took everything to keep from laughing.
"Now. I think I know something you will love doing!" I said smiling. "Not for too long though, we still have tons of city to see!"
"What is it?" He said clearly interested.
I pointed too a little clearing beside the Cathedral.
"Zip lining? Really?"
"Yup. Only if you want to!"
"I want to! I haven't done this in ages!"
"Cool. This is the first place we came to when I was 17.
"Oh my goodness! That was so much fun!" Pat exclaimed an hour later as we re-emerged out by the church.
"Alright! Come on!" I said pulling him towards the Subway entrance.
"This isn't the way down!" Pat said confused.
"Oh, yah. I might have forgotten to mention that there is a subway" I said shrugging. We made it back to the old village, where I showed him the touristic things and the places you could have found me when I was here. We walked around the city for a few more hours. I showed him the Roman architecture that was still present, and my school I had gone to. Then we called it a day and headed back to the house.
"I can't believe Wednesday is almost over. My big bro is getting married in two days!"
"Yah just over three more days and we will be on our way home." He said almost as if he didn't want to leave.
"Maybe Celia will get married, and give me another excuse to fly out" I said laughing.
"I don't see that happening!" Pat said sharing in my amusement.
"So anyways. Baptiste invited you and I to go to this party tonight, with our friends. You interested?" I said making my way upstairs.
"Sure! Why not."
"Great. We are leaving in a couple hours, so I'm going to get cleaned up and then get ready."
"Mhmmm but we have a few hours!" He whined and kissed me.
"Fine, you can come with me. But be quiet!" I said as I went into the bathroom and got ready for my shower. I blasted my tunes like I did everyday and hopped underneath the hot water.
"Going a little overboard with the radio there?" Pat asked quietly entering the room and locking the door.
"Nahh. Their used to it. It's something both Baptiste and I do. Plus it isn't as loud as when he does it."
"I see." He said stepping into the shower.
"Mhmm. I missed this" I said kissing Pat.
"Not the only one." He said deepening the kiss.
"We have to do this quick. Everyone is going to want the shower and bathroom."
"Alright" he said.
"Our "shower" lasted a good twenty minutes before I told him we actually had to get ready. I danced along to the song while drying off, getting a laugh out of Pat. We chucked our clothes on, and he headed back to the room while I started drying my hair. Thirty minutes later Celia came up, and started doing her hair and makeup as well.
"Damn, girl. You got tanned!" Celia remarked.
"Yup, I was in LA a few weeks ago."
"Lucky! We've had no sun."
"You will." I said shaking my head. "So who you trying to impress?" I asked raising an eyebrow.
"No one!" she said as a slight blush covered her cheeks.
"I'm good at noticing things. I will find out." I said laughing. "You look great by the way!"
"You look smokin'! Pat's a lucky man."
"Haha, you look better. The guy you are trying to impress is an idiot if he doesn't notice this" I said waving my hands around her body. "Though Baptiste is going to be having a little fit." I said laughing.
"Well, I am 22, almost 23 so I'm good." She said smugly.
"Haha lets go change! " I said unplugging the curling rod.
"What you wearing?" Celia asked.
"Hmm.. I was thinking leather skirt, heals and a top. You?"
"Probably stick with a dress. I'll let you help once you are ready!" She said as I went into my room. I grabbed my suitcase, found the skirt and top. I headed over to Celia's room to change, and to steal a pair of her heels that would go perfectly with my outfit. Half an hour later we joined the boys downstairs.
"Ready to go boys?" I asked them, as they were too focused on the TV to notice us.
"Yup…Oh God. Are you trying to kill me Rach?" Pat said looking me over.
"Maybe." I giggled. "Here I can pull it down a bit further." I said adding another inch to the skirt.
"Not helping." he said smiling and wrapping his arm around my shoulders. "Im going to have the hottest girl at the party" he said in a sing song voice.
"Nope, sorry second hottest." I said laughing. "Celia's trying to impress someone" I said whispering in his ear.
"She should definitely get his attention." He whispered back. "Though Im surprised Baptiste hasn't said anything yet."
"Haha no he's used to our shenanigans though if you watch closely you will see the subtle glares." I whispered laughing. We all climbed into the car and headed of to the party.
"So where's the party at? " I asked Baptiste in French, seeing as I recognized the direction we were going.
"I know! I should have told you, but I wanted you to come" he pouted.
"It's fine. You should of warned me! I would not have gone all out!" I said laughing.
"Sorry about that! Just had to find something out from Baptiste." I said laughing.
"No problem. Is this the place?" Pat asked as we pulled up the the large house.
"Yup. Did the music give it away?"
"A little." He said laughing, and helping me out of the car.
"Thank you kind sir!" I said taking his arm and heading into the house with Baptiste and Celia. "I see he still throws a pretty kick ass party!" I said to Celia as we got through the front door.
"Yup. Nothing has changed." She said laughing.
"Wan't a beer?" I asked Pat.
"Sure. You know your way around?"
"Yup."
"Celia we heading out by the pool?"
"Yup."
"Perfect, Pat I advise you come with us. And don't think you are off the hook missy. I will find out who the guy is" I said returning my attention to Celia. I grabbed Pat a beer, and I grabbed a Panache (Low Alcohol beer--Frenchies! What were they thinking?). We made our way through the crowd, Celia and I said hi to all the familiar faces, as we finally got to the pool.
"Ehhemm. Incoming." Celia whispered nodding her head towards a familiar figure making his way towards us.
"Shit. Should of known."
"Who is it?" Pat asked tightening his grip.
"No one you have to worry about. We dated off and on the years I was here. Don't be mad! I didn't think we were coming here!"
"It's fine. I've had my share of exes."
"Rachel Carson, aren't you a sight for sore eyes!" Maxime exclaimed in French before engulfing me in a huge hug!"
"Maxime! How are you?"
"Good! This the guy you left me for?"
"Nope. He cheated on me. Sorry about that! You deserved better than our shitty long distance relationship."
"Hi there, I'm Maxime" He said changing to English sticking his hand out towards Pat.
"Pat. Nice to meet you too" he said seeming sincere and shaking the outstretched hand.
"So what is everybody drinking? Let me get you guys some more."
"Beer." Pat said.
"Punch" Celia replied.
"Rach?"
"Oh. I'm good for now. I have to drive these losers home." I said smiling. "Thanks though!"
"Alright I'll be right back. " He said weaving his way back through the crowd to his bar.
"Well that wasn't as bad as expected." I said letting out a sigh.
"He seems nice." Pat shrugged.
"He is. I feel bad ending it the way I did though" I said feeling guilty.
"Don't he seemed happy."
"But I called him from half way across the world to tell him that the whole long-distance thing wasn't working, and I had found a new guy…Mike. What a jerk move."
"Haha I love that you feel bad. But honestly it's been 3 years. It seems like he's moved on." I looked over to where him and Celia were talking, and laughing.
"I hope so! They would be cute together!"
"Thank goodness you aren't like the other girls I've dated. There would be a cat fight going on if you were!"
"Haha nahh, they deserve to be happy. I try not to overreact, though it will take some getting used to." I said laughing at the sight of my ex and my sister acting quite friendly. "Plus I have the best guy ever standing by my side, what's the point in getting jealous?"
"Hmm. There isn't one" he said leaning down to give me a kiss.
"HEY MAXIME! Where's our drinks?" I yelled over in French. He looked up knowing he had been caught. Though he looked relieved to see both Pat and I laughing and shaking our heads." The two lovebirds made their way back over, a shade redder than when they had left.
"Thank you" Pat said as he took the beer from Maxime.
"Took you long enough!" I huffed, winking at Celia.
"Ohhh Shush! "
"Nope. You two lovebirds have fun." I said smirking at the pair before dragging Pat away.
"Let's dance!" I said to Pat making our way into the crowded house.
"I like this song." Pat whispered into my ear hands around my hips.
"You like it because you understand two words!"
"Hmm yes, but it's about Sexy Ladies!"
"I know" I said winking as I continued to dance against Pat.
He spun me around and brought me so I was facing him, allowing him to bring his lips down on mine.
"I love ya Rach."
"I love you too!" I said returning his kiss, and moving my hips along with the beat.
"Why do you have to be so good at that?" Pat asked obviously enjoying himself.
"Oh sweetie that's nothing" I said laughing as I upped my dancing.
"Fuck! Rach I'm not going to be able to keep this up much longer!"
"Haha I know. But you love it! Follow me." I said leading him to a place no one would bother us.
"Better?" I asked Pat as we made our way back out to the party.
"Much!" He said kissing me.
"Lovebirds! You seen Celia lately?" Baptiste asked coming up to us.
"Haha I think I'm going to let her have her fun." I said winking as Baptiste covered his ears and scowled.
"Please tell me it's only been one!" He whined.
"Haha you have no faith in your sister! She actually has a boyfriend I think." I said smiling.
"Really? You know the guy?"
"Yes as a matter of fact I do know him. He's sweet. I approve so don't worry about her" I said smiling as relief swept over his face.
"Your taste ain't so bad" He said winking at Pat. "Thank God! It's about time she settled down!"
"It was all in good time, remember how crazy the three of us were? We weren't the greatest of role models" I said laughing.
"True!" he said smiling. "Look how great we turned out now" He said winking.
"It's actually crazy the changes we have made in 3 years huh?"
"You are finally getting married, I have Pat and little Celia is dating!"
"Crazy! I'm going to go hang with my friends a little bit, come get me when you get Celia."
"Sounds like a plan" I said winking.
"Lets go for a walk!" I said turning my attention back to Pat.
"Sure!" The music is getting loud in here, though I must say I'm a fan of these songs with dances that go with them. "
"Oh yah?" I said dancing along with the song.
"You would know the dance!" He said shaking his head laughing.
"Duh! It's the first thing you learn! They play them at all the parties!" I said laughing and following outside. We walked around the perimeter of the backyard just talking. He set his jacket on the grass and laid down, beckoning me to join. We laid like that for a good thirty minutes, just watching the stars, and kissing occasionally.
"We should head back" I whispered against Pat's chest.
"Five more minutes." He said kissing the top of my head, sitting up a little so he could wrap his arms around me.
"Fine, but only because I would stay like this forever if we could." Five minutes later we were back into the party, in search of my French siblings. We found Celia, and told her we should be heading back, as it was already 3:30, and we had the wedding in a day. We said our goodbyes, as Baptiste joined us, and we made our way back home.
"Missy you and I are going to have a little chat!" I said quietly smirking at Celia.
"Sorry! I didn't want if to happen!" She whispered back.
"Hey I approve. He's one guy that will actually appreciate you. Too bad you guys didn't get together sooner. Sorry about that" I said laughing.
"What are you girls talking about?" Baptiste questioned from the back seat.
"None of your business" I said laughing as Celia stuck her tongue out at her brother.
"Fine! Be that way!" He pouted.
"It's not really that interesting!" Pat said laughing.
"Everyone knows but me!"
"You shouldn't have ditched us for your friends then" I said laughing. "You'll meet him at the wedding!" "He is coming right C?"
"Yup. Wanted to run it past you though."
"Oh for sure! I missed the guy" I said laughing. "Alright guys be quiet! The parents will be sleeping!" I said as we made our way into the house.
"See you two tomorrow!" I whispered and waved bye to my siblings and headed of to bed with Pat.
"You looked beautiful tonight!" Pat said as I changed into one of his t-shirts and my shorts. "Still do!"
"Haha thanks. I could say the same about you." I said climbing into the far side of the bed closing my eyes as I felt Pat snuggle up to me.
Wow I thought looking at the clock. Way to sleep away half the day! I left Pat a note saying I had gone running with my host parents, and to make himself at home. We ran a good two hours before heading back. We talked about life, school, work, hockey, and of course Pat. They were very happy with my progress and success. We talked about my hockey tryouts happening in a few weeks, and they wished me good luck. I told them how Pat also played hockey, and that he was a pretty big deal back in North America. They were glad that I had gotten back into it, seeing as they had seen how much I enjoyed it while being here, practicing as much as I could aside from school. Overall they were happy because I was happy. They told me how someday I would marry Pat, and when I did they had to be invited. I just laughed seeing as I hadn't really thought that far ahead. When we got back to the house the three sleepyheads were up. They were all hungover, Pat being the least and Celia and Baptiste being relatively similar.
"Hey Babe!" I said obviously still energetic from my run.
"Hey." He smiled softly, giving me a quick kiss.
"I'm going to grab a quick shower. We have Marie's wedding rehearsal and bridal shower later on today right?" I said.
"Yup, be ready in an hour" Baptiste said.
"Alright perfect. She's going to love our gift." I said smiling at Pat who returned it with a chuckle. With that I went upstairs and had a quick shower. I dried my hair and threw on a bit of make up before changing into some nicer clothes and heading back downstairs. The parents were meeting us later for the rehearsal, while us younger ones were heading over early to exchange gifts. We got there a few minutes later, and went to find Marie and her friends.
"We brought presents!" I sung when I spotted the lucky girl.
"Hey guys!" She said in french, seeing as she wasn't as strong in English as the others. She kissed Baptiste before returning her attention to us. "Presents!"
"Yup! You will love Pat and mine" I said winking.
"Why am I scared?"
"Haha I don't know. But we went out on a limb with our gift." I said smirking.
"Alright well lets get everyone together, so I can open my presents!" She said excitingly and motioned for us to join the rest of the already assembled group. I knew some of the people as her friends but not all of them. Pat and I were introduced, and Marie started going for her gifts. I had no clue why we were doing this as close to the wedding as we were, but hey it's her wedding I thought to myself. Most of the gifts were things like money, cooking products, gift cards to be used when they moved into their new house together… She obviously saved ours until last.
"Enjoy!" I exclaimed smiling. She pulled out the baking ingredients first, which earned a laugh from both her and Baptiste.
"Always got to follow tradition" Baptiste said shaking his head.
"Hey. It isn't breakfast without pancakes!" I said winking.
"I see where you guys are going with this gift" Marie said looking in the bag and then to Pat and I who were both smiling.
"She pulled out the baby clothes, and bear. While I looked over at Baptiste and raised my eyebrow as if to question whether my assumptions were correct. I gave him one last smirk, before returning to the gift. We had also chucked some money in there for their honeymoon, or whatever they wanted. Pat had been much more generous than I was going to be, giving them 500 euros.
"Thanks you two." Marie said addressed towards me.
"She said thanks" I whispered up to Pat.
"Your welcome" we both responded albeit in two different languages. After the gifts were done the group split up and went to their respective parts of the rehearsal dinner. Pat had ditched me for the guys, which I had been fine with.
"How did you know?" Marie said coming to talk with me.
"Haha! Yes! I totally called it!"
"Yah. You got me…now how did you know?"
"Well I knew Baptiste was being an ass, and lazy when it came to proposing, so when I heard you guys were doing it I just guessed that might have something to do with it" I shrugged.
"So have you guys figured out the gender?"
"Not yet, it's only a few months in. I'm surprised more people couldn't tell."
"You aren't showing that bad. Honestly you look great. You look healthy."
"Haha thanks. So does anyone know?"
"Just the parents, but no one else. Well except you." She said winking.
"Wow! Don't I feel special. I'm just glad you guys are getting married. I better get to see that niece or nephew of mine!" I whispered.
"For sure. Baptiste was kind of contemplating having you as the godmother!"
"Are you freaking kidding! I would love to! I'm going to spoil the kid to death!" I exclaimed still whispering.
"Haha I figured!" She said laughing.
"Anybody for the God-Father?" I asked quietly.
"Not yet. We have a couple ideas but nothing concrete." She said smiling.
"I'm so excited for you guys" I said squeezing her shoulder. Making my way back over to the group of guys.
"What was that about?" Pat whispered down into my ear.
"I'll tell you later." I whispered back obviously happy.
"So did she tell you about being the Godmother?" Baptiste whispered into my other ear.
"Yes. You nut! Why didn't you tell me?" I whispered back.
"You seemed to guess pretty well" he whispered.
"Yes because you had a stick up your ass, and were too afraid to ask her any sooner!" I whispered back. He started laughing, and I did as well.
"So will you be the godmother?" He whispered.
"Are you kidding? Do you even have to ask?" I went back to speaking normally, but in English.
"Haha I guess I got my answer. Thanks Sis!"
"No prob. Bro" I said winking as he went off to find his future wife.
"Sometimes I wish I understood French" Pat sighed from behind me.
"You would have had to understood whisper to have understood that." I said laughing.
"Very true. So what's got you all cheery?"
"Well…" I said making sure no one was paying attention before spilling the news. "I was right!" I whispered to Pat.
"About..Really? Damn your good!"
"I try" I said bowing.
"You are such a goof sometimes." he said laughing and shaking his head.
"And that wasn't even the best part!" I said smiling.
"Hmm… What else? "
"Guess who's the newest Godmother?" I asked whispering again.
"Ummm. You?" He said smiling.
"Yup. Cool huh? Now I have a great excuse to take vacations out here!" I said laughing.
"You are going to spoil that kid to death!" he whispered.
"Haha I know. Now lets get out of here. We aren't part of the actual wedding party."
"Alright."
"I'm just going to say bye to Marie and Baptiste, then we can one of the cars and head back." We said our goodbyes, got their apologies due to the fact we weren't in the wedding party, and got the keys and headed out.
"House to ourselves? What ever are we going to do?" I said laughing trying to look clueless.
"You know exactly what!" Pat said carrying me up the stairs.
"Im not sure to what you are referring" I said laughing. That got me nothing but tickles.
"Sorry bed" I said as I was flung back on it. That earned a chuckle from Pat.
"Why must you be so good at that?" I asked as my body regained its composure.
"It's in my DNA" Pat said winking before showering me in another batch of kisses.
"There's cocky Pat coming out" I said laughing.
"Lets not even start with that again! I had enough embarrassment that day."
"Oh yah that! But it had to be worth the embarassement!"
"Hmmm. I guess" He said smiling. "You up for round two?"
"Do I have a choice?" I giggled.
"Nope." He said resuming his assault.
"We should probably do some laundry tomorrow before the wedding" I said smiling looking over at Pat.
"Probably. But we also need to shower."
"Figures. You are still up for more!" I said shaking my head. "Tonight we shower and that's it, I need to be able to walk tomorrow. In heels!" I added laughing.
"I guess I can live with that." He said laughing and getting up to follow me into the bathroom. After showering I got changed into his T-shirt again, and my pyjama shorts, and went down to the kitchen with Pat in search of food. We grabbed some bread and made some makeshift sandwiches. Afterwards it was around 10 so we called it a night and set an alarm for the next day, which was the big day. I was so excited! I was thinking of the wedding as I fell asleep.
"Fuck! It's already 8?" I said slamming my hand down on the table grabbing my phone and turning off the alarm. I decided to let Pat sleep a bit longer, seeing as he didn't need as much time to get ready. Thank god for dual sinks I thought as both Celia and I settled into the bathroom to do our hair. I curled mine loosely, nothing too crazy. Celia seemed to be doing the same thing, only difference being the colour and length of our hair. I was dirty blonde and blessed with a crazy tanning ability I had been told. I went and woke Pat up after I finished doing my hair, as my host mom and dad were just getting up as well. As soon as my hair was sprayed in place, I switched over to make up. Really only having to worry about my eyes and lips, made it an easy job. After I was satisfied, I headed back to my room and grabbed the dress. Pat looked cute in one of his hockey suits, on which I complimented him as I was putting on my dress. After Pat zipped me up, and kissed me we headed down to meet the rest of the family, other than Baptiste who was already at the church. There was quite a few people already there as we arrived. Pat and I made our way around with the family, welcoming everyone and thanking them for their presence. We took our seats in the front, and waited for the wedding we had all been waiting anxiously for. Marie looked like a princess as she walked down the isle, I could tell Baptiste was thinking the same thing. ".. I know pronounce you husband and wife", even Pat understood that part. Everyone hugged and laughed as they made their way out to the reception hall. The meal was great, I said a little speech about the couple and what we had been through together, we danced a lot, and made some new memories this time including Pat. The rest of the night flew by quickly. I loved weddings.The reception was well done, and amusing. I had to explain a lot to Pat, which I was alright doing. We all headed home around 2 at night. I felt sad knowing this was my last night here. At least the flight wasn't until later on in the day, so I still had some time to spend.
"Let me guess. You don't want to go home." Pat said pulling me into a hug, resting his chin on the top of my head.
"That obvious huh?" I smiled up at him.
"A little" he said smiling and making the sign for a little with his fingers.
"It's not that I don't want to go home, it's more the fact I wish these people could be there. Stupid Ocean!" I said pouting.
"I agree, Maybe we could just pick up the house and move it over."
"Haha. Thanks. I'm done packing so lets get our stuff downstairs, and then chill with everyone before we leave." We grabbed our suitcases and set them by the door, and joined everyone else in the living room.
"What ya watching-- Oh!" I said bursting into laughter.
"Damn. That video is going to haunt me everywhere I go" Pat said shaking his head as he noticed what was coming out of the projector.
"Celia and her investigative skills I presume?" I said between laughs.
"Damn straight! You are pretty good huh?"
"Alright." I shrugged smiling.
"I'm going to miss you guys!" she whined.
"You are welcome chez moi whenever" I said winking.
"I might take you up on that, near the end of the summer. Maybe we can take an LA trip." She said winking.
"So who's taking us to the airport?"
"We all are!" Baptiste replied.
"Well we better get going!" I smiled sadly. We made it to our terminal, and said goodbye to everyone. I'd be lying if I said no tears were shed. Maybe not full on crying, but definitely some tears. Baptiste and Pat had their little guy moment, talking a bit before moving on. I said goodbye once again and we headed into customs. The plane ride was mediocre. Pat and I watched a movie, which I fell asleep through. Pat shook me awake just as we were landing.
"Sorry for sleeping the whole flight" I smiled up at him.
"No worries. I slept a bit too. I'm used to the whole flight thing." He said understandingly.
"I have to up and leave again though." I said pouting.
"Hmm yes, back to the north."
"Yup up to Tazerville." I said laughing.
"Don't call it that pleeeaasee!"
"First an arena, next a lake, why not the whole damn town, frig the whole country" I said winking.
"Could you imagine?"
"Win another cup, and we will see! It could very well be possible. Maybe we will change our flag to have a picture of him instead of the leaf!" I said laughing.
"That would be a sight." He said laughing as we made our way into the airport.
"So much for that privacy lasting" I muttered, as people stared.
"It was nice wasn't it. Being able to walk around not having to worry about people wanting things from you."
"Haha yes. But the media still hounds you more than they do me."
True. Speaking of media let's get out of here!" He said nodding at the people with cameras.
"Seriously? We are in the country for five minutes and the Paparazzi already knows where to find us?" I exlcaimed following Pat out towards the parking lot shuttle, that would take us to the park and fly lot. Thankfully we made it to the car without anymore close run ins with the press.
"I guess that whole pregnancy rumour hasn't blown over quite yet." I said laughing.
"I'd say not." He said shaking his head. "Not too worried about it though" he said laughing.
"That's good." I said winking. "You dropping me off at home?"
"Yup."
"Thanks. So how'd you like my French family?"
"They were great. I had a blast. It was nice to get away, especially with you" he said winking.
"I'm glad. Now back to workouts and the media." I pouted.
"You missed it" he said winking.
"Nope. But I'm excited to get back on skates again. The media could kiss my ass" I said winking.
"I bet. That I would love to see." He winked, as we pulled up to my apartment.
"Mhmm. Thanks for coming with me." I said getting out of the car and grabbing my suitcase from the trunk.
"Anytime babe." he said grabbing my suitcase and opening the door to the building.
"Alright I'll call ya tomorrow. Probably later because I'm going to sleep in, but I'll call you." I said smiling as I rested in the open doorway.
"Haha ok. You are still coming to the gala Wednesday right?"
"Yup. Wouldn't miss it."
"Great! I'll see ya soon Rach!"
"Love you."
"You too." He said leaning in to give me a kiss.
"EEHEM. Lovebirds get a room." I heard El say from behind us.
"Alright." I said laughing. "Pat want to come in?" I asked winking.
"Ok. Not what I meant!" El said laughing.
"I know. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Alright. Later Carson."
"Later Kane." I said as he made his way back to the elevator.
"Sooooo. How was your trip?" El asked as I shut the door.
"Great! I'll tell you about it tomorrow over coffee. I'm about to pass out from exhaustion" I said laughing.
"Sounds good. I'm just heading over to Brandon's anyways."
"Oooooh. Tell me more!" I said laughing and wiggling my eyebrows.
"It's not like that."
"Haha ok. You guys official yet?"
"Nahh. I think we are better off just friends."
"You keep telling yourself that. That boy has it hard for you" I said winking.
"Whatever!" She said shrugging it off, though a little smile broke through.
"You just wait and see!" I called as I made it into my room.
"See ya tomorrow Rach! I expect details." She said as she shut the door and headed off, leaving me peace and quite to get a good sleep in.

Notes

Long one!!! Let me know whatcha think xoxoxoxo Jordan