The One Night That Changed My Life Forever

"So she doesn't remember anything?" Joyce asked.
"Well not anything recent, like 3 years recent. She still thinks she's with Mike, doesn't know me or Jon, or even Ellie."
"That sucks. I feel terrible."
"Not your fault." I smiled softly feeding Bella some of her baby food. "All I can do is hope her memory comes back. I'm going to try and get her back out on the ice when she feels more comfortable around me. You could tell she was freaked out yesterday."
"She should remember hockey then. She was playing when she was together with Mike. Is she still on the team?"
"Yeah. Just on Injury Reserve. Stan would love to have her back whenever she's ready. The guys miss her too."
"I'd hope the rookie of the year still has her spot on your team." Scott said sitting down alongside his family at the table.
"Her spot's safe if she wants it." I said laughing. "I hope playing will make her happy, even if she doesn't remember."
"Who know's maybe it will help her remember?" Dan said shrugging.
"I hope. Everyone ready to make the trip over to the hospital?" I asked.
"Yes. I'd say its about that time." Joyce said agreeing and putting the dishes in the dishwasher. Everyone scattered and got ready to leave.
"This is going to be interesting Joyce." I said chuckling.
"Mom. And we'll talk some sense into that girl of ours." She said shaking her head as she opened the door to Rachel's room.
"MOM! DAD! DYL! SCOTTY! " She exclaimed as they all went and gave her a hug, instantly feeling like I didn't belong.
"Bella. Stop pulling at my leg." I said laughing and scooping her up and holding her on my other side. "Kiss." I said and she smiled and kissed my cheek. "Good girl." I said smiling and rubbing my nose against hers as she turned her head to get away from it. I talked with my brothers in law as Rach talked with her parents.
"You know something." Scott said to Dyl and I.
"What?" We both asked.
"Pat here is a great Daddy." He said smirking.
"Why thank you. I mean it's not like it takes hard work or anything."
"No but you are. You've taken on the role of a single parent for the past 5 months, and done amazing at it. I mean Bella adores you, and Patrick well he's still alive so…." I laughed.
"Couldn't have your sister waking up and wondering why her kids are gone." I winked. "Nahh I love it. Being a dad. It puts everything else into perspective. So Scotty I hear you got engaged?" I said.
"Maybe." He said smirking. "Her name is Grace, she's the girl I brought to your wedding."
"Yes! I remember her. She was so sweet, I liked her. You chose well." I said clapping him on the shoulder.
"Thanks. I'm pretty excited to tell you the truth."
"I get it, believe me. Though our wedding was planned in just over seven months, so it was a bit stressful but exciting nonetheless. How about you Dyl, your just a bit older than me any women in your life? Still dating that girl you brought to the wedding?"
"Sydney. Yeah." He said blushing slightly, which both Scott and I picked up on.
"Aweee he's blushing about a girl." Scott said getting on his case just like older brothers were supposed to.
"Shut up." He muttered.
"I'm happy for ya." I said smiling. "She was nice too. You guys both have great taste." I said laughing.
"We could say the same about you." They chuckled.
"Ahhh yes my taste in women was impeccable when it came to marrying your sister." I said laughing. "Best thing that ever happened to me. Now she just has to remember me. " I said looking over at Rach, hoping she could see the love pouring out of me. After a good stare I returned my attention back to the guys and my girl that was wiggling around on the side of me.
"You want to go see mommy?" I asked when she pointed her hands over towards Rach on the bed. "Alright." I said setting her on the end of the bed. It brought tears to my eyes as I watched her crawl up the bed towards her mother. The conversation in front of us stopped as our little girl made it up to Rach.
"Kiss." I said smiling watching her give Rachel a kiss and holding her hands out wanting to be held.
"Hey little one." Rach said picking her up. "I'm sorry I just can't remember, what's her name." She asked shakily, looking at us afraid that we would be mad that she couldn't remember.
"Hey, hey. It's ok I'm not mad that you don't remember." I said smiling softly, trying to reassure her that it was ok. "Her name is Isabella Grace Kane. You actually picked out the name."
"She looks like an Isabella. I'm really sorry I don't remember you. You seem like a great guy, obviously my family loves you like a son. I hope you won't hate me when I can't remember."
"I could never hate you Rach." I said smiling. "Just let me know what you need. If you need space I can give it to you, if you need to talk we can talk, just let me know ok."
"Thank you for understanding. It's a lot to take in. It's like I'm trying to re-write over a cd that can't be rewritten. It's like my mind remembers one thing and then it doesn't end up being true anymore.
"It's not your fault. I'll love you no matter what. Right Bella? We love mommy even though she doesn't know us? Yes we do don't we." I said smiling as Bella kissed her face again. "So, your parents are leaving tomorrow morning and your brothers have to get back to work, school, and their jobs. I just need to know if you are comfortable enough to come back to our place? You can have the guest room and everything, no pressure, nothing. It's just you can leave today.." I stopped as I realized I was rambling.
"You wouldn't mind?" She asked hesitantly.
"Not at all. It's your house too, and if something is bugging you then just let me know and we can change it." I said.
"Alright. I'll try it. Don't be offended when I treat you like a stranger, or ask the stupidest of questions as it all truly is new to me."
"I'll let you adjust no worries."
"I think it's good for you to go back, maybe it will help you remember." Joyce said squeezing her daughter's hand.
"I want to remember, but I don't think I will anytime soon. It's completely blackened out, I thought I was in 3rd year University and in Ottawa when I first woke up. I've been informed since that that was over three years ago. "
"Are you ready to get out of this bed?" Dan asked.
"Ugghh yes. It's sooooo boring here Dad." Rach said groaning.
That's my girl. I thought to myself, laughing in my head. "Alright I'll sign the papers, and meet you out in the room. You good with Bella?" I asked looking at everyone in the room. Everyone nodded so I went to find the station where I could sign her out.
"It's great isn't it. Five months was a long time huh?" The nurse said smiling at me.
"Too long." I said chuckling. "Let me see that lovely bill of mine."
"Damn, should of taken her to Canada." I said laughing. "Just joking, you guys kept her alive and that is worth more than anything money could buy. Thank you." I said handing over my card.
"You're welcome. Thank you for never giving up. It was nice to see you show up and just talk to her. I know you two have a great life ahead of you. I hope I don't see you around here anytime soon." She said smiling and handing me my card and receipt.
"Thanks again." I said smiling, and heading back to the room with a sleeping baby in the crook of my arm.
"Patrick!" Joyce said looking at the receipt and back to me.
"It's fine." I said waving it off.
"No it's not!" She said eyes widening at the total of the bill.
"Yes it is ma. You gave me your daughter, I can pay a little hospital bill." I said laughing.
"Little? I mean look at it Dan. Nothing like Canada."
"Crap." His eyes widened too. Soon enough I handed the receipt over to the boys.
"Really! It's no big deal." I said laughing. "I do make 10 million a season so a couple thousand isn't going to hurt."
"Patrick its almost one hundred thousand."
"Yes. And if that's the price I have to pay to save my wife…well Rachel, uhh your daughter." I said not wanting her to feel awkward "then I'm fine paying it. Now lets get home and get some food."
"FIne." Joyce huffed, defeated. "Thank you, it's the thought that counts Patrick. I will be forever grateful."
"Believe me if I was the one in the hospital, Rach would have paid some of her salary for my bills it's truly no problem." I said as Dan helped Rachel up as she got re- accustomed to standing on her feet. A few minutes later Joyce had Bella hanging off her, and Rachel was walking on her own strength. We had gotten a lot of smiles, waves, and congratulations on the way out. We made it to the car and I reclined the front seat as Dan helped Rach into the car. I fastened Pat in, and Joyce did the same with Bella, and the others climbed in, just having enough seats for everyone. The drive wasn't too bad, there was a bit of traffic but not rush hour as it was Saturday. I parked the car in its spot and opened Rachel's door helping her out.
"Thanks." She said regaining her balance.
"Don't mention it." I smiled back as she took her dad's arm and I took mini me out of his car seat. I smiled and nodded at the elderly couple who smiled at Rachel and I.
"Hey guys. How are the grandkids?" I asked.
"Great. They do still want to meet you whenever you're up to it." They said smiling.
"Just let me know when they are over, and I'll make a surprise visit."
"Haha ok. Nice to see her back." She whispered.
"I know. Too long. She doesn't remember you though if your wondering why she's got the blank stare going." I whispered back.
"Awee! Sweetie, we hope you remember soon."
"Our elevator conversations are not to be forgotten!" The man said agreeing, getting a smile from Rach just as the doors dinged and we were home.
"Let me know, really just knock and if I'm home I'll come and say hi to the grandkids." I said turning the key.
"Thanks Pat. Glad you made it through the accident Rach. Your man here was very, very sad without you. Just having you here makes him happy, even if you don't remember. See you again soon Pat."
"Yup." I said laughing and opening the door. The first thing I did was quickly put the sleeping kids in their rooms. Then I went back to the living room.
"Ok so your family has the two guest rooms. So I thought I'd take the couch and you can have the bed. " I said looking at Rach.
"You sure that's good for your back? Don't you have a game tomorrow?" Scott asked.
"Haha no its not, but I'll be fine. I did buy the comfiest couch around. Yah, we play tomorrow, against Carolina, then Ottawa Wednesday." I said smirking.
"You're totally going down!" Scott and Dylan both exclaimed.
"Nahhh, we'll win. It would be a definite win if your sister was back out on my line again though." I said laughing.
"I was pretty good at hockey wasn't I? Did we end up winning the championships?"
"Sis you won them every year. You did do another exchange to France third year so that's the only year you didn't play. 3 time champ."
"Sweet!" She exclaimed. "I do love hockey."
"Ughhhh thank god you didn't forget it." I said laughing. "So I know you're new back to the world, but you down for a short practice tomorrow with the guys? I'll make sure they just leave you alone, and let you play some hockey."
"I think I could do that. Plus I'd be left alone here anyways. Who takes the kids?"
"We'll Becca stayed here while you were in the hospital. She's your friend don't worry, I'll explain that story later. But tomorrow Ellie will take them." I said.
"She's the one from the hospital, that tells things like they are?"
"The one and only. You two used to live together, before she got engaged and well we got married."
"Oh, ok. I think I can remember that. I'm going to go sleep then, tomorrow sounds like a long day." She said starting to walk. "Um, where's the bedroom?"
"Here let me do the tour." I said night to the rest of her family, telling them to make themselves comfy and that everything was fair game.
"Ok, so this is the bathroom. Usually we both share it but it can be yours for now. I'll take the guest room one once your family leaves. Don't mind all the guyish stuff, I'll move it after practice tomorrow. Towels are here. All the stuff that's yours is in the cupboard behind the mirror, and then these drawers on the lefthand side. Shower is self explanatory, as well as the bath. I'm going to grab some clothes for tonight, and yours are on this side of the closet. Obviously very girly, not my style whatsoever." I said chuckling, getting a smile out of her. "Bed is here, you should be warm enough and the bed's really comfy. I'll be in the living room so find me if you need anything okay?"
"Got it. Thanks." She said going into the closet as I wen't back out to the living room. Everyone had returned to their rooms, so I grabbed one of the warm blankets from the hall closet and dropped it on the bed. I knocked on the door, making sure Rach was decent before grabbing a pillow from the bed. I waited until she was done in the bathroom and settled in bed before taking a quick shower and changing for bed. Joyce had taken the baby monitor, saying it was the least she could do, and I got a great full night sleep.
**
I woke up to my alarm, rubbing my eyes. I smelled food, healthy food and smiled. Fully expecting to see Joyce in the kitchen I was surprised to see Rachel cooking omelettes. Somehow she remembered one of my favourite pre game breakfasts without even knowing it.
"Did you sleep well?" I said yawning and stretching as I made my way into the kitchen.
"Your bed is really comfy." She exclaimed.
"Haha yes. That's not the first time you've told me that believe me." I said putting grinds in the coffee maker and turning it on.
"Coffee huh?"
"Yeah. You were pretty dependant on it the years I've known you. Those smell delicious." I said smiling.
"Why are you smiling it's just eggs.".
"Maybe to you, but to me that is one of my favourite pre game breakfasts and seeing you in front of me making it, not even realizing it makes me unbelievably happy. "
"Well I'm glad. I just always made them in Ottawa so a lucky coincidence I guess." She said pushing me a plate.
"You found everything alright?" I said pouring some coffee.
"After a lot of drawer opening yes. The food side was pretty easy."
"Mmmmmm Breakfast!" The boys came out and grabbed their plates and started eating right away. "Thanks sis." They both exclaimed between bites.
"Kids." The parents came out shaking their heads but taking some food. I put the dishes away and announced that we had to leave for practice soon. We were dropping everyone off at the airport on our way to the UC. Once everyone was all packed, and ready to go. I drove Rachel's family to O'Hare before heading back to the UC. I went into the building with the biggest smile on my face. Rachel went to chat with Ellie, who said she'd help her to the locker room just after everyone leaves so it could both be a surprise and also be easier for her to get her bearings.
"Kaner, you get a good night's sleep last night?" Sharpie asked.
"Yes!" I exclaimed. "A full night, and mini me didn't even cry!" I exclaimed.
"Man my kids always cried." Sharpie complained pouting.
"I guess I'm just the better Patrick after all." I said smirking and settling down at my stall.
"You didn't tell em did you." I whispered to Jon.
"Nahh Brandon and I figured you'd want to do the honours." He whispered back.
"Thanks." I whispered smiling.
"She come?"
"Yah. Going to go out and skate and everything." I said quietly and smiling.
"What are the young ones whispering about?" Sharpie asked looking between Jon and I.
"Just our next prank on you Sharpie. Better watch your back." I said smirking, getting a chuckle from everyone in the room.
"Alright, get your butts out on the ice, we've got a game we HAVE to win tonight."
"HAVE?" Shaw rebutted.
"Yes. HAVE. Right Pat?"
"Yah, we HAVE to win." I said laughing.
"You guys are weird Andrew said laughing and shaking his head as he went onto the ice.
"Yo, Q." Jon called to our coach, and motioned him back to where we were.
"Yes. What's up Jon, Patrick? You guys seem awfully happy." He said looking between the two of us. We shrugged.
"Someone's here to see you." Jon said pointing at the two girls walking, talking and laughing as they made their way down the hall.
"She's awake?" He exclaimed.
"Yeah, two days ago. Having a little problem with her memory though so, don't freak out when she doesn't know you." I said.
"I'm happy for you Pat." He said giving me a hug.
"Thanks. She's ready to try practicing. Hockey's one of the things she can remember so she was pretty excited to come this morning even though even I'm strange to her at the moment. "
"Yeah? She's welcome out on the ice whenever." Q said waving at the girls as they came up to us.
"Rach, this is your coach. We call him Q." I said smiling.
"Nice to see you on two feet again." Q said giving her an awkward hug at best. "I hear you will be joining us for practice."
"If it's not a problem."
"Not at all, you are still on the team just on IR. Just know the media will catch wind that you are practicing with us again."
"It's only a matter of time right? I was in the media a lot wasn't I when I played here before."
"Not too bad. You two were in the media more for your engagement, kid, dating, and how you took Chicago's most eligible bachelor away. But yah number one rookie at the awards was pretty newsworthy."
"I see, well I'm going to get changed then and meet you out there. I might need Pat's help getting my bearings."
"That's fine. As long as he gets some practice in. See you out there, come on you two." He said and we followed him out the tunnel waving back before getting on the ice.
"Pat what the hell did you put in your cereal this morning?" Crow complained as I was beating him left to right.
"I actually had and omelette." I said laughing. "Don't know I'm just energized I guess." I said shrugging.
"Well save it for the game." He grumbled.
"Ehhhh I have enough for both." I said winking, and lifting the puck over his shoulder and into the net.
"Oh would you just go away!" He exclaimed. "Show off!"
"Fine I will." I said telling coach I'd be right back before heading to the locker room.
"Damn is it ever nice to see you in your gear again. That bed was getting boring to look at." I said laughing.
"This whole place feels foreign. I think I would have loved it though. The crazy fans. great hockey… Oh yah I saw Abby again. That's her name right? She's a lover, that's for sure. Seeing all these people who know and love me makes me hate not being able to remember."
"It's not your fault." I said giving her a hug. "Now you ready to get practicing?" I said grinning.
"Yes but can everyone take it slow on me. I've got to learn who everyone is over again. "
"Ill get Jon to announce that we have a special guest and to be easy on your brain." I said tapping her head. "Come out in a couple minutes k?"
"Alright." I skated back over to Jon and then looked at Coach who nodded and whistled the boys over.
"Jon." He nodded for him to take the lead.
"Alright, well today we have a special guest with us today. Go easy on said guest as she doesn't know any of you. No, not one of you." He said laughing. "Don't scare her off as she really doesn't know you, and needs to process everyone individually got it." Jon said in serious mode.
"Got it. But who doesn't know us? Especially a girl?"
"One who doesn't remember anything from the last three years." Jon said.
"Sharpie looked over at me and I nodded. "Always have to figure it out before everyone else Sharpie." I said shaking my head.
"Hey its in my last name. I'm Sharp. Now where is she you two?"
"Locker room." Jon said laughing as Sharpie skated off.
"What does he know?" Everyone else started wondering. Coach whistled for us to start practicing again . I saw her and Sharpie talking, making their way towards the ice. Eyes widened and everyone looked at Jon and I. We exchanged glances, smiled and shrugged, before glaring at everyone motioning for them to give her space and to take it slowly.
"Yah, that explains it." Crow said shaking his head at me.
'Maybe." I said winking.
"She actually doesn't remember?"
"Nope. Thought she was in second year college in Ottawa when she woke up." I said.
"That sucks."
"Ehh she's alive, I'm good with it. " I said skating around and grabbing a puck before heading over to where coach was explaining the drill. Rach and Crow had got to talking, and I had a feeling we were about to see just how much she remembered.
"She's still got it eh?" Jon said as we set up for the next drill but got sidetracked watching Rach and Crow face-off.
"She does." We said waving and laughing at Crow as he got scored on yet again. By the end of practice Rach had met everyone again, but not for extensive periods of time. Most had just said their glad to have you back, and then left her to get situated. She had also joined in on the second half of the scrimmage, not playing half bad for someone who hadn't played since June the year before.
"Not bad." Coach said confirming my thoughts.
"A little rusty, but she's still knows the game and has the skill. " I said agreeing.
"Keep working on her. Bring her to practices and get her game ready, and if she's wants I can get her off the IR."
"Yah? I'll see what she thinks." I said thanking coach before sitting on the bench in my clothes and skates watching Rach take shot after shot, and work on her stick handling.
"We worked on that last year try this, your body might remember." I said dumping the bucket of pucks and heaving her stickhandle around them. She wasn't bad I contemplated watching her do the drill. I gave her a couple more drills before we had a race. Which she still won even at a disadvantage. After another half hour on the ice we cleaned up the pucks and made our way silently to the locker room.
"This one's your stall." I said pointing to the stall in-between Jon and I, that was taken over currently by a call up. There's a single shower you would use just behind the door over there. I'll be out here when you're done showering then we can get you back. You must be exaushted."
"A bit." She said nodding, taking her towel and heading off to shower. Twenty minutes later we were walking out of the UC, usually it would be hand in hand but now there was a space between us. Ellie had left me the kids just before her and Brandon left and I carried them to the car with us. I put them in their seats, put the car in drive after Rach had her seat belt on, and drove back home.
"So coach says he can take you off Injury Reserve and put you back on the Roster if you want? No pressure, and it doesn't have to be right away or anything."
"Give me a couple weeks and I'll let you know how I feel. I should be good. Do you want your room back?"
"Nahhh you can have the comfy bed. I'll take the same comfy bed but in the guest room after putting the kids to bed. Are you comfortable looking after them if they get fussy during my sleep?"
"I'll do my best. " She said.
"Alright." I said chucking her the monitor, putting the two kids to bed, and changing into sweats before crashing in my bed and falling instantly to sleep.
I awoke to a knock on my door twenty minutes before my alarm was supposed to go off, not bad I thought to my self as I climbed out of bed and opened the door.
"He doesn't like me." She exclaimed holding the crying baby.
"Awee he does, he's just missed you for the past month. He hasn't been to good with women for that matter. Just let him realize who you are and he'll be better." I said chuckling as she offered him again to me. "How was Bella?"
"Haha I think she knows me. She hasn't let me leave her sight ever since she woke up. I feel bad I can't be that mother she wants."
"Don't be so hard on yourself. It's not your fault the guy lost control and hit you head on."
"How is he?"
"Fine. You got the worst of it. He had few minor injuries, nothing life threatening though."
"Good." She said smiling softly.
"Did you get any sleep?"
"Yah, Bella is sleeping in the bed. I'm guessing you let her cuddle with you?"
"Maybe." I said grinning. "We were both two lonely people." I said laughing.
"Well she's in the room.
"Alright. Perfect. You up for a hockey game tonight?" `
"With the kids?" She said looking worried.
"Nah, Becca said she can come over to watch them."
"I guess. You can get me a ticket?"
"Oh Rach…. what am I going to do with you. You are a player you don't need a ticket. But I got you and Abby glass side seats anyways. You always used to like to watch from a fan's point of view."
"Thank you. Will this Becca be here soon?"
"Yeah." I said smiling. "But now I need some food." I said laughing.
"I made pasta. I don't remember what you eat so I just went with pasta. "
"Ahhh thank you. " I said giving her a quick hug before heading into the kitchen to tame my grumbling stomach.
"So… I know this is going to sound stupid, but what did I wear to the games?"
"Lately you played. Before you started playing you'd wear my jersey, but I'd say now you should probably wear your own jersey."
"Oh, okay right that makes sense."
"Do you want the one with your last name or mine? It doesn't matter to me."
"I'll take mine, just because I don't want to draw too much attention. "
"Alright." I said showing her the collection of jerseys further back in the closet and leaving her to get ready after grabbing my suit.
"Hey Becca." I said opening the door as I was finishing buttoning my tie and had just started on my tie.
"So… I hear the wife's awake. You must be happy." She said
"I am." I said closing the door behind her. "Just need to get that memory of her's back."
"Right. Ellie mentioned that. She'll get it back. You convinced her to go today, so that's already an accomplishment."
"Yes. Speaking of we've got to go." I said fixing my tie. "The kids are asleep, everything is where it usually is. Here's a couple hundred."
"Patrick." She said looking at me.
"Just take it." I said laughing and shaking my head. "You need it more than me. Plus you helped me so much over the past few months."
"Yah, which you paid me for. Thank you." She said pocketing the bills as I went and knocked on the door.
"Rach. We gotta go."
"Coming." I heard her call scrambling around finding her last minute things before opening the door.
"Ready." She exclaimed.
"You look great, don't worry." I said laughing as she started to look self conscious.
"Thanks." She mumbled.
"Ready? I've got to be there like in a few minutes."
"Yes, just need my shoes." She said looking around.
"Closet to the left." I said pointing towards the door.
"Thanks." She sighed as she found a pair of boots she liked and slipped them on.
"Bye Becca!" I called.
"Have fun you two, good luck tonight." I heard her call back as we made it out the door.
"Alright, sorry again but what is your number?" She said wincing as we drove out of the garage.
"Man you were not up on your hockey facts three years ago. 88." I said smiling.
"Sorry."
"S'alright."
"Just tell me to shut up when you are tired of hearing my dumbass questions."
"Ask away, I don't mind." I said pulling into my parking spot. "That's your spot." I said pointing to the sign that had her name written on it.
"Man. All I remember is that I'm a Sens fan."
"Was." I corrected. "Your favourite team kind of changes when you start playing for a rival team."
"Well my brothers don't seem so supportive of you guys."
"Haha not with you out, no. They did cheer for us with you playing though."
"You don't need bandwagon fans anyways."
"Right." I chuckled opening the door to the United Center heading towards the locker room.
"Pat." I saw Abby waving from beside the locker room door.
"Abby." I smiled. "Take care of the wife." I whispered smiling, waving goodbye to the girls before making my way into the locker room.
**************
Rachel's POV
Waking up was even scarier than whatever happened to me. I had heard a foreign voice begging me to question; who the hell it was and where was I? What had happened to me? Crap! Am I in a hospital? I thought to myself as my eyes fluttered open and I took in my surroundings. Definitely a hospital, weird I have no clue why I'm here. Must have been knocked out or something playing hockey.
"Who the hell are you?" I growled at the man beside my bed.
"Excuse me."
"Holy Fuck!" He said eyes widening and jumping back. "You're awake!" He exclaimed.
Yah but you still didn't answer my question buddy, seriously had to admit he was good looking but still who the hell is he?
"And you didn't answer my question. Who are you?" I asked yet again.
"Ahh shit. Fuck. I'm Jon."
Quite a mouth this one has on him I thought to myself. Am I supposed to know a Jon? I thought to myself confused.
"Can I ask what you were doing beside my bed?"
"You've been in a coma for five months Rachel." He said leaving the room in a haste. A coma? The heck? This is just too much. Where was Mike. I wanted him and not this guy.
"So can I ask what are you doing in the room of a five month coma patient?"

"You really don't remember do you?"

"Remember what?"
"Never mind." He said sighing loudly. I'm so confused right now.
"I've got to call Pat."
"Who's Pat? And where the hell is Mike?"
"Long story. Let the doctor do his tests."
Mike needed to get here fast and explain what the hell was going on.
"Sorry Doc but what the hell is happening?"
"Right. Long story. I'll let the others explain it to you as I don't know all the details. Get some rest okay."
'Fine." I huffed. I was tired I thought getting comfy and settling in to get some sleep.
I woke up to the sound of people talking outside of my room. One voice sounded familiar, the others didn't.
Mike's here? Finally some answers right?…. I mean a coma for five months, did I get levelled into the boards or something? Oh nope that's right. I'm suffering from memory loss. Friggin great. I thought to myself the morning after. Not Ottawa but Chicago, I've got two friggin kids and I'm only 25 in a few days, a husband, and hockey for an NHL team? The only good thing was that I knew my family was coming today. Other than that I have no clue what to think. I felt bad, I think I caused my well husband's heart to break last night, I didn't know. I ate bits and pieces of my lunch, and laid back to watch some TV.
"The Blackhawks took the game against the Canadiens two days ago and we look forward to the game against Carolina tomorrow afternoon. Up next some interviews."

Blackhawks, that was the hockey team I was on right? I returned my eyes back onto the screen.
"Captain. What do you have to say about the game you guys pulled off tonight?"

"It was a good game, everyone came to play and that showed in the score."

"A goal and two assists, are you happy with your performance tonight?"

"Fairly. I think I played well, but a lot of the other guys made those points possible."

"Alright thanks for your time and good luck back in Chicago Sunday."

"Thanks."

So he plays too, I thought back to the man who had originally been in my room. The next name brought my focus back to the TV.
"Patrick great game tonight."

"Thanks."

"A couple goals and an assist, not bad for a game against tough competition."

"No, we just were on our game tonight. Can't say anything bad about anyone's performance tonight. "

"One question a lot of people have been asking, any news about your wife?"

"Unfortunately no. Just have to think positively and hope she wakes up I guess."

"Has this season been different without her presence on the ice?"

"For sure, but we've had some really good call ups to fill in the gap."

"Thank you for your time, and we hope for the best."

"Thank you."

Great. Talking about me on TV. Man my life is so confusing right now.
**
Home sweet home, that except everything was new again for me. There was no doubt I was married to the guy. He called my parent's mom and Dad, and well there was no way the kids weren't real. Bella was a cutie. I wanted to give her what she wanted from me, but I honestly didn't know a thing about her. I caught my eyes canvasing over the pictures hung up on the walls.
"He made me happy didn't he?" I asked my parents looking at the events in the pictures, those that I had no recollection of.
"Yeah." Dad said looking over the pictures. "Haven't seen these in a while. That one is the two of you and his family and the Stanley cup, those are the ones just after Bella was born one from London, one from Buffalo where he's from. That one is you at the olympics with the guys from the Blackhawks and their medals. This one is of when you two went to Baptiste's wedding last year.
"Wait he finally did it?"
"Yes." My dad said chuckling. "That one is of you guys in LA during the playoffs. The one over there my favourite is you guys and the team not even realizing you were getting your pictures taken. Makes it seem so real. That one is well after you well had little Patrick jr jr. You still hadn't woken up so the photo was the best we could do at the time. "
"Patrick Jr. Jr." I asked looking at my dad funny.
"Well he's the third in the line of the Kane family. You had said before the accident if you ever had a boy you guys would follow tradition so we agreed when Patrick had to decide on the name after he was born."
"I see. The last one?" I said pointing to the last picture.
"Well that was Isabelle, unfortunately she passed away from cancer just a month after that photo right there. You and Pat loved her, and she loved you guys back. Great girl." Dad said nodding.
Alright I thought trying to process everything, this was going to be an adventure.
"We'll let Pat go over the rest with you later, the more recent ones." Mom said
"Alright thanks." Let the adventure begin.
**
Practice was hard. I was great at hockey no doubt about it, but the hard part was seeing the stares and the subtle looks my way as everyone I knew talked about me. I felt stupid, not knowing the simplest things, not even a name.
"Hey I'm Corey." The goalie said making his way over.
"Rachel. Yes I know you know but, never mind sorry. What's up?"
"I need you to help warm me up like you used to." He exclaimed.
"Alright I guess, but you're going to have to remind me of what I used to do."
"That like side to side backhander top shelf friggin move. Now even your husband uses it, I still need help though. Then you'd just take shots, or pretend you were taking shootout shots or penally shots." He said shrugging.
"I think I can do that."
"Good. I bet you can't score on me like you used to."
"You're on!" I said laughing. I might not know who he is exactly but even three years ago I was not one to shy away from a competition. I wondered if I had perfected that move, I had still been doing it back Varsity Ottawa, but it hadn't been perfect. I guess we'll see I thought to myself setting up the pucks, and then heading in for a shot. My hands seemed to know the shot better than I remembered, but it wasn't perfect. It did the trick however as the puck went top shelf.
"Damn." He muttered. "Even better than Pat."
"It's not right yet though. It's missing something."
"You and Pat worked on it together before last season, and added a couple extra moves. The two of you were unstoppable in shootouts." Pat came over and Corey had him demonstrate the improved move. Definitely something I could do, just need some practice I thought to myself as I lined myself up again for another shot after Pat went back to the drills. I replayed the moves over and over in my head, memorizing every movement of the stick, every fake, every deke until I had it down in my head of what I needed to do.
"Ready." I said nodding to the goalie as I started my ascent towards the goal. I added the extra couple moves to the shot and it worked just like the first time.
"How the hell do you guys do that. Obviously I've practiced it so many times that I can stop it a lot of times, but it's just so hard to pick up on the shot with so much going on in front of you. "
"Alright I'll change up my shots and then through that one in there every so often and see how you do. Bet your glad Pat plays on your team."
"Damn straight! He's got some wicked moves. Yours is one of them but he's lethal with the puck." Corey said shaking his head. "You, him, Jonny and Sharpie kill the goalies in shootouts."
"Right. The captain is Jon. Pat is my husband and Sharpie, he's the one I was talking to earlier right?"
"Yup." He said smiling. "The best friend, the husband, and well…the other Patrick." Corey said laughing.
"Right. Thanks for showing me my move again." I said smiling as we skated over to the beginning stages of what I could tell was a scrimmage.
**
Now here I was, decked out in Hawks clothes at a hockey game. My brain kept telling me that I had never been before, but I knew I had been many times, though from what Pat had said this would be my first time back here since June of last year so almost 8 months. And it had been longer apparently since I had been a fan.
"How's everything going? That mind of yours processing everything?" Abby brought me out of my thoughts.
"Huh, yah. I just feel like I'm letting everyone down, Patrick especially."
"Sweetie why would you ever think that?"
"I had to ask our kids names, where the bedrooms were, what his number was. I mean I didn't feel comfortable enough to even sleep with him so he slept on the couch. I have no idea what we've done together. I mean I see all the pictures but I just have no clue. Not to mention I broke the poor guy's heart asking where my ex boyfriend Mike was, and then flat out asking who Pat was. You should have seen the sadness on his face. Abby he doesn't deserve this, none of you do."
"Girl you are so wrong." She said shaking her head smiling. "This is the happiest I've seen Pat since the accident. He doesn't mind having to show you all the little things again, as long as it means you are back. Sure you losing your recent memory sucks, but it will come back at some point, and even if it doesn't Pat will make you fall in love with him again, believe me it will happen you will crack at some point." She said chuckling. "He's not upset that you need some time re adjusting, he'd take this you over the one in a coma any day. He knows the process won't be fast, and that all this is weird for you. Just talk to him if things get too crazy, or you have questions he will make time for them."
"Ughh I just feel like I can't be what everyone want's me to be. I'm not the same right now, and I've been put into a life that I can't even see being mine. I said I would never have kids till I was atleast 25. I planned on marrying Mike, and I know I loved Patrick it's so obvious in the pictures but it just feels like I'm never going to be the same, never going to be that girl he fell in love with."
"Rachel."
"I don't even know you for goodness sakes. And apparently you were one of my best friends. I can see why though." I said laughing.
"See, we can start over. No one's giving up on you over a small little bump in the road. You were friends with all these people for a reason, so just find that reason and start again. As for Pat, don't give up on anything. Give it a chance. Find the reason's you fell for him, and go through the ride again. Hell you guys met in just a few days, maybe if you relive some of the past it will get you headed on the right track."
"Yah, I guess. I'm not giving up, I mean I could never do that. I said till death do us part for a reason." I said smiling.
"Much better." Abby said laughing. "We've got to go though, can't miss your first game back." Abby said clapping.
"Yes, we are going to become great friends. Sorry if I've got to start from scratch."
"Don't sweat it hon. It's just life. That son of a ---" She said laughing and shaking her head. "Looks like he beat me to the whole redo the whole thing scenario." She said shaking her head, laughing and waving at someone.
"Ummmm." I said looking confused.
"Right well, little Patrick romantic as he is. Anyways you guys met the night your ex cheated on you, turns out he slept with Pat's girlfriend and the two of you found each other. Over the next month you guys had gotten really close, and everyone saw your relationship brewing except the two of you. So I'm not too sure on all the details but what you had told me was you wanted a seat away from Mike as you both had seats for this game. You refused to wear a Kane jersey unless he signed it. Threatened to wear a Toews jersey, Jonny's jersey. In the book of jersey fouls that's definitely up there, almost as bad as my Patrick's mom showing up with your husband's jersey. Back to you, he signed the jersey and well got you what I'm guessing is the exact same ticket for the seat we're supposed to have now. The first time it happened it was a surprise but this time he totally set it up. So it turns out you had been sitting beside his family the entire time without either of you knowing that you knew Patrick. At that point you guys weren't anything more, but you had stayed at his place to make sure Mike didn't come back for you. So…well may I present Donna, Patrick, Erica, Jessica, and Jackie."
"Holy Shit." I said eyes widening. "Patrick as in the first of three? Not my son Patrick JR JR?"
"Ah ha no. The first one, but don't worry they love you like a daughter. Nothing to be worried about, plus I'm there this time. Don't be mad at him if you feel like he's springing it on you. He must have done some research on regaining memory or something. "
"Right let's go. They've seen me now." I said fixing my hat atop my freshly curled hair, instantly happy I had made an effort to look nice. I kept my head down as I nonchalantly excused myself sitting beside Erica I think letting Abby slide past me. I think she's pregnant, I don't know though.
"Sort of feels like last time huh? I guess we'll have to help you relive it." Erica said beside me.
"Welcome back sweetie. Pat and I were skyping about you the day you got up. We're all glad you're finally out of that hospital even if its on these terms." Pat's mom said smiling.
"Thanks." I said smiling a genuine smile. "Sorry about the whole situation. It might take me a while to find out who's who, but thank you for understanding."
"I apologize for my son. He set this up before telling us about the memory thing, or the fact you'd be beside us."
"It's fine. I feel bad not being able to act as if I know you guys, or what we last talked about, but if he thinks it will help speed the process then I'm not mad. Plus I found out two days ago that you are well my family, so as my old and new self I am going to make the effort to get to know you again."
"My brother's not scaring you away is he?" Erica asked.
"No." I said shaking my head smiling softly. "He's taking it really well. Not getting on my case because I'm not the same at the moment. He seems happy to show me everything again, and isn't pressuring or getting mad at me. I think I'll be the one that scares him away first to be honest."
"It's good to hear we raised him well." Pat Sr. said.
"Believe me you won't scare him away." Donna said. "Just be open to him, and tell him when not to push, and when you need some encouragement and see where it goes from there. Believe me coming from the mother of a son who used to be well engrossed in women, and said he was never ever getting married atleast not for a long time, he is not going to run just because you can't remember."
"I'm not running either. I just hope he doesn't expect everything to go back to the way they used to be right away as I have no clue what they used to be like. I don't know anything." I sighed.
"Well we do, and you are our daughter, and their sisters, and we will love you the entire way. Just like Patrick will." Donna said smiling.
"How are you adjusting to the kid situation?" Jessica? yes Jessica asked.
"Uhmmm alright I guess. Bella was hanging off me today, but I don't think Patrick jr. jr. likes me."
"Nice." Pat Sr. said laughing.
"I think he became attached to your son, and well this Becca person over the past month in my absence."
"Yes Becca, lovely girl. Great with kids too, but don't worry a child never forgets it's mother. Obviously Bella is proof of that." Donna said chuckling.
"Yes." I agreed as I heard a cheer go up. "Can you recognize me?" I asked Erica as we stood up and clapped as the guys skated on the ice.
"Not too bad. Sitting beside us might give it away but appearance wise the hat helps. "
"Right. The Kane family, a mrs. Abby Sharp, and me people are going to put it together and when they do I honestly have nothing to tell them. Atleast my old jersey isn't signed. The whole choosing this one to not draw attention is going to back fire I can just feel it."
"Shoulda worn your Toews one."
"Patrick did not give me that option." I said chuckling.
"He wouldn't." Erica said laughing. "That's him there over talking to Jon by the bench. He's the small one, #88 and obviously Jon's the captain #19."
"Yah, I felt stupid having to ask his number on the ride her, but judging from the jerseys I've seen so far I could have figured it out on my own."
"You think?" Erica said laughing. "Oh yeah and the girls behind us are major puck sluts, and well they obviously don't know that we are sitting below them, so just ignore the blows they might drop during the game." She whispered.
"Uhh can guess what that means?"
"If you guessed stuck up, bitchy girls just interested in a little bit of fame, money or the fact they can say they've slept with an NHL player then ya." She whispered back and Abby and I chuckled.
"Lesson number one complete. Stay away from the puck sluts." I said quietly getting a chuckle from the Kane sisters and Abby.
Not even halfway through the scoreless first period, I could see what they meant by puck sluts.
"Oh my God they are like so sexy in their uniforms. Who could you get tonight?"
"I'd have to choose, as well I mean who would decline this?"
"I'd have to pick Jon or Patrick, they are too fine."
"Jon's got a fiancé though, boo."
"Fiancé not wife." The one said cockily. We were all shaking our heads as we focused on the game and listened into the conversation as well.
"I heard Kane's wife isn't going to wake up from her coma. Maybe he'd need some consoling?" The one girl said giggling.
I scoffed, and I saw Pat's sisters trying to suppress their laughter.
"Where'd you hear that?" Erica stated not once taking her focus off the game.
"A friend why? You think you'd get with him over me? Good luck." She said with attitude.
"Right Pat? Uh no." Erica said laughing. "Plus he's got a wife leave it alone."
"Too good for him huh? Apparently not for much longer."
"My GOD would you have a heart, and please just shut up. We are trying to watch the game." Jackie said.
"Yah, I think Kane. Maybe he'll be at the bars later." Erica shook her head rolling her eyes.
"Not happening. He's got the kids tonight." Jessica said putting in her two cents. "Plus really he got over the whole fake stage at like 23."
"We'll see." She retorted just as Patrick chose this time to wave into the crowd near us as he set up for the face-off. That sent the girls off into a fit of giggles and the look he waved at me's.
"Excuse me but do you two ever stop talking?" Pat Sr. asked turning around. "I'm sure everyone is tired of hearing your pathetic attempts of ever getting with any of the guys. I would love to enjoy these seats with my family, that my son was generous to give us. SO if you'd humour me and maybe forget about the whole sleeping with hockey players especially the married ones for preferably the next two hours we would be unbelievably grateful." Everyone but the girls laughed, some obviously recognizing the man speaking. He turned back around shaking his head before returning to the game.
"Next time we are sitting in the box." Erica said to Abby and I.
"Ugh yes please. I'm sick of the whole fan experience already. I wish they'd just score already."
"It's not even the end of the first, tons of time." Abby said laughing.
"Tons." I said agreeing. Everyone was playing well, there had been many chances but they hadn't capitalized on any yet.
"Here's where you would normally text Pat good luck." Abby said.
"Right, phone. I have an iPhone how cool right." I said grabbing it out and thanking the heavens the code was something I had been using forever.
Me~~ Playing great out there. Family is nice ;) Got some puck sluts that think I'm not going to pull out of my coma and really want to console you tonight. Score us a goal! We'll be watching <3 ps. your sisters say hi
Pat~~ I missed this. Tell em they don't stand a chance and that my wife will be just fine. Hi sisters and parents ;) I'll score you some goals not to worry. Jon says hi, and now he says to put the phone away. Enjoy the game wifey ;) Love ya <3 #futurehattrick
"Well Pat says hi." I said laughing and addressing the fam. "He's gonna score us some goals, and he want's the girls to know his wife will be fine but thanks for the support and for thinking about her."
"Bitch." One of them muttered under their breath. "Who does she think she is?"
"Your worst obstacle." Erica muttered under her breath as the guys skated back on the ice. Pat, Jon and the other Patrick were talking on the bench, and it was obvious he was trying to point out where we were. "Eh is that the father of your children waving at you." I said nudging Abby.
"Hey you're right." She said laughing. "This one better be a boy, the two girls is enough girl to last us forever." She chuckled.
"I knew it." I exclaimed. "I wasn't sure though I've been out of commission for a while."
"Yah I found out like right after that night like just a couple days. I told you in the room but you probably didn't hear anything."
"So exciting! Kids! I love em, now I just have to get the little one to like me again." I chuckled.
"Taking after his daddy eh?" Donna said laughing.
"He's muttered that a few times so yeah I think so. I hope he does take after him, except he's going to have an impeccable taste in women."
"Abby we setting our kids up when the get older?"
"I'll have to ask the hubby. I don't know, maybe Amanda and Jonny will have a kid soon and your boy can marry their girl and be best friends just like you guys!"
"Maybe." I laughed, before cheering as Pat scored his first goal of the night, the only goal of the game at this point. We all high fived before settling back down in our seats. "One of at least three."
"Tell him to stop being greedy and pass." Abby joked.
"Sorry, no phones allowed on the ice. You think a second intermission surprise visit might motivate him more?"
"Yeah, it's you Jonny won't mind." Abby said nodding. "Plus 1-1 isn't going to cut it." She said as we watched Carolina score. We got up at the next whistle and made our way to the locker room without a problem.
"Boys, boys, boys. Not impressing the new memoryless me." I exclaimed as I saw them starting to file in. They smiled shaking their heads, each giving a fist bump before heading into the room.
"Girls." Jon said laughing and ruffling our hair before taking shelter in the room.
"I thought you said three goals." Abby and I smirked as Pat came down the tunnel.
"Still have twenty minutes left. Just wait." He said winking before following Jon in.
"What do ya think so far?" Q asked just outside the locker room door.
"You guys need to score a few more goals, this is the first NHL game my brain remembers! A win is crucial." I said laughing.
"Would be nice. Pat talk to you about taking you off IR?"
"Yeah. Give me a few weeks to get adjusted and back in shape then go for it. If it gets too crazy I'll let you know."
"Perfect, Stan will be glad to hear that. Want me to say anything to the guys?"
"Nah, just that they have to win due to the fact this is the NHL game I will remember at least for now as my first."
"Will do, Enjoy the game." He said heading into the room. Pat scored again at the beginning of the period giving the Hawks a 2-1 lead. That's the way it went for most go the third. Then the net was empty and Jon and Pat had a two on one with 20 seconds left. Pat to Jon, back to Pat and in the net with 7 seconds to spare.
"Show off." Abby joked.
"Maybe just a little." I said laughing, the first genuine laugh in what seemed like forever. It wasn't short lived either as I heard a guy addressing the two girls.
"You have no idea who that guy is do you?" He asked shaking his head.
"Uhh no why?"

"Maybe think about who's in front of you before talking. Notice any pattern in the jerseys? Anything at all?" Erica turned to wave, rolling her eyes.
"And you're number one star with the Hawk's three goals of the night Patrick Kane." They announced. I knew a hat trick was no easy feat so even if I couldn't remember I found myself cheering along with the crowd.
"Patrick, you played great out there."

"Thanks. I felt good out there tonight."

"Any reason for that?"

"Ahh plenty. Plus you've got to impress your family when they make the trip down to watch the game." He said winking into the camera.
"Yes, there they are." The reporter said as the camera panned to the family beside me as they waved on the Jumbotron. "Always great to see the support of families first hand.

"They're the reason we are playing here, the way we do." Pat said chuckling. "I just hope to carry that on."

"Third period you were untouchable, what changed?"

"Let's just say I owed someone a couple goals and a win. Can't start going back on promises now can we?" He said smirking, causing those still here to laugh us included.
"Alright, we'll leave it at that for tonight. Great game, great goals and good luck for the rest of the season. Patrick Kane everyone." The reporter announced as Patrick did a little wave before heading back down the tunnel. The girls seemed a lot quieter now. I was surprised they hadn't ran in embarrassment.
"So are you guys staying at the house tonight or a hotel?" I asked.
"Pat booked us a couple rooms, we didn't want to scare you off. We weren't thinking we were going to see you until Pat asked, but I'm glad you came tonight." Donna said.
"You didn't have to really! We have tons of room."
"It's okay. To be honest even if your memory was normal we would have stayed at a hotel.
"Still." I huffed. "You're here to see your son."
"And you. Don't worry we are literally floors down from you guys." Donna chuckled.
"We should probably head down soon." Abby said laughing.
"Sounds good with me."
The girls were still giving us glares that could kill.
"You wouldn't get within a foot of my brother." Erica said returning the icy glare.
"As if you could stop us."
"No but she can." Erica said nodding towards Abby and I.
"Riiiight." They scoffed.This is getting old I thought shaking my head.
"Hello girls, I couldn't help but hear your conversation earlier." I said sticking our my hand which was ignored.
"Who are you?"
"Right I guess I should introduce myself. I'm the reason your precious Patrick played a great game today. I'm Rachel, his well apparently not going to make it wife. Sorry if he doesn't need consoling." I said catching up with Pat's family, and Abby.
"Well two people know about me being awake."
"Serves em right." Abby said high fiving me.
"Was it always that bad?"
"Before the accident yes, every girl 19+ hated you, except the ones that respected you for your talent, and the fact that they were happy for the two of you. After the accident people seemed genuinely concerned and worried, they posted messages of prayers, and get well soons " Donna said.
"Everyone important loved you though." Erica said laughing.
"That's all that matter's right?" I said laughing. Suddenly realizing it didn't matter if I remembered my old life. Everyone accepted me back into their lives as if nothing had happened, and acted normal around me. I could tell already I had married a great guy, who came from a great family. One that could make me laugh over nothing. That was the moment I realized that I had to stop being scared, and to just let things happen the way they were supposed to. I knew I had nothing, absolutely nothing to be afraid of, it was time to open up and let people back in.
"We're going to hang out here, you two go find your guys." Donna said motioning for me and Abby to continue into the locker room without them.
"Your number one fans are coming in, everyone better be decent!" Abby yelled into the locker room, getting a laugh out of everyone as the reporters were still in the room. "Oooops. Sorry." She said giggling as we headed over to the corner to wait for the reporters to leave.
"Great entrance. Did you enjoy the game?" Pat said giving me a quick hug.
"Yeah, it was exciting. Nice hatty."
"Then you know it was for you." He said grinning.
"Figured, Don't go back on promises eh?" I joked. "Don't you need to do more interviews, other people are still doing them and you were the number one star and all." I asked.
"Yeah I will, they'll notice soon enough I've gotten away, but until then I'm going to hang with my beautiful fans." He said smirking.
"Hey Abbs." Sharpie said giving his wife a kiss. "Rach." He said nodding.
"I know this is late and all, but congrats I hear you guys are hoping for a boy. " I said giving him a hug.
"A few month's yes, but your excuse is as good as any. Thank you. I know you don't remember but our oldest Maddy adores you and has been asking about Aunty Rach for months now. When your up to it I know she'd love to see you again. Patrick said smiling.
"I think it could definitely be arranged." I smiled back. Pat had been pulled away for more interviews, so I went and sat beside Jon in the stall that I learned would have been mine usually.
"Hey mind if I grab some of my stuff." A young guy came up breaking my thought process.
"Huh? Oh right sorry." I said sliding closer to Jon. "I'm Rachel by the way. "
"Yeah, I figured. I'm Tuevo but you can just call me T or something." He chuckled shyly.
"You played good tonight." I said smiling, thankful Abby had educated me on the players and their numbers before the game had started.
"Thanks. You're a great player too, hope to have the chance to play with you someday."
"Me? Nahhh, I'm average. Surprised I even made this team." I said shrugging.
"Uhhhh…right the whole no memory thing. You should probably know you got the award for being the best rookie in the league last year. Hell everyone, even I want to do what you did last year."
"I'm going to say thank you, though my brain doesn't remember what for. You are definitely good, you've got a chance I'd say though I don't know who your competition is, now let me give you your stall back." I said smiling softly.
"It was great finally meeting you." He said sitting down in the spot I had just vacated.
"You too." I said scanning the room for a familiar face seeing the three Kane sisters and walking over to them.
"How long does this usually take?" I said joining their huddle.
"Tonight probably forty minutes to an hour."
"Right. Atleast another thirty minutes then."
"Probably, yah."
"So thirty minutes more of not being recognized. Think it's possible? Where'd your parents go?"
"No it's impossible, do you see all the reporters hounding around this place? Someone will realize after a while you're new. Oh and they wen't to the room to cook up some food for Pat. Mom figured she'd give you the night off." Erica said winking.
"Okay, #1 on my learn't list; Pat likes to eat, and he can do it whenever." I said laughing.
"#2 He loves ya, and the little kiddos." Jackie said smiling.
"Yes, I'm realizing that quite quickly."
"Soon you won't need a list, it'll just come naturally."
"I hope!" I exclaimed. "Really? I was doing so good! You guys are like reporter magnets… go away!" I joked.
"Too late now." Erica chuckled. "Welcome back to the world officially."
Me~~PATRICK! Save me!
"So Kane sister's what did you think of your brother's performance tonight?"
"Haha it was great, just what we expected. It was great seeing Pat playing to his whole potential, and we hope to see that for the rest of the season.
"You are a close family? Right?"

"The closest. Our brother is always proud of us just like we are of him. He's a great brother, and he's given us the cutest little nieces and nephews." Erica said laughing.
"I see you've brought a friend today."

"Family actually. Finally nice to get to see her at one."
"Not a hockey fan huh?"

"Actually--"
"Hey girls." I heard Pat come up behind us. "Hi camera." He said winking. "What's this about not liking hockey?"
"Well we were just interested in why it was such a struggle to get your family member here out to a game."

"Actually she's just a Sens fan." Patrick joked.
"What I am!" I said laughing,
"Were." Patrick glared playfully.
"Fine." I huffed.
"Haha alright then a live conversion of a Sens fan to a Hawks fan. Love it. Now that you're a Hawks fan you don't have to hide your face around here anymore." He joked.

"Oh I'm still a diehard Sens fan. Pat here is going to have to try harder than that." I said laughing at the boy who was now pouting.
"Really? Making me grovel on TV? So not cool." He chuckled.
"Sorry, you don't have to. I know I'm not as cool as you Mr. Number 1 star with 3 goals to help the Blackhawks defeat the Carolina Hurricanes."
"Ahhhh snap." Jackie said laughing.
"Patrick you are rubbing off on her!" Erica said laughing.
"And it backfired." Jessica laughed as well.
"Like we said before the Kane family is definitely close. Speaking of family, how's yours treating you Patrick?"

"Oh we are definitely close. 4 sisters against one Patrick so much fun." Erica said laughing.
"Sorry about her. Everything is good on my front. Bella's learning her mommies and daddies. Little Patrick is a troublemaker just like yours truly. And let's just say--"
"The sisterhood is intact again!" Erica exclaimed. "God Pat just spit it out." She punched him playfully.
"Right so, yah lets just say everything is looking up. No need to stay positive anymore." Pat said grinning. "Oh and she sure as hell isn't a Sens fan." Pat said laughing and shaking his head before going to stand beside Jon.
"Patrick!" I exclaimed glaring. Him and Jon chuckled about something before he came back arm around my shoulder.
"Sorry where were we? Important things I had to discuss with Captain Toes."
"So let me get this straight after 5 months your wife has woken up from her coma?"

"Correct. But we've had a slight memory malfunction were hoping to clear up soon, but until then, hey I still have my Wife." He exclaimed like a little kid.
"So your A game not just a coincidence tonight then?"

"Like I said, I don't go back on promises. And hey like my sisters said, it sure has been a struggle getting her to go to one of my games." He said winking.
"I'm sorry for being in a coma for 5 months. You know I would have been here otherwise." I said shaking my head.
"Take of the hat for goodness sake." Erica said laughing. "You look creepy."
"The moment of truth folks."

I took off the hat, why not. We were the only ones left in the room, everyone else was long gone. Pat whispered something to the reporter who nodded.
"And this concludes our time. Rachel nice to see you standing on your own two feet again. Look forward to tomorrow night. Thank you all for your time."

"Tomorrow night?"
"Right. They aren't going to air the interview but they've got the exclusive. Tomorrow night you're dropping the ceremonial puck drop, and they will play this before you come out. Not my idea talk to Stan!"
"Ehh, ok. Sounds fun." I said shrugging.
"It is really nice to see you again Mrs. Kane. Hope to see you on the ice again soon. Patrick, girls." He said waving and leaving the room.
"Your mom made you food by the way." I hinted at speeding up our getting home process. 15 minutes later we were in his parent's hotel room, and Patrick was eating some of the food his mom had made for him. I left him to his family and went to our place to relieve Becca.
"Rachel!" She exclaimed giving me a hug.
"And you must be Becca. Nice to meet you again." I said smiling.
"Just out of a coma and you look as stunning as ever. Wow." She gushed.
"Yes, but one of those side effects is that I'm exhausted. Maybe we could get coffee sometime and you can fill me in on everything I'm forgetting, atleast the recent stuff. "
"Sounds good. My number should still be in your phone so give me a call whenever."
"Thanks again." I said waving as she headed down to the elevator.
The kids were sleeping, thank goodness. I was not lying when I said I was exhausted. I decided to change into sweats and a shirt that was probably Pat's but at that moment I was too tired to care. I caught myself staring at myself in the mirror as I was changing. It looked as though a battle had taken place and my body had been the battle ground. I was scared of my own body, it just didn't look the same. Covering it wouldn't be a problem, but there would be no bikinis this summer I could tell you that.
"Rach you in here?" Pat asked knocking.
"Yah, but don't come in."
"Are you crying?" He asked from the other side of the door.
"Maybe. It's not you I promise."
"If it's not me then I'm coming in."
"Let me put a shirt on first."
"Fine." He huffed. "Good?"
"Yeah."
"What's up?" He said jumping onto the bed and wrapping his arms around me."
"Just adjusting to everything. It's tough."
"Well everyone said how nice it was to see you again today. I think you've been doing great with people. My family said you seemed like the old you and everything, just missing some details."
"Oh this is just me getting upset over something stupid, something that only girls would do. "
"I can be a girl for ya. "
"No." I said shaking my head. "It's too much."
"Rachel." He said using his stern voice.
"Fine. Take off my shirt. "
"Wha-at?" He said blushing slightly causing me to laugh,
"You perv. You wanted to see what I'm upset about and well know I'm not upset just adjusting." I said putting my hands up as the shirt slid up my body.
"Can I go punch the guy in the face now. Seriously if he hadn't been in a hospital bed." Pat said obviously angry.
"No." I growled.
"But--" He said moving his hand along the biggest of the scars.
"No. Accidents happen. No one died from it, now I'm moving on and you are too." I glared.
"I --I just hate myself for letting this happen to you. I remember last year right at the start of the season I hated seeing you with bruises. I felt helpless. I couldn't protect you."
"Patrick. There is nothing you could have done. Patrick look at me. No my eyes." I said sternly. "Good, now listen to me." I said holding onto his arms. "I am here. I'm not gone from this world. The doctors claimed miracle, but I think it was all for that broken hearted boy by my side the whole way through, the one filled with so much love that it would have been impossible to leave him. I know I'm not the same person I was before the accident, but I will be someday. It's been days and even though we've had to start back from nothing, I know we will be just fine. I don't want you going out and getting angry over something we can't control. Sure I'm scarred probably for life, but I think of them as battle wounds, the proof that I fought hard to remain here for you. I've seen pictures Pat, I shouldn't have made it out of there like I did. To even have the chance to skate properly again is a miracle in itself. Now I may not remember, but a heart does not forget loving someone. I know I loved you Pat, I really do and I' making sure my brain remembers it too. I don't want you to worry, about anything. I will be fine I promise." I said sincerely looking into his eyes filled with sadness and love.
"Okay." He said, sadness lacing his voice.
"Okay?" I said. He nodded slowly and I gave him a hug.
"I don't want to leave." He mumbled.
"Then don't." I said shrugging. "But you are turning off the lights, and if I sense any funny business your ass will be on the floor so quickly you won't know what hit you. I'll let ya know, it will probably be my foot, fist if you're lucky." I said chuckling.
"Fine but you're sleeping like that."
"Tsk, tsk. I thought your mother would have taught you to treat a lady right. Lesson number one no telling them what they have to wear." I said shaking my head in disappointment.
"Alright then you don't have to, but I know you will for me." He said grinning.
"Well I'm not changing you goof. Now got to sleep I'm tired." I said flopping my head down on the pillow.
"Night." Pat said sliding in leaving as much space as possible between us.
"You don't have to be afraid of hurting me you know." I whispered. "Night Patrick."
I smiled as he shifted slightly into the middle. Turning towards me. "Rach."
"Yeah."
"I love you."
"I know." I said smiling as we both closed our eyes falling into a much needed sleep.
Morning came quickly. I woke in a warm embrace, one I wasn't fighting as there wasn't a chance for escape. I woke up again to Pat watching me. Coma me was a little freaked, as she barely knew the guy watching her. But the new me, the one fighting for the old me said to give it a chance.
"Hey." He said softly.
"Hey." I smiled back. "Hey Patrick can you do me a favour?"
"Yah."
"Can you tell me a story? Can you tell me our story?"
…
…

Notes