Citius, Altius, Fortius

Aubrey wakes up just as we’re landing in Pittsburgh. Just in time for us to get out and make our way to where Russ is waiting for us.

My 17 year old brother scoops me into a hug and it’s a shock to my system. It’s only been a couple months, but he’s changed so much. His body has finally started to really fill in, and his arms almost crush me.

“Football is treating you well, I see.” I laugh, getting into his passenger seat.
“Yeah, I guess.” He says smiling. “I’ve put on about fifteen pounds of muscle since the end of last season.”
“Any new schools looking at you?” I ask, aware of his desire to play in college.
He smirks, and I know he’s got something good to tell me.
“Uh... Well. Pitt said if I can put on another five to ten pounds before February they’ll consider offering a spot. No scholarship the first year. But they’d reconsider the following years, depending on my performance. And they don’t have any other quarterbacks in next year’s freshman class.”
“Russy that’s great!” I say, smiling.
“Yeah, I guess. I was hoping for a full offer though, you know?”

I know immediately what Russ is worried about. Why he’s a little upset.

Just look at our family. Tom and Dan are both successful engineers and were star lacrosse players in college, Josie owns her own restaurant and was an NCAA champion gymnast, I’m an Olympic medalist and three time NCAA National Champion, and Steven is a stand-out star in NCAA lacrosse.

Five very successful older siblings in both their careers and in the NCAA. He’s living in our shadows.

“Russ, you’re an incredible athlete. And an even more incredible human being. Whatever school you end up going to will be lucky to have you. Both on their football team and as a student.”

Russ nods and cracks a small smile. It’s good to see him somewhat happy, regardless of how he’s feeling on the inside.

“You’re coming to my game tomorrow afternoon, right?” He asks.
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” I promise.
“I’m really close to the school’s record for passing yards.”
“How close?”
“A little over a hundred.”
“Wow.” I’m baffled by his admission. I knew my youngest brother was good. Good enough to be having programs like Pitt scouting him. But I had no idea he was close to breaking a school record.

We’re quiet for a moment, Russ focusing on the road in front of us and me thinking about how proud I am of my brothers. I almost forget Aubrey’s in the car with us. Until she speaks up.

“So.... Brian wants me to meet his girlfriend tonight.” She says, talking about her younger brother. “He says she’s only in town until tomorrow morning, and then she’s going to Cincinnati to visit her family.”
“She’s cool.” Russ says, nodding his head.
“I’ll be the judge of that.” Aubrey says quickly. “But the problem is we’ve got Pens tickets for tonight.”

I scrunch up my face, seeing her dilemma.

“Will you be upset if I bailed on you?” She asks me.
“Of course not.” I respond, knowing how important it is for her to meet Brian’s new girlfriend. Aubrey is almost as protective as I am when it comes to her brothers.
“You sure?”
“Absolutely. Hey Russy, wanna go to the Penguins game with me tonight?” I ask my little brother.
“Will I get to meet them?” He asks.
“Of course. Paul got me tickets in the family suite. And Beau told me they’re taking me to Diesel’s after.”
“Hell yeah!” Russ laughs.
“You know if you go you’re not invited to Diesel’s, right?” I check.
“What? Why not?”
“You’re only seventeen!”
“But Tor-”
“No!”
“Tori, I won’t drink or anything. I’ve got a game tomorrow anyway. Just let me go out with you!”
“Absolutely not, Russ. You’ll go home after the game and I’ll get one of the guys to drive me home when we’re done.”
He sighs, clearly unhappy with my decision.
“Fine. But you’re buying me a new hat. My old one is ripped.”

Later that evening, after no where near enough time spent at my parents’ house, Russ and I hop into his car and head over to the game. The security guard at the VIP parking section recognizes me and lets me in.

Fortunately, it’s been long enough since the Olympics that not many people recognize me. Though I do get a couple lingering stares from people who know they know me from somewhere.

“Hi, I’m picking tickets up under Victoria McKinley.” I say to the woman at the box office.

She riffles through the envelopes before she pulls one out with my name on it.

“Mr. Martin and Mr. Bennett also asked me to give you these.” She says, reaching under the desk and pulling out a bag and handing it to me.

Inside the bag are two long sleeved shirts, one black and one white. They both have the Penguins logo on them. They’re clearly meant as gifts from Paul and Beau for Aubrey and me. I laugh, looking at my over-sized brother.

“I guess this doesn’t count as getting you something, huh?” I ask.
“They’re sick shirts. But neither of them will fit me. So no.” He responds, admiring the white one.

I pull the black one over my head and it fits perfectly. The white one will definitely be Aubrey’s.

“Let’s go.” I say, pulling my brother towards the entrance.

We make a quick stop in the team store before we head up to the suite and, as promised, I buy Russ a new hat. I actually really like the one he picks out. It’s all gray with a navy blue brim. The Penguins logo on the front is faded and slightly worn out. It looks classy, but not typical at the same time.

I’m slightly nervous as we make our way up to the family suite. I realize how different this is compared to Chicago. There’s no one here to introduce me to everyone else. I’m basically walking in blind. And, as much as I love him, Russ isn’t Aubrey. He’s not going to jump right into conversation with anyone and take the pressure off of me. Plus.... this is the team I’ve grown up cheering for. This isn’t just the Blackhawks. This is the Penguins.

I open the door slowly and find, to my relief, that there are very few women already here. A couple of them eye me suspiciously and I stand in the doorway for a second, feeling awkward and out of place.

That is, until a perky brunette carrying a small little girl in her arms comes up to me. I recognize her immediately from charity events as Veronique Fleury.

“Hello!” She says with her French accent. “You must be Victoria. I’m Veronique Fleury, but you can call me Vero. Paul asked me to look out for you and show you around.”
“Hi. You can call me Tori.” I say, awkwardly.
“I thought he said there would be another woman with you?” She asks, eyeing Russ.
“My cousin Aubrey was supposed to be with me, but something came up. This is my baby brother, Russ.”
She smiles and pulls Russ and me in to the suite, showing us around.

Vero is an absolute delight, and I’m thrilled that Paul asked her to help me out. She introduces her baby, Estelle, and I instantly feel at home with the little girl. Adults I can handle, but kids are who I’m best with.

Vero brings Russ and me over to where she’s sitting and introduces us to a litany of women who’s names I really wish I could remember. I know Catherine Letang and Carol-Lynne Dupis are two of them, and they seem the most friendly. They also have their children with them, but they’re older and playing with each other.

I ask Vero to take a picture of me with my baby brother with the ice in the background. She agrees, and I post it on twitter with just Russ’s handle and a penguin emoji. It’s a really great picture, so I also save it as my background.

The first period starts, and I immediately get into it just like any other Penguins game I’ve ever watched. I make a conscious effort not to get too crazy, until I hear Vero yelling at Crosby to just “do something, gosh darn it!” Like he heard her, he receives a gorgeous pass and rips it right past the goalie’s left shoulder and into the net. I’m on my feet cheering along with everyone else in an instant, getting hugs from the women around me. Suddenly I’m feeling a lot less nervous. This doesn’t seem like that big of a deal anymore. This is just hockey.

The first intermission comes with no more scoring from either team, and I’m in the middle of talking to the women about how I met Brooks, Paul and Beau when my phone starts blaring Chelsea Dagger obnoxiously. I blush bright red and apologize, pulling it out of my pocket and looking at the screen. I can’t help but smile at the goofy picture of me, Jon and Pat at the top of the Sear’s Tower- sorry, Willis Tower- in Chicago.

“You seriously changed my ringtone, though?” I ask as soon as I answer.
“I figured Chelsea Dagger should be the soundtrack to your life now that we’ve successfully converted you to a Blackhawks fan.” Pat responds simply.

I laugh and get up from my seat, moving to a more private place to talk.

“Patty, I’ve told you before. Pittsburgh sports first, OSU second, and the Chicago Blackhawks third.”
“I don’t like that.”
“I don’t care. Now why are you calling me?” I laugh.
“Well Jonny and I were sitting here watching the game on TV and they showed you. And I saw your tweet. I just wanted to let you know that I like your shirt, but you look better in black and red rather than black and gold. Also, the analysts are wondering why you were in Chicago a couple days ago in my jersey and are now in Pittsburgh with their wives and girlfriends. Their guesses are hysterical.”

I notice everyone is starting to head back to their seats and move to return to mine as well.

“What do you want me to say, babe?” I ask with a chuckle. “I’m cheating on you with my one true love.”
“You wound me, McKinley.” He jokes.
“Don’t listen to him, Tori! He’s cheating on you with your cousin!” I hear Jon say in the background.
“Oh, believe me. I know that Mr. Toews.” I respond, sitting down between Russ and Vero. “And don’t think we won’t be having a lengthy discussion about it the next time we get on Skype.” I hear Pat groan and Jon laugh. “I gotta go, though. The second period is about to start.”

“Yeah yeah.” Pat says. “Love you.”
“Love you too, ya dork.”
“Don’t have too much fun in Pittsburgh.”
“As you wish.”

I hang up and tuck my phone back into my pocket before facing the people surrounding me. I notice a slight change in their demeanor, which surprises me. Vero looks slightly saddened, and the rest look confused.

“What’s up?” I ask.
“Nothing.” Vero says.
“How are Jon and Pat?” Russ asks.
“They’re good. Apparently they showed me on TV. They wanted to make sure my ‘loyalties are in the right place’ or whatever.” I answer with an eye roll and a smile.
“And are they?” Russ asks.
“Like I told Pat- Pittsburgh sports, then OSU, then the Chicago Blackhawks.”
“Mmmhm.” Russ teases me. “Even after your night in Captain Blackhawk’s bed?” He asks.
“What?” I ask, my head spinning around. “Who told you about that?”
“Aubrey.”

Suddenly I’m furious with my cousin. I told her it wasn’t like that. Yet she’s telling my brother about it? Who else is she saying this stuff to?

“It wasn’t like that.” I say shortly, my good mood gone.

Russ can tell something is off immediately, and backs off. Instead, he turns to Alex Letang, who has apparently taken an interest in him. I can feel the questioning stares of the women on my other side and feel my heart racing in my chest.

“Victoria, are you okay?” Carol-Lynn asks with a concerned look.
“Yeah. I’m fine.” I answer. “Might kill my cousin. But yeah.”

The women go back to their conversation and I try to follow along, the whole time thinking about how much they overheard. Based on our proximity, I can assume they saw the picture that came up on my phone when Pat called. And I can almost promise someone heard some of my conversation with Pat. They also all heard me tell him I love him. And then my stupid brother had to speak up about my stupid cousin’s big mouth.

They probably all think I’m some sort of slut.

“I’m not dating Jonathan Toews.” I blurt out when there’s a lull in the conversation. All eyes are suddenly on me, confused and curious. I sigh, knowing this is going to be a long explanation. “What Russ said. While it’s technically true, it’s not what you guys are probably thinking.” My eyes meet Vero’s and she gives me a look, encouraging me to go on. “After the game in Chicago, we all went out to some bar. We had a good time. And yeah, I went home with Jon. He’s a very attractive man and an incredibly sweet individual once you get to know him. But all Jon and I did was kiss. We made out for a little bit, but we both realized there was no spark. So we decided not to risk ruining our friendship and we didn’t push it any farther. By that time, it was really late and we were both too intoxicated to drive. Plus we both knew Pat and my cousin Aubrey had gone to his place together. So instead of going back to Pat’s, I stayed at Jon’s. We considered setting his guest bedroom up, but we were drunk and tired and lazy so I just crawled into bed with him. We cuddled and fell asleep and in the morning it was awkward when we realized we basically cock blocked each other with our drunken stupidity. But honestly, even though my cousin and Pat both refuse to listen, there’s nothing there. Jon and I are just friends.”

I breathe out, relieved to get that off my chest. I notice Vero looks a lot less sad, and the others seem like they understand.

“I just didn’t want you all to think I’m some sort of slut just looking to sleep with the guys. Because I’m not.”
“Honey, none of us thought you were.” Catherine says, calming my nerves.
“I was just upset because I thought you’d make a great addition to our little crew. But if you were dating Toews, you’d belong with them and not us.” Vero admits.
I laugh, relieved.
“Well, as much as I love Abby Sharp, I’m not a Blackhawks girlfriend. And I never will be.” I say.
“Toews is a hottie, though. So I wouldn’t have blamed you. It’s something about that brooding look he always has.” Vero adds with a wink, making us all laugh.

I feel a lot more relieved as the game starts back up again. Just like in Chicago, I feel like these are the type of women I could spend time with often. We go right back in to cheering for the guys, and I can breathe a lot easier than before.

During the second intermission our discussion is a lot more tolerable, and certainly makes me feel less nervous. I take Estelle from Vero so the brunette beauty can have a moment to herself. By the time she’s back from the bathroom, Estelle doesn’t want to leave my side. And I don’t want to let her go. The infant cries as soon as Vero tries to take her back, and settles when I snuggle her back into my own arms.

“How are you so good with her? She’s usually only okay with me and Marc.” Vero says, baffled by her daughter’s actions.
“I’ve had a lot of practice.” I explain. “I’ve got two younger brothers, six nieces and nephews, and twelve younger cousins. And when you’ve got a family as big as mine is, you get used to being a free babysitter at family functions. And a go-to babysitter at other times.”
“Well you’re more than welcome to babysit for us any time. And we’ll even pay you!”
“Any time I’m home.” I promise.
“Let me get your number. Maybe Marc and I will call you when you’re home for your winter break. We haven’t had a night alone together since we conned Geno into babysitting for us last spring.”

I give Vero my number, and notice Carol-Lynn and Catherine adding it to their phones as well. I tell them that they’re more than welcome to ask me to babysit also, and they both seem excited to have someone to watch their kids for a night.

The third period starts up again, and just two minutes in Beau scores off a gorgeous pass from Bortuzzo. I cheer a little extra hard, considering I’ve technically only met the kid once. And I think Vero notices.

“So apparently Beau has been telling everyone you’re friends.” Carol-Lynn says.
“We are. We met at the Team USA training camp. He’s such a doll.”
“And there’s nothing there?” Catherine asks suggestively.
“Oh gosh, no. Beau’s a great guy, but he’s... too much for me.” I laugh.
“And what about Paul?” Vero asks.
“Paul is the biggest sweetheart I’ve ever met. But also a no. Why?”
“We’re just trying to figure out who we can set you up with.” Carol-Lynn answers.
“You’re way too sweet for us to let you not set you up with one of the guys.” Catherine agrees.
“Oh.” I blush. “Well, I’m not actually looking for a relationship right now. I just recently got out of a pretty bad one.”
“Yeah. She’s not allowed to date athletes, either.” Russ adds. I didn’t even know he was paying attention to us anymore.
“Why not?” Vero asks, her eyebrows furrowing together.
“Because athletes get jealous of her successful career and try to destroy her because they’re too petty to realize she’s amazing and they’re lucky to have her.” He states simply before turning his back to us and re-focusing on the game.

I feel my face flush, and can’t seem to look up at the three women who’s stares I can feel burning into my skin.

“This sounds like a story for another day and another place.” Vero says quietly.
“Yeah.” I respond simply.
“We’ll get drinks next time you’re here.” Catherine suggests.
“Okay.”

About half way through the period, Phil Kessel knocks one past Fleury, putting the Leafs on the board. I’m torn between cheering for one of my new friends and being pissed he scored. It’s a weird feeling, one I can’t seem to understand.

“I don’t get it.” I say out loud once the game has resumed. “How can they all go from playing against each other to playing with each other? I mean, Phil and Paul got along really well at the Olympic camp. And James and Beau are friends too. Isn’t it hard playing against each other?”
“That’s the nature of the Olympics. Hockey and basketball are the only sports where that happens.” Vero says.
“It’s definitely weird.” Carol-Lynn admits. “I remember the first time Sid started talking about Toews and Bergeron like they were his buddies. Which of course they are. But not in our lives.”
“It’s the same as when a teammate gets traded or signs somewhere else. You root for them because you’re friends, but not when you’re playing against them.” Catherine adds.
“Unless it’s Max. I can’t root for him right now even when he’s not playing us.” Vero says, scrunching her nose, no doubt thinking about her long-time friend wearing an orange jersey.
“I could never imagine having to switch like that.” I say. “Good thing my sport is individualized.”

Fortunately the 2-1 score holds, and when the final buzzer goes off it’s the Penguins who are on top. The family suite is buzzing with smiles all around, and Russ and I follow Vero, Carol-Lynn and Catherine down to their waiting room.

It seems like a while before the first guys start trickling out. Marc and Kris are towards the middle of the pack, and their women introduce us as soon as they’re out. They remember me, which feels nice, and both Frenchmen kiss my cheeks after hugging me. Fortunately I can handle the attention, but I know now that it’s probably a good thing Aubrey isn’t here. She wouldn’t have been able to control her reactions.

We talk for a brief moment about last season when Aubrey and I came to the game. They ask about my current season and my plans for Rio 2016. It feels natural, talking to them. Like I’ve known them for a while. I’m pulled from our conversation, though, by two strong arms picking me up from behind.

“Tori!” My blonde Californian yells. “Did you see my goal?”
“Of course I did! Hi Beau!” I say, smiling at him when he puts me down.
“I had to impress you. Since I heard you were cheating on us in Chicago.”
I laugh.
“I’m sorry! Pat made me go.”
“He also made you into a Hawks fan, apparently. According to their twitter.” He says, pouting. “You were entirely too happy when you were there. I don’t want you to leave us for them.”
“I won’t leave you guys. The Penguins will forever be my favorite NHL team.”
“Promise?” I hear Paul ask from behind me.
“Paul!” I exclaim, pulling my friend into a hug.
“Well? Do you promise?” He asks.
“Of course.” I laugh.

I introduce Paul and Beau to Russ, who seems super excited to be here now. Beau’s roommate Rob joins us, as well as Carol-Lynn’s husband Pascal. James Neal also joins us. Or rather, he joins Paul who’s apparently his ride. Paul introduces the two of us. James is funny, and I instantly connect with him. He likes when I give Paul shit about the way his tie isn’t on right.

As usual (or so I’m told), Malkin and Crosby are the last two out of the dressing room. They join the large gathering right before the parents of the group decide it’s time to take their children home and get them to bed. But not before Vero takes it upon herself to re-introduce us.

Crosby, to my surprise, remembers me. I figured the face of the NHL would have forgotten about a local fan whom he met once. He shakes my hand with a smile, which I return politely. Malkin, on the other hand, doesn’t. Though I wasn’t actually expecting him to. Vero tells him my name and he, too, shakes my hand. Despite Vero’s full-name introduction, he tells me to call him Geno, and I tell him to call me Tori.

“So we’re going to Diesel’s, right?” Beau asks when the parents are gone.
“Hell yes!” Rob agrees.
“Tori, you still in?”
“As long as someone can give me a ride home. Or make sure I get into a cab.”
“Tori-” Russ starts.
“No, Russell.” I cut him off, giving him a look.
“I won’t drink! I swear. I’m not that stupid. I have a game tomorrow!”
“Russell, you’re only seventeen. You’re not going to a club with us.”

I realize just how much I sound like my mother and hear James snicker behind me. I send him a look, trying not to laugh.

“Fine. But you owe me.” My brother says, defeated.
“I bought you a new hat!”
“We made that agreement before I found out you got a new shirt. And Aubrey got a new shirt too and she didn’t even come.”
“You’re such a pain in the ass.” I declare.

“How about this.” Paul suggests, laughing. “She’ll come with us and you’ll go home. And in return, a couple of us will come to your game tomorrow with her.”
Russ eyes him suspiciously.
“I’m always down for some sports.” James chimes in. “What are we watching?”
“High school football.” I answer.
“I’m in!” James says, nudging Geno. “And so is the big man.”

Geno looks at James, confused. “Don’t know American football.” He says.
“We’ll teach you, G.” Paul says.
Geno thinks for a second.
“Only if Sid come too. He need to be social.”

The guys laugh, and I see Russ’s eyes go wide for a second. The thought of having the Penguins show up at his game is definitely appealing to him. But to have THE Penguin? The captain? Now that would be something.

“Tori, get him to come and I’ll leave you alone about coming with.” He says, making a couple of people laugh.

I turn with a huge smile towards my favorite team’s captain, batting my eyelashes. Paul snorts and I almost break my concentration.

“I’ll owe you one?” I smile.
He laughs and blushes.
“Okay.” He agrees.
“Sick.” Russ says. “Come get your shit out of my car.”

I roll my eyes, but push him towards the door. Paul tells James to find another way there and agrees to give me a ride over. The rest head off towards their own cars. I grab my dress and heels from Russ’s back seat and decide to change behind the door of the car right here and now so I can leave my stuff with him, rather than carry it to the club with me.

Once I’m changed and touch up my makeup, I kiss Russ’s cheek and accept Paul’s elbow leading me towards his car. My phone buzzes almost instantly in my small clutch and I pull it out, laughing at my brother’s tweet. I read it out loud so my company can hear it too.

“Just turned my sister over to half the @Penguins roster for some club action. But in exchange they’re coming to the game tomorrow night? #NowWeHaveToWin #PittsFinest”

Paul laughs along with me as he helps me into his car.

“They better win!” He says.
“They should. They’re a better team. It’s an intense rivalry, though. So who knows what will happen. It’s like playing the Flyers or the Rangers.”
He scrunches up his nose and I laugh.

Paul drives us to Diesel’s and helps me out of the car when we get there. The two of us immediately bypass the long line to get in and head straight for the VIP section upstairs. It’s not my first time in the VIP section here, but it most definitely is my first time here with a couple millionaires.

“Tori!” Beau cheers when he sees us walk in. “Bortz and I got shots for you!”
“Awesome!” I laugh.
“Is vodka.” A heavy voice says behind me. I turn and find Geno smiling, handing me a glass.
“Even better.” I smile and tip the first shot back with ease.
His face twists in thought for a second before breaking into a grin.
“A woman who likes vodka? Is good.” He smiles.

I can’t help but blush. Fortunately for me, Beau distracts me by shoving another shot into my hand.

“What are we toasting to?” I ask.
“To you finally coming to a game!” Beau says.
We clink glasses and slam the shots back. I pick up another.
“To you finally scoring a goal!” I laugh.
Beau groans, no doubt thinking about the teasing he’s been getting from me about his lack in scoring lately. But he picks up another shot anyway and clinks my glass before throwing it back.

I’m not sure how many more toasts and shots later, but eventually I find myself being dragged to the public dance floor with James Neal. Even if I wanted to say no, there’s no way I could with his strong arms wrapped around me and pleading look begging me.

My illusion of the smooth-talking, smooth-dancing man is immediately shattered, however, as soon as James starts to dance. If you can even call it that. I feel horrible, but I actually laugh out loud at his awkward movements.

“Lazy not know how to dance.” Geno says, somehow materializing behind me again.
“He really doesn’t.” I laugh.
“You hold alcohol well for small girl.”
“Thanks?” I ask more than say.
“Woman who not hold alcohol well is....” He thinks for a second. “Not fun.”

Geno maneuvers himself so he’s basically taken over dancing with me from James. His movements are a lot more fluid, and quite frankly a little sexy. I wouldn’t have expected his large frame to move this well.

It’s a while before he speaks again.

“You different than most.” He smiles.
“Is that a good thing?” I ask.
“Yes. Is good.”

I can’t really think of anything more to say, so I turn my back to Geno and press against him, dancing into his lap. His large hand snakes around my waist and draws me even closer to him. The air around us gets thicker and warmer from our combined body heat and I feel my pulse start to pick up. My hair is starting to stick to the back of my neck, so I flip it over my shoulder. Geno pulls me so my back is right up against his chest and leans so my head rests in the space between his shoulder and neck. With my hair to the side, there’s no barrier between our skin. We’re both flushed and slightly moist from the gathering heat. I put my fingers over his on my hip and feel the smooth back of his hand. Meanwhile, his other hand runs down my exposed arm careful and meticulous. His palms are calloused and rough, but his tough is gentle and sweet. It makes my head feel fuzzy.

Suddenly all the wind gets knocked out of me. The sparks I was missing the other night with Jon have all found their way here. It’s the only logical explanation for the intense pull I’m feeling towards the man behind me. But it makes no sense. I hardly know him.

I can’t stay here. I can’t keep dancing with him.

“I need some air.” I say quickly, escaping from his grip and making my way towards the back door.

I burst through the door and into the cold late October air, taking deep breaths in and out. I hear the door open and a pair of men’s shoes appear beside my heels.

“You okay?” The Russian accent asks.
I can’t look up at him.
“Yeah. I think the alcohol and the crowd just caught up to me.” I lie, inching away from him.
“I get Pauly. He take you home?”
“Sure.” I say, just trying to get my own space to breathe.

He disappears and I finally feel like I can take a deep breath. A couple minutes later a much smaller man comes through the door. I’m feeling a lot better, so I look up into my friend’s worried face.

“Are you okay?” Paul asks.
“Yeah.” I smile convincingly. “I think the alcohol and close quarters just all caught up to me at one time. I’m fine though.”
“I was just thinking I was going to head out soon anyway. And I think a bunch of guys are leaving too. Would you like a ride home?”
“I live kinda far away. It’s fine, I’ll catch a cab.”
“Tori, you don’t have to catch a cab. I didn’t drink much. I’m fine to drive. And I don’t mind driving you home.”
“Paul, I live pretty far away. And James told me you guys live in the other direction.”
“So come home with me.” My eyebrows shoot up. “You can stay in my guest room. I’ll drive you home in the morning. I just don’t want you to have to take a cab. I don’t trust them at this time of night.”
I think about it for a second.
“Okay.” I agree. “But I want a shirt and sweatpants to sleep in.”
“Deal.” He smiles.

Despite James’s protests, Paul makes sure that I get the front seat as we climb into his car. His protests turn to drunken giggles once he realizes we’re headed to their houses, though.

“Tori, are you coming to spend the night with me?” He asks.
“No.” Paul barks. “She’s definitely not.”
“Why?”
“You’ll try to sleep with her. And she’s not sleeping with you.”
“But why?”
“Because she’s too good for you. You know that.”
“Yeah, I know.” James sounds sad. “I have low standards and she’s way out of my league.”
“You know you can raise your standards, right James?” I ask.
“But that’s hard.” He whines.
Paul and I laugh, but I take in James’s appearance through the passenger side mirror. He seems deep in thought and stays this way for the rest of the ride.

Paul eventually pulls into the driveway of a decent sized house and tells me he’ll be right back out. He drags James out of the car, who still seems deep in thought.

“See you in the morning, Tori! Have a good sleep.” James says.
“You too, James.” I smile.

Paul walks him to the door and disappears inside for a minute. I take this time to pull my phone out and check my texts and notifications. I’ve got a couple texts from friends at school and members of my family, but most of the stuff on my phone is from twitter. I don’t really feel like going through it all at the moment, but I do check Russ’s tweet from earlier. It seems as though a lot of people have seen it, and he’s got tons of responses. When Paul re-emerges from James’s house, I put my phone away and lean back in the seat, ready to fall asleep.

“The alcohol is catching up with you, huh?” Paul chuckles.
“Yeah. I’m tired.” I laugh.
“So are you kinda sobering up?”
“A little.” I admit, pulling my hair into a bun on the top of my head. “But I’m definitely still drunk.”
“Drunk enough to tell me the real reason you bolted outside?”

Every muscle in my body freezes and my heart skips a beat.

“I don’t know what you mean.” I stammer.
“I’m not stupid. I saw how you were dancing with Geno.”
“I was dancing with him like I would have danced with anyone else.”
He scoffs and pulls into another driveway just a couple houses down from James’s.
“If you say so.” He says with a wink.

It’s way too late and too dark and I’m definitely too drunk to really check out the inside of Paul’s house, but I do notice it feels like a home, and it’s fairly clean. It has a relaxing smell to it, which surprises me.

“Your house feels like a home.” I comment, climbing the stairs behind him.
“Thanks?” He asks.
“Let me explain. So most of the homes and apartments I’ve been in that belong to guys are just a house. With minimal furniture and whatever. Like, they could move out in a day if they needed to. Yours feels like someone actually lives here. It’s a full home.”
He chuckles, which I hope means he understands my drunken babbling.

“Here’s the guest room.” He says, opening a door. “The bathroom is right next door. I’ll grab a shirt and some sweatpants for you and be right back.”

I walk into the room and sit on the edge of the bed. I slip my heels off and my feet practically sigh in relief. Paul comes back not even a minute later with a stack of clothes, which I smile at.

“Thanks, Paul.” I say. “For everything.”
“It’s seriously not a problem.” He responds.
“Can you help me with one more thing?” I ask.
“Sure.”
“Can you get my zipper?” I laugh.

He motions for me to turn around and I do. He quickly pulls the zipper down to the very bottom of my spine and brushes his hand along the side of my arm.

“If you need anything else, my room is right down the hall.”
“Okay. Good night, Paul.”
“Good night, Tori.”

The next morning, I wake up to the smell of breakfast being made and my stomach grumbles before I can even open my eyes. Which is a completely bad idea, it turns out. Groaning, I squint against the light filtering through the curtains. The clock on the bedside table says it’s almost eleven. I sigh, knowing I’ve got two hours until my brother’s game starts. Slowly, I pull myself into a sitting position and drop my feet to the floor. I grab my phone from the table and turn it on, whimpering at the bright light when it’s completely on. I ignore most of the messages, but one from Russ catches my eye. It’s from an hour ago, just asking me to call him. I know it must be serious if Russ wants a phone call on game day, so that immediately becomes my priority. Well, after finding food for my growling stomach and Advil for my splitting headache. I stand shakily and stretch out my back and arms. Looking down, I realize I’m wearing what looks like all team-issued gear, including a shirt with the number 7 on it. I chuckle to myself at how long Paul’s pants are on me and hit the button to call my brother.

“Where are you?” His frantic voice picks up almost immediately.
“I spent the night at Paul’s.” I respond groggily. “What’s up?”
“You’re coming to my game, right?”
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for anything.” I respond, heading out of my room and down the steps.
“Okay, good. You just never responded to any of my texts last night. And you weren’t answering your phone this morning.”
“I was at the club until.... well, I don’t know when. And I just woke up.”

I reach the bottom floor and turn to my left, passing through a den area and into a mud room. Realizing this is the end of the road this way, I turn around and head back.

“Well you know we start at one, right?”
“Yeah.”
“Okay, well they’re honoring the seniors before kickoff.”
“I thought the senior game was in two weeks?” I ask, passing the steps and heading the other way this time.
“It was supposed to be, but Rosedale wants to change that to a ten am game. And no one wants to have senior day that early.”
“Okay. So I’ll be there earlier.”
I step into a rather large living room and gape at the gorgeous open floor plan. I spot Paul in the attached kitchen, plating breakfast and singling lightly to the radio.
“Good. Cause I also want you to be my escort.”
“What?” I cough out, getting Paul’s attention. “Are you fucking with me right now Russ?”
“No. You’re my favorite sibling and you’re actually home for this game and I want you and mom to be my escorts.”
“Russell, I’m nursing a massive hangover right now. I haven’t checked, but I probably look like a walking zombie. And you want me to be your escort for your senior day? That’s happening in two hours?”
I hear Paul chuckle as he slides two Advil and a large glass of water towards me. I gratefully accept them.
“Yeah. I was hoping you would.” Russ says simply.
I groan.
“You’re so lucky I love you.” I say.
“I know.” I can hear his smile through the phone. “Be there like twenty minutes early.”

He hangs up and I groan again, resting my head on the counter.

“So I’m assuming you want me to take you home now.” Paul chuckles.
“Good morning, Paul. Today is the day I’m going to murder my little brother.” I respond dryly. He laughs. “Yes, I would like you to take me home early enough for me to shower and make myself look presentable for this stupid game. But after breakfast.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
Paul hands me a plate and I gaze lovingly at one of the omelets he made, along with some toast and bacon.

“This looks amazing.” I say. “Thank you.”
“No problem.” He responds. “I usually make breakfast for two anyway, so I just made it for three this morning.”
“Who’s the other person?” I ask.
“Nealer should be waking up right about now.” He responds, looking at the clock. “He’ll roll out of bed and come right over here, knowing full well he’s got nothing in his kitchen worth eating. He never does because he can’t cook.”

I laugh, not surprised at all by the idea of James’s lack of talents in the kitchen. Paul and I dig in to our breakfasts, which taste even more amazing than they look. The calories definitely start helping my pounding headache almost immediately, which is such a relief. Sure enough, about five minutes later I hear the door open and James’s footsteps in the hallway. When he enters the kitchen, I notice he looks like a zombie, too.

“Morning.” He grumbles, passing by me without a second glance.
“Good morning.” I respond.

James makes his own plate and plops down on the stool next to me, practically shoveling his food into his mouth. Paul finishes his breakfast before me, but only by a couple bites. I start to protest when he takes my plate, but he cuts me off.

“Don’t worry, I’m not doing the dishes. That’s Nealer’s job since he mooches off me every morning.” He laughs.
“Good.” I respond.
“Alright, James. I’ve got to take Tori home so she can get ready for the game. Lock up when you leave.”
“You’re coming back, right?” James asks between bites.
“Yeah. And apparently the two of us are picking up Geno. Sid said he’ll meet us there. Sunshine and Bortz haven’t responded, so they’re probably still asleep.”
“Okay good.”
“Oh, Tori. Will you text Sid the school?” Paul asks me.
“Uh... sure? I don’t have his number though.”
“I’ll give it to you on the way to your house.”

I nod and retreat to the guest room quickly, grabbing my clothes from last night. I still haven’t looked in a mirror, and I’m not really sure I want to at this point. I give James a hug and Paul and I head out to his car. Paul hands me his phone and tells me to take Sid’s number. My fingers shake as I type the numbers into my contacts list.

“You’re sure it’s okay to be giving me his number?” I ask, staring at the little numbers on my phone. “I can just text him from your phone.”
“I’m sure.” He laughs. “Sid is a pretty private person, but he’s not too crazy. You’re our friend, which makes it okay.”

I nod and slowly type out the text.

“Hey Sidney it’s Tori McKinley. Paul told me you wanted the name of the school. It’s Sewickley Academy, on Academy Ave.”

“Thanks.” He responds, not two minutes later.

I give Paul directions to my apartment, and we’re there in ten minutes. It leaves me with a little over an hour to shower and get to Russ’s game.

“Hey Paul?” I say, not moving from my seat.
“Yeah?”
“Thank you. For everything.”
“It’s no problem.” He smiles.
“I know, but still... Thank you.”

Paul grabs my hand and squeezes a little. I lean over and kiss his cheek before hopping out of the car.

“See you in a little bit.” He says.
“Yup!” I respond.

Less than an hour later, I’m climbing into my car clean, dressed, and ready for the game. I’m pleased with the sexy-yet-professional black dress I’ve chosen. My Academy-Red heels and clutch look fantastic with it, and my hair is almost perfect, considering the short amount of time I had to deal with it. I make the short fifteen minute drive over to my former high school and pull into the parking lot with three minutes to spare. Fortunately for me, I found a great parking spot right next to the stadium. It’s a huge surprise, considering how packed the lot is. I make my way into the stadium, passing by the long line for admission thanks to my alumni status. I pull my phone out, remembering what I had to tell Paul.

“Forgot to tell you. Admission is $10 each. Cash only.” I text.
“No worries. We might be late. Nealer is taking forever.” He responds.

I laugh out loud, just as I reach the gathering of senior family members. I spot my mom immediately and make my way over to her.

“Hey mom.” I say, sliding up next to her.
“Tori! Finally.” She smiles, pulling me into a hug. “I’ve missed you so much!”
“Mom, I was home yesterday.” I laugh.
“Yes, but you’re always gone for so long. And then you went to the Pens game and...” I give her a look. “Oh shush.” She laughs, lightly shoving my shoulder. “It’s more than acceptable for me to miss my baby girl. Now tell me about your night. It was a great win!”

I laugh along with her and start telling her about my night out. We stay quiet, since I don’t want everyone around knowing I was out with the Penguins. The people at Sewickley Academy can be very gossipy.

“Victoria!” I hear, making me groan. I would know that voice anywhere.
“Hello Mrs. Lawson.” I say, turning to face my high school sweetheart’s mother.
“How are you, dear?” She asks.
“I’m great, how are you?”
“Oh, I’m fantastic. I can’t believe my youngest son is finally a senior! It feels like just last year you and Brett were graduating and going to prom together. Isn’t that right, Renee?” She asks.
“Definitely.” My mom agrees stiffly, not wanting to engage with this woman either.
“You know, Brett is around here somewhere. I bet he’d love to see you.” She says.
“That’s great.” I reply.

Fortunately, we’re saved by the start of the ceremony. The mass of us make our way onto the field and pair off, heading towards our respective players.

“Can you believe the nerve of that woman?” My mom asks in a hushed voice.
I can’t hold back my laughter, and I don’t want to. It’s wonderful having such a supportive mother. When everything went down with Brett, it seemed like I had no one to turn to. It was just my mom and Aubrey, since I refused to talk to my brothers about it. I was left for a couple weeks with no one to confide in but them. She was supportive and loving and protective, just like any fantastic mother would be. And she still is.

The look on Russ’s face when he sees me removes the bitter taste that seeing Mrs. Lawson left in my mouth.

“You actually made it!” He says, wrapping me into a hug.
“I told you I would.” I smile.
“And you don’t look like a hungover zombie.”
“That’s because I showered.” I state simply. “But I’m definitely still hungover.”

He laughs and hugs mom before the three of us line up with the rest of the seniors. As the captain, Russ’s spot is last in the line. It gives the three of us a decent amount of time to mumble amongst ourselves and they catch me up on the gossip I’ve been missing since I went off to school in August. Since the Academy is a small private school, most of Russ’s classmates have older siblings who I went to school with. Or one of our other siblings went to school with.

The announcer introduces Bryce Lawson and my mother scoffs. Russ chuckles, but stops suddenly.

“What?” I ask, eyeing him.
“Uh...” He looks down at his feet.
“What?” I ask again.
“I heard some gossip the other day. I’m not sure if it’s true or not though...”
“Tell us.” Mom says, interested.
“Well....” He shamefully avoids looking in my eyes.
“It has to do with Brett.” I state, gaining a nod. “And Kylie?”
He nods again.
“I heard she’s pregnant.” Russ admits, finally looking me in the eye for half a second.
I let the thought process in my head for a moment before responding.
“I guess it’s a good thing I’m not dating him anymore. Instead of an NCAA athlete and Olympic hopeful, I’d be knocked up and pathetic.”
Russ laughs, and I feel the tension dissipate.
“I am so glad you’re not dating that fucking cocksucker anymore.” He says.
“Russell!” My mother scolds. It’s not intimidating though, since she’s holding in her laughter as much as we are.
“What? Would you like me to call him a nice name? He’s a pansy ass little bitch and I’d love to have two minutes alone with him to show him exactly how I feel. That’s the nicest I can be. And I promise Tom and Dan and Steve would all agree with me. Probably Josie too.”
“O mój Boże.” Mom mumbles, chuckling. (Oh my God.)
“Think of it this way, mom. At least your kids love and support each other.”

By this time, it’s Russ’s turn to be announced and the three of us have to compose ourselves as best as we can. We begin our long walk down the field between the underclassmen football players and the cheerleaders as the announcer begins.

“Our final senior this afternoon is Russell McKinley. Russ is a two-year football captain, swimming captain, and lacrosse captain. His 4,237 career passing yards to date are just a hundred and twelve short of the school record, and his 3.8 GPA puts him in the top ten percent of his class. Russ currently has scouting offers from multiple schools for all three sports, including a football interest from Pitt. Russ’s escorts today are, in his own words, ‘the two greatest women alive.’ They are his mom Renee, and his sister Victoria. Russ’s goal in life is to become a successful business person, like the rest of his siblings. His favorite class is english, and his least favorite is math. Russ’s role model is his older sister, Victoria. He says she is his role model because she always has a positive attitude, she’s dedicated to all the right things in life, and she ‘straight up kicks ass.’ The three words that Russ uses to describe himself are ‘family, future, and football.’ Ladies and gentlemen, your 2013 captain, Russell McKinley.”

The crowd cheers and I can’t help but get a little emotional over it. I never knew I was his role model in life. It makes me start to re-think every moment I’ve had alone with him in the past couple of years. We reach the end of the line and Russ is handed two pink roses, which he gives to us. We pose for a couple pictures as a trio before mom and I have to leave.

“Kick ass, okay?” I say, giving Russ a hug.
“You bet.” He smiles.
“Kocham cię.” (I love you.)
“Kocham cię.”

I follow my mom and the rest of the family members off the field and into the stands, meeting up with my dad and grandparents. In the midst of talking to them and trying to find seats for us all, I feel my phone buzz in my clutch. I pull it out and find a text from Sidney.

“I’m at the top of the bleachers all the way on the right. Paul said they’ll be here in a couple minutes.”

I tell my mom what’s up and hug and kiss my family goodbye, making my way up to him. It’s actually pretty easy to spot Sidney, since he’s sectioned off from everyone else.

“Hey.” I say, feeling slightly awkward.
“Hey.” He responds. “You look nice.”
“Thanks. I was hoping to look somewhat presentable to mask the fact that I’m still massively hung over.”
He laughs a little and the awkwardness hangs heavy in the air between us.
“Thanks so much for coming today.” I say, trying to find something to talk about. “You guys honestly didn’t have to. But I think it means a lot to Russ.”
“You’re welcome.”

We fall into an uncomfortable silence as the game begins, and I can’t help but realize he’s treating me as though I’m a reporter.

“You know, Crosby, not everyone wants something from you.” He looks at me with a confused look. “I know what it’s like, being a professional athlete. Well, I’m not a professional. But in my sport I’ve made it to the highest level. Most people want things from me. Guys want to get into my pants, just to say they’ve slept with a two-time Olympic medalist. Girls want to become friends with me because guys flock to wherever I am when I’m out. And they want to take advantage of the fact that I’ve got an incredible wardrobe from when I was bouncing around between awards shows morning shows and late night shows and photo shoots and everything else. Other divers want to become my friend in hopes that somehow my success will help them further their own careers, despite their actual talents. I’m sure that’s the same for you in the hockey world. It probably seems like everyone wants to be friends with Sidney Crosby, the face of the NHL. And no one cares about Sid, the regular guy who puts his clothes on one piece at a time, just like everyone else... Or whatever that saying is, I don’t know... The point is, I get it. I really do. It’s hard to know who you can trust outside of your family and teammates. But it’s not impossible to find someone outside of those small groups who truly cares about you. And I mean the real you, not the public you. The thing is, that can’t happen if you don’t let anyone in. I guess what I’m trying to say is.... It looks like I’m going to be around for a little while. Paul and James and Beau and Rob... they’re my friends now. That isn’t going to change. But it might be a little hard to maintain our friendships when their friend, teammate and captain doesn’t trust me enough to be friends with me too. Sid... it wouldn’t kill you to make a friend outside of the hockey world.”

He stares at me for a second and I worry that maybe I overstepped my boundaries. Until he smiles. And not that “forced for the camera” smile that usually shows up during interviews. No, this is a real Sidney Crosby smile. The kind you occasionally see when he isn’t aware of the camera filming him during a children’s hospital visit. He chuckles a little and I can visibly see the tension release from his shoulders. He looks at me with kind eyes and shakes his head.

“You know, Jon said you’re a really cool girl. He said you’re different than most. I wasn’t sure about taking his word for it, since I had only met you once for about five minutes. But it seems as though he’s a little more trustworthy than I gave him credit for.”
“Jon Toews?” I ask. He nods and I smile. “He’s a horrible judge of character. I mean, he’s friends with Patrick Kane.” I joke, winking so Sid understands.

Sidney laughs and it’s infectious. I soon find myself laughing along with him.

“What are we laughing about?” James’s voice comes from beside me.
“Don’t worry about it.” Sidney says, smiling at the trio filing into their seats around us.

James sits right next to me, on the other side of Sidney, and Paul and Geno sit in front of us.

“You’re looking more human.” Paul says with a wink.
“Feeling more human, too.” I laugh.
“Lucky you.” James groans, leaning his head on my shoulder. “I feel like someone stabbed me in the forehead with a knife.”

We laugh at him, and fall into an easy conversation. Mainly, Paul and James stick to explaining American football to Geno- who’s picking the game up pretty quickly for someone who didn’t grow up with it. Fortunately, Russ is having a great game and there’s a good atmosphere around us. It makes explaining the game a little easier. Sid and I discuss my diving career, which he asks a lot of questions about. I can tell all four of them are interested in it, which makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. It’s always nice to know someone is supportive of your career. I tell them about the major events of my career, Beijing and London. But I also tell them about the smaller ones like Big Tens and NCAAs.

At one point, my phone starts to buzz incessantly and I unlock it, only to find my twitter notifications are blowing up. I’m confused for a second, before I realize that James’s phone is also blowing up.

“What did you post?” I ask, laughing.
“Nothing.” He says innocently.

I pull up my notifications and find that he tagged me in a tweet. It’s a picture of me and Sid talking to each other. Sid’s got his arm draped across my chair and I’m leaning in to him, my hand on his knee. We’re both laughing and you can see Geno and Paul in the background smiling as well. James’s caption says “Looks like the Captain is finally learning how to interact with real humans. #ManOrMachine? #IWantToBeARealBoy”

I can’t help but burst into laughter, passing my phone to Sid to see. He goes bright red, but there’s a small smile on his face.

“That’s a good picture. Send it to me.” He tells James, who does just that.

I watch as Sid saves the picture to my contact information so it pops up whenever I call him. I can’t help but feel a little triumphant. I may not know him that well, but I can tell this isn’t the type of behavior Sidney usually shows with just anyone.

“I have question.” Geno says at the start of the second quarter.
“Shoot.” I say.
“You know many divers around world?”
“Yeah, a bunch. Especially the ones who competed in London.”
“You know Yulia Kultinova?”
“Russian, right?” I ask. He nods. “Yeah! She came in fourth in London. And third at 2013 Worlds this summer.”
“What did you place?” James asks.
“At Worlds?” He nods. “I didn’t compete. I was still recovering from my surgery. We didn’t want to risk going back too early and messing me up more before the season even started.”
“What surgery?” Sid asks, a worried look on his face.
“I had a couple partially torn tendons in my wrist and had to get them fixed. I’m getting the other one done at the end of this season, since we didn’t want to have to rehab both at the same time. It’s fine though. Not a big deal.”
“Is it affecting your diving?” Paul asks. I’m baffled by their concern, yet feel a little warm and fuzzy inside.
“Not really. I’m just not competing as often as I usually would. We pick and choose what I do, depending on who we’re against and how many competitions I have to have in order to qualify for the tournaments. Most of the time I’m only either doing individual or synchro. Not both. It minimizes the stress on my wrists so hopefully it doesn’t get as bad as it was last year. It’s honestly not that big of a deal though. The high level divers all have wrist surgeries eventually. But anyway, why did you ask about Yulia?”
“She is friend.” Geno says, shrugging. “Well... she is friend of friend.”
“Was that the chick that came with Sabina the last time she was here?” James asks, making a face of pure disgust.
“Yes.” Geno responds, his face tightening. “Yulia is nice girl. Make Russia proud at Olympics.”
“She’s a damn good diver, too.” I add. “Her execution is exquisite. If she had higher difficulty in her dives, she’d be a gold medal contender.”
Geno smiles big and bright, happy with my evaluation of his friend.

The rest of the quarter is a little nerve-wracking. Multiple times the Academy is deep in their defensive zone, but each time one of our guys comes up with a big stop or a fumble recovery. We cheer as the half ends, the Academy currently winning 14-7. I announce that I have to run to the bathroom and squeeze my way past James and down the bleachers towards the restrooms. I happen to be in line right behind my senior year english teacher, Mrs. Donneth, and have a nice conversation with her about Russ and being in college and everything else while we wait.

Coming out of the bathroom, I have my head down trying to avoid anyone stopping me so I can get back to the game. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work. And even more unfortunately, the person who stops me is the one person I was hoping to avoid the most.

“Hello, Tori.” The familiar voice says, forcing me to stop and look up.
“Brett.” I respond, faking a half-smile.
“How are you?”
“I’m good.”
“That’s great. My mom said you were here. You were escorting your brother?”
“Yes.”
A bottle blonde saunters up behind and around me, attaching herself to Brett’s hip. I almost snort at how plastic and fake she is until I realize who’s standing right in front of me. And then I actually do snort.
“You remember Kylie, right?” Brett asks slyly.
“Of course I do. We were best friends for four years.” I reply, not even attempting to control my eye roll.
“It’s so nice to see you.” Kylie says, fake and obnoxious. “You haven’t changed one bit.”
“Well. You’ve changed a lot.” I reply, admiring her obvious nose job and fake boobs.
“Did Brett tell you our news?” She asks, a wicked smile on her face.
“No, he did not.” I respond cooly.
“It’s quite amazing, actually. I’m pregnant!”
“Oh?” I ask, nonchalantly. I try my hardest not to let the pit in my stomach grow. I shouldn’t care about them anymore. It’s been over three years.
“Just a little over three months, now. I’m due in the middle of April.”
“Well congratulations. Will you still be graduating?” My adrenaline is starting to pump and I can feel my palms starting to get clammy.
“Unfortunately, no. I won’t be taking any classes in the spring.”
“How unfortunate. I’ve heard it’s hard to raise a baby and finish getting an education at the same time.” I let a little attitude slide into my comment, a product of the nervous feeling in my stomach.
“It’s not impossible, though.” She smiles, but I see it falter a little.
“No, I guess not.”

To my relief, our discussion is interrupted by one of my new friends.

“Tori. Paul send me to find you. Make sure you returning to sit with us.” Geno says, oblivious to the two people I’m talking to.
“Of course! We were just finishing up here.” I respond, catching the amazed look in Brett’s eyes when he realizes just who’s standing in front of him.

It’s a doubly rewarding feeling, considering I know Geno is one of Brett’s favorite players. The former Academy ice hockey captain modeled his playing style after Geno’s for most of his high school career.

“Good.” Geno says, finally acknowledging the two in front of me with a small head nod. “You come now?”
“Sure.” I say, smirking and wrapping my arm through his elbow.

I don’t even bother saying goodbye to either Brett or Kylie, walking away and dragging a somewhat confused Russian quickly forward along with me. I can feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins and know I need to find a quiet place to have a moment to calm down before returning to the public eye. I pull Geno around to the back of the stands where no one goes and lean against the brick wall, closing my eyes and taking deep breaths.

“You okay?” He asks, his hand brushing delicately along my forearm.
“Yes.” I reply with no conviction what so ever. “No... I don’t know.”
“What is wrong?”

And that’s how I find myself behind the bleachers at my alma mater with Evgeni Malkin, telling him about the nasty break up from my high school sweetheart. Every emotion, every tear, every high and every low. I tell him about our first date and how wonderful he was all throughout out our sophomore, junior and senior years. I tell him about the school’s tradition of grandiose prom proposals, and how his topped them all. I tell him about winning prom king and queen together, and his promise that he’ll love me forever- complete with a ruby promise ring. And then I tell him about how excited I was when I came home early from Worlds the summer after graduation, sporting my bronze medal. I thought it would be a wonderful idea to surprise Brett at home, since he wasn’t expecting me until the next afternoon. I tell Geno exactly how it felt to walk into his room, only to find Kylie- one of my best friends- naked in his bed with his dick inside her. I tell him exactly how hard my heart broke in that moment. And how hard I punched him in the face. I told him about making it half way home before breaking down right then and there in my car. Having to call Aubrey to come and get me because I was so incapable of functioning that I couldn’t get myself home. I tell him about finding out later that their relationship had been going on behind my back for months. And most of my friends already knew about it, and didn’t care enough to tell me. They all took Brett and Kylie’s side, claiming they could tell it was true love between them. They all said I wasn’t good enough for him. But that I was decent enough to pass, since I was one of the few girls his mom approved of. I tell him that’s why I don’t keep in contact with any of my friends from high school besides my cousins. It hurts too much to be reminded of how they all betrayed me. Of how they all turned on me when I needed them the most. I don’t cry, though. Which is a step up from the last time I talked about Brett Lawson.

To his credit, Geno just listens. He doesn’t try to console me or get me to stop talking. He just keeps his hand on my forearm, rubbing patterns with his thumb. When I’m done, he pulls me into a full-body hug and lets me bury my face into his chest. His hand rubs circles along my back and his breathing is calm and steady. I find myself trying to match my breaths with his in order to calm myself down.

“He is stupid boy.” Geno finally says once my vitals are somewhat normal. “He let beautiful, successful woman go.” I blush, my face still tucked against his chest. “I have woman like that, I never do something stupid to make her leave. Treat her like princess.”

I don’t know how to respond to that, so I don’t. I just let him continue to hug me until I feel completely put back together. I look up at Geno with a weak smile.

“I’m sorry you had to witness all that. I swear I’m not normally like this.” I apologize.
“Is okay.” He says reassuringly. “Am glad I find you and rescue from them.”
“My knight in shining armor.” I laugh jokingly.
“Yes.”
“Come on. Let’s get back to the guys. They’ll be wondering where we are.”

Geno takes my hand and places it on his elbow before leading me around to the front of the stands. I check the clock and realize it’s already the fourth quarter. Fortunately, the Academy is still winning, 28-10. And we’re on offense, making our way towards their territory. Geno and I climb the stairs up to the farthest corner of the bleachers, gaining curious looks along the way. I know there will be dozens of rumors floating around the Academy population about us by the end of the day, but somehow I can’t seem to find the energy to care. Or maybe I just don’t have a reason to care. So what if they talk about me and Geno? Let them.

“Sorry guys. Ran into a couple of old friends.” I say, sliding into my seat between James and Sid.
“No worries. The touchdowns were both run in, so you didn’t miss anything from Russ.” Paul says.

Just as the words are leaving his mouth, my brother lets go of a gorgeous pass down the field to his best friend and favorite wide receiver Tyler Burns. Tyler catches it at about the five yard line and crosses into the end zone untouched. I jump up and cheer loudly, along with everyone else in attendance. Russ pumps his fist and meets Tyler half way, jumping into his arms in celebration.

“I’m so fucking proud of that kid.” I say, beaming.
“That was a pretty amazing pass.” James agrees.

In the final six minutes of play, the defense holds off any chance of a comeback and the game ends with no more scoring from either team. Knowing full well that the presence of the four Penguins has not gone unnoticed, the five of us make our way quickly and efficiently out of the stadium and into the parking lot. Sid is the first to break off from the group, heading towards where he parked his car. I don’t miss the surprised looks between his teammates when he pulls me into a full hug goodbye. A hug which I most definitely return. Sid’s calm and open attitude has apparently stunned his teammates, who don’t know how to react for a moment after he leaves. They recover, though, and we make our way to Paul’s car.

“I told Sid this already, but seriously thank you guys for coming today. I think it meant a lot to Russ, even though you guys didn’t actually talk.” I say.
“Hey, we had fun.” James responds with a friendly nudge on my shoulder.
“Well we’re having a celebration tonight at my parents’ place over in Ben Avon Heights. I know you guys are leaving tomorrow for a long road trip, but you’re all more than welcome to join us.”
“I’m going to have to pass on that. I haven’t packed at all. I’m sorry.” Paul says. “And Nealer has to pack too.” He adds, eyeing James who’s shoulders slump forward.
“I’m sorry, Tori.” He says sadly.
“Have to take Jeffry to boarder.” Geno says with a frown. “And pack.”
“Hey, no worries. I figured you’d all say no anyway.” I smile. “I probably won’t stay long anyway. There’s no way I’m spending the rest of this day in this dress if I don’t have to.”

They laugh and each one gives me a hug goodbye. I can’t help but notice Geno’s is a little tighter and lingers a little longer than the other two. It leaves me with a smile on my face. One that Paul catches and I have to hide quickly. I look at Geno, who also has a little grin on his face. The three of us exchange glances, unsure of what to say next.

“Have a safe trip back to Columbus.” James says, breaking the silence and completely oblivious to whatever just happened between the three of us right in front of him..
“You guys have a safe west coast trip. Don’t lose any games, okay?” I ask.
They laugh.
“We’ll try.” Paul smiles.

They climb into Paul’s car and pull away and I’m left wishing that somehow I could go with them. Get to spend more time with them. My phone starts ringing from my clutch and I pull it out.

“Russell you played amazing!” I cheer into the phone.
“Thanks! I’m so glad we won. Can you give me and Tyler a ride home?”
“Is Tyler coming straight to our house?”
“Yeah. Mom said he could shower there. And he’s got stuff to wear tonight.”
“Okay. I’m in the parking lot already so just come find me when you’re done.”
“Deal. You’ve got dad’s car, right?”
“Bingo.”
“Thanks Tor!”

It takes Russ and Tyler ten more minutes before they’re in the parking lot. Russ tackles me in a hug, all smiles, and Tyler politely says hello. He’s always been one of my favorites out of Russ’s friends, simply because he’s an overall nice kid. We climb into the car and make the five minute drive to my childhood home, excited and ready for the celebration tonight.

By the time I get home, I’ve got four new texts. Each one is from a different Penguin.

From Sid, it’s a simple “Safe travels back to Columbus.”
From James it’s “I might sneak off from Pauly tonight and join your party. Gimme the address :)”
From Paul, it’s “Please don’t give Nealer your address. I know he wants to come to your house tonight but our flight is at 6am and it’s hard enough as it is to get him up at that time.”
And from an unknown number, it’s “Hi this Geno. Stole number from Pauly. Had good time at game. Thanks for inviting me. ))”

Notes

Hi friends!!!

First. Wow! I know I've said this before, but this is by far my longest update ever. Over 12K words! I really need to learn how to just stop writing at a certain point. Unless you guys like long chapters? In which case, I guess I don't have to.

Second. If it's not completely obvious by this point..... this is a Geno story!!!! Yay! Kinda weird for me to be writing, since I'm so totally 100% NOT a Penguins fan what so ever. BUT... I kinda have a soft spot for the adorable Russian (don't tell Couturier I'm cheating on him!) so yeah.

Third. Sewickley Academy is a real place. I googled private schools in Pittsburgh and it popped up. I am not pretending to know absolutely anything about it, though. Because I don't. All I know is that their colors are red and white, and they don't actually have a football team.

Fourth. I've said this before, but nomoreicing's story Of Icings, Halfpipes, and Pterodactyls is going to start crossing over with this story a little more. You don't have to read it, but I would suggest you do. Not only will some of the things coming up make more sense, but it's just a good story in general :)

Fifth. The next chapter is going to take a while to come out. I have an exam tomorrow, long days on Saturday and Sunday, and three exams next week. Yay for getting a college education. (insert eye roll here!)

Sixth...... comments are really nice and they make me happy :)

Seventh. I hope you're all having a great day! And if you're not, I hope it gets better from now.