Tyler yawned and stretched out his limbs. Sleeping in the same position all night had killed him; there was no doubt he would need an excruciating pre-game rub down by one of the trainers. Or Nicki, if she was up to it. For the time being, she was passed out next to him. It was one of a handful of mornings that he had woken up before her.

Nicki certainly hadn’t had the easiest day yesterday. Somewhere between hyper extending her elbow and her insatiable libido, she had seriously tuckered herself out. Tyler had no problem admitting that he was part of the issue. He’d given her a run for her money. If it was physically possibly, he would give it to her every time she wanted it. But he couldn’t keep up with her.

After one last stretch, he rolled onto his side and pressed against her again. Her back was still warm from him spending the night there. Tyler planted a kiss between her shoulders before placing his head on top of hers and sliding his arm underneath her pillow. He let his other arm fall over her side. The sling made it difficult for him to get comfortable, and he ended up with his hand between her breasts. That was okay with him.

Her supple skin tempted him. Tyler inched his hand underneath her tank top, but thought better of it and pulled away. He had to play in the single most important game of his life that night. He needed to preserve his energy, which unfortunately meant sex was out of the question. Tyler comforted himself with the thought of what Nicki might be like later on if they won the cup. He got the feeling he would be going to bed that night a very happy man.

He stayed that way with her for a while, blissfully unaware of anything besides how remarkable it felt to hold her. They’d spent countless nights together, and it seemed as though each time he managed to appreciate her more and more. Tyler pressed his lips to Nicki’s temple before lifting his head to look over her shoulder at the alarm clock. He had to be at the Garden for morning skate in thirty minutes.

Tyler sighed and left Nicki alone in their bed. The only thing fueling him was the knowledge of what could happen if they won tonight. He questioned his sanity when he realized that he cared more about Shawn’s plan than he did about actually winning the Stanley Cup.

He lazily put on a pair of sweatpants before walking out of the room. If he could, he’d stroll around in the nude all day; he preferred clothes off to clothes on. But he had the assumption that Freddy would probably rupture a blood vessel if he ever saw that.

When Tyler entered the living room, he was surprised with innumerable cardboard boxes stacked nearly to the ceiling. Freddy popped out from behind one.

“Hey!”

Tyler could feel the confusion on his face. Freddy was never this happy in the morning. In fact, he was never this happy period.

“Uh, hey. What’s all this?”

“I hope you don’t mind,” he started. “Evy’s moving in today.”

“I thought she wasn’t coming for a couple of weeks?”

Freddy glanced down at his shoes. “She wasn’t. But then she told me she was going to come back and visit again, like, as soon as she got home. And I figured, what the fuck, right? Are you pissed?”

Tyler shook his head. “Nah, why would I be? I’m barely even going to be here today, anyways. Just don’t wake up Nicki.”

“She went back to sleep?” he asked, surprised.

“What?”

“Yeah, she got up at like six. I think Evaline woke her up by accident. She left something for you in the kitchen.”

Tyler was stunned. How had she managed to get up and come back without him noticing? He walked into the kitchen and saw that something wrapped in tinfoil was neatly placed in the middle of the island. When he got closer, he noted the presence of a ripped up piece of paper.

Hey Ty! I made this for you. I’m probably going to be asleep when you leave this morning, so in case I don’t see you, good luck! I love you :)

P.S. check the fridge

He grinned as he read through her flawless handwriting. He hadn’t even been awake for an hour and Nicki had already made his day. Tyler grabbed the mystery object and unwrapped it, revealing a bagel with peanut butter and jelly. That was his favorite thing to eat when he was stuck at the Garden. He hadn’t even realized until then that he was starving. Tyler took a bite and opened the fridge. On the middle shelf directly in front of him was a big water bottle, filled with what he assumed to be a protein shake.

Tyler brought his hand up to his face, stroking the playoff beard that he desperately wanted to shave. Before last night, he’d never given any real consideration to what it might be like to be married, or what Nicki might be like as a wife. If this was any indication, she was going to be really fucking amazing. He was ripped away from his daydream by a hand on his waist.

“Hi, Tyler. I hope you don’t mind I came today, I know today’s a big day for you.”

He looked down at Evaline. “I don’t mind at all. Believe me, I remember how exciting it was when Nicki moved in. I’d be an asshole if I told you to wait.”

Tyler could see why Freddy was so infatuated with her. She was a pretty girl, and had crystal blue eyes that could see right through you. Evaline was the sweetest person he’d ever met. He had to admit, he never thought Freddy would end up with a girl like her. Tyler always pictured him with some emo band chick that listened to the same weird music as he did.

“You have to let me know if there’s any way I can ever thank you for this.”

Tyler shrugged her off, and then thought again. She could be really helpful. He knew that she and Nicki had become close, and would only be closer once they lived under the same roof.

“Actually, I might take you up on that. Just don’t be surprised if I ask you to do a little reconnaissance work for me.”

Evaline giggled and turned around to face him. “Are you asking me to break the girl code and tell you things that Nicki says about you?”

“No, no,” he said laughing. “There are just some things that I can’t ask her that I might need answers to.”

Her soft smile grew into an enormous grin. She spoke quietly.

“Freddy told me. Tyler, she is going to die.”

He felt his face drop. “What? In a bad way or a good way?”

Evaline reached out and touched his arm. It comforted him instantaneously.

“In a good way! Jesus, I think she’s wanted to marry you since the second she met you.”

He breathed a sigh of relief. The next few months were going to be anything but easy.

“Just let me know what you need help with,” she said as she walked out of the room.

Tyler grabbed the water bottle out of the fridge, taking a swig to wash down his already half eaten bagel. It still didn’t feel quite real to him. Maybe once he picked out a ring things would seem more definitive. He was going to have to have some of the team go with him; he didn’t know the first thing about picking out jewelry, never mind an engagement ring. Tyler was confident that he knew what she would like, but needed the moral support that his team offered.

He sat on a stool and permitted his thoughts to wander. He tried to picture the expression that would be on her face when he asked. Tyler guessed that she would cry… a lot. He couldn’t wait to feel the way she would kiss him; the way she would be when he took her home that night. If she said yes.

There was always the possibility that she would say no. As sure as everyone was, no one knew what she was thinking. What if she wasn’t ready? He began to think doing it publicly wasn’t such a great idea.

The alarm on his phone went off, reminding him that it was time to leave. Tyler stepped into his shoes and found his car keys before grabbing his protein shake off of the table.

“I’ll see you guys in an hour or so,” he called to whoever might have been listening.

** * * * *

“So is it true?”

Tyler looked to his left at his teammate. Andrew Ference was one of the kindest people he’d ever met, and one of the most loyal, dedicated friends. He was the only person on the team who acted like a role model and a buddy at the same time. Tyler didn’t have to ask him what he was talking about.

“Yeah, it’s true.”

Andrew grinned at him.

“I’m in shock.”

Tyler laughed light heartedly. “How do you think I feel?”

“I bet you feel pretty damn good,” he said, nodding. “Nervous, but good.”

“Nervous is right. I can’t stop wondering what I’d do if she says no. Is it a bad idea to do it in front of people?”

“Nah, it’ll be fine. It’s going to be worth it if she says yes. I won’t lie to you man, there’s always a chance she’ll say no. But I’m familiar enough with Nicki to know that she’d never do anything to embarrass you.”

He nodded. He hadn’t thought of that. She definitely would never do anything to hurt him; not on purpose.

“I guess you’re right. Listen, Ferry, it’d mean a lot to me if you could help me out with this. Luc and Horty offered, and they’re great, but I dunno. You seem like you’ve got all this shit down to a science.”

“Segs, you don’t have to ask. I’ll do whatever I can. What exactly do you need help with?”

Tyler paused as Claude called for them to huddle up.

“The ring. I know it’s not brain surgery, but I just want a second opinion.”

Andrew smiled again and gave him a pat on the back of the helmet.

“Well, when we go to Florida after we win this fuckin game tonight, I’ll show you the place I got Krista’s ring. We can have her come if you want. Brittany and Tammy, too. If you want a solid opinion, they’re your best option.”

Tyler returned the smile. “Thanks, man.”

** * * * *

When Nicki woke up, she felt blindly around the bed for Tyler. The absence of warmth against her told her that he had left a while ago. A part of her wished she could sleep until he came back, so she could wake up to his arms around her. Then she realized that this could be the last day that Tyler had to play hockey. If they won, she would have him to herself for the entire summer. It seemed much too good to be true.

Nicki felt the bed sag next to her and finally opened her eyes, rolling over to look at Evaline.

“Hey cutie. I didn’t wake you up again, did I?”

“Nope,” Nicki said as she yawned. “Do you guys need some help out there?”

“We’re almost done. Thanks anyways. I can’t believe I’m gonna be living here.”

Nicki sat up and put an arm over Evaline’s shoulders.

“Let me tell you, Evy. It’s something else. Living with those two is amazing. We have so much fun.”

Evaline turned her head to look at Nicki, squinting her eyes slightly.

“I know. It’s so exciting. You guys are like family, huh?” Nicki nodded, beaming. Evaline paused before speaking again. “Do you think you’re ever really going to be family?”

“What do you mean? And why are you looking at me like that?”

Evaline pulled away from her. “I think you know what I mean. I’m just curious. You and Tyler are inseparable… a girl can’t help but wonder…”

Nicki sighed and leaned back against the headboard. “Honestly, Evy, you’re gonna think I’m crazy. But I swear he’s been dropping hints about it. And I kept telling myself ‘no, Nicki, don’t be an idiot. You’re just going to get your hopes up and possibly ruin everything you have’. Then yesterday, he gave me this long, heartfelt speech. Like, straight out of The Notebook kind of thing. He was kind of vague, but I think he knew I was wondering about it. And he told me that it was okay to hope for it. I’m insane, right?”

“I don’t think you’re crazy. Hell, I daydream about Freddy asking me all of the time. It’s not like he’s done anything to make me think he would, but as girlfriends it’s our job to fantasize about it. You and Tyler, you guys have something really special. I mean, look at you. You’ve been together almost a half a year and you still can’t get enough of each other. I know that doesn’t call for gowns and cake, but still.”

Butterflies formed in Nicki’s stomach at the thought. It seemed so far, so unattainable. Before she could form a response, Freddy called Evaline’s name. She hopped off of the bed and turned to the door.

“We can talk more later,” she said as she walked out.

Nicki sank lower onto the bed, forgetting momentarily that she had injured her elbow. She moved it the wrong way, sending a pain shooting up her arm. She winced and got off of the bed in search of her pills. The last time she had seen them, they were on the kitchen counter.

“Morning Nicki,” Freddy said as he hugged her.

She laughed. “Hey, Freddy! I think this is the first time you’ve ever hugged me voluntarily.”

“Are you making us breakfast, or did you just make something for Tyler?” he asked, ignoring what she had previously said.

“Is that the only thing you care about? I’m hurt,” she teased. “I have to eat before I take my medicine anyways, so I might as well make something. What do you want?”

“Omelettes.”

“French Toast.”

Nicki smiled. “Since this is Evy’s first day here, she gets to pick. Omelettes it is.”

** * * * *

Tyler nearly had to crawl to make it up the stairs to his apartment. He figured Nicki wouldn’t be able to untangle his muscles very well with a single hand, so he’d asked one of the trainers to rub him down after practice. He instantly regretted it. Nicki had been giving him massages for so long that he’d entirely forgotten how painful they were from the trainers.

When he entered the apartment, he noticed that only two cardboard boxes remained. They had made quick work; he’d only been gone an hour and a half.

“Hey Ty!” shouted Freddy over the music he and Evaline had playing. “Just in time! We just had breakfast. Nicki made an extra omelette for you, it’s on the counter.”

“Where is she?”

“I think she went to take a shower,” said Evaline.

Tyler weighed out his options. Omelette or shower with Nicki. He strolled towards their bedroom without another word.

** * * * *

Nicki was about to give up on her shower when the glass door opened and Tyler stepped in. She hadn’t even heard him enter the bathroom. She looked him up and down, drinking him in.

“Hey.”

He wore her favorite childish grin on his face. He looked like a toddler who had just discovered candy for the first time. Nicki smiled back, unable to withhold her affection for him.

“Hi.”

Tyler stepped closer to her, closing the gap between them. He placed his hands on her hips, making her feel weak in the knees. She still hadn’t become accustomed to his touch; it was overpowering in the most gentle of ways.

“I figured you might need some help. Somehow I don’t think showering is going to be very easy with only one hand.”

Nicki stared up at him. It was like he always knew exactly what she was thinking. There was no way she was washing her hair in her current condition.

“Honestly, I really need it,” she said hesitantly. She hated asking for help. From anyone. For anything.

He glided his hands from her hips up her sides, slowing at her breasts for a moment before coming to a rest at the base of her neck. Nicki could tell that he was having trouble controlling his urges, but she did her best to push aside her desires. He needed everything he had for his game tonight. When he came home, it would be a different story.

Without any direction from Nicki, Tyler picked up her shampoo off of a shower shelf and squeezed some into his hand. He motioned for her to turn around so that her back was to him. She drew in a breath as his fingertips hit her scalp, letting her head fall back towards him. She moaned as his fingers worked their way through her hair. Nicki didn’t know why she liked people touching her head and hair so much. She assumed something about it reminded her of early childhood, memories that were forever lost in the back of her brain. Most of the things she found comforting were things her parents and grandparents did when she was young, before everything turned to shit.

“Ugh, Ty,” she said hoarsely, “This is almost better than sex.”

Tyler laughed behind her and turned her around to face him. She couldn’t stop her eyes from wandering southward down his body. Seeing him naked somehow never ceased to make her feel like a nervous school girl with a crush. There wasn’t any other way to describe it; his faultless body intimidated her. People like that didn’t end up with people like her.

He raised an eyebrow at her. “What is it?”

“You’re perfect.”

“Stop it,” he said, tilting her head with his hands to rinse out the shampoo. She closed her eyes, focusing on his gentle touch. “No one’s perfect.”

“You are,” she whispered. Water trickled down her face and into her mouth.

“Then you are, too.”

Wet lips reached down to meet her slightly open mouth. Nicki got her good hand around the back of Tyler’s neck and pulled him closer to her. When she felt herself getting heated up, she released her hold and pulled away. She tried to squeeze the water out of her eyes before opening them.

Nicki wanted to tell him that she was far from perfect. She could sit down and recite a list of every flaw she had. But she thought back to everything he’d said to her. It was time to start accepting his compliments, even if they weren’t accurate.

Neither of them spoke as he turned her around again and squeezed the excess water out of her hair. It amazed Nicki that he would know to do that. It wasn’t like he had a lot of hair to wash. She came to the conclusion that he watched her a lot more closely than she previously assumed.

Chills raced through her as she felt Tyler’s hands spread conditioner through her hair. The coldness of the cream raised goose bumps on her skin. Once he finished, he let his hands slide down to her shoulders. Soft fingers massaged her neck and traps. Nicki sighed and rolled her shoulders to meet him.

“Why are you so good to me?” she asked, curious to see how he would respond.

“Don’t you remember the last time we had this conversation? Because you deserve it. And don’t tell me that you don’t, and don’t ask me to stop. It’s never happening.”

The sureness in his voice brought tears to her eyes. His dedication to her was unfathomable. Nicki was just as dedicated, but she never thought someone else would be capable of that level of devotion.

“You leave this in, right?”

Nicki nodded, hoping he wouldn’t ask her to turn around again. She didn’t want him to see her crying. Like clockwork, his hands found their way to her wait and spun her around. His eyes hung on hers; he had noticed. To her surprise, Tyler didn’t say anything. Instead, he pressed his lips to her forehead.

She let her eyelids fall when he lingered there. Nicki didn’t know how long it would last, and she wanted to savor every second. She guessed that he was lost in thought. Her eyes remained closed when he finally pulled away, but popped open when she felt her hands on her skin. Tyler had picked up a bar of soap and was in the process of spreading the suds across her body.

Nicki met his gaze, and held it as he washed her. He knew that she usually used body wash and a bath pouf, but she didn’t question him. His hands felt much better than a bath pouf. Tyler’s hands were one of Nicki’s favorite things about him. They were so strong, but so gentle when they hit her skin. It was his hands that could give her the strength of iron if they wanted to, or make her legs turn to jello underneath her. She loved the way they felt when they were wrapped around her own hands, her tiny one somehow fitting perfectly into his huge one.

Tyler hesitated when he arrived at her chest. Nicki could tell that he was conflicted. To ease his struggle, she put her hand over his, guiding it to her breast. There was no reason that he should torture himself. He let out a small sigh, making Nicki smile. His remaining hand snaked up her body and positioned itself across from the other one.

She never let her eyes leave his. Tyler’s eyes were special. Besides the fact that they made her absolutely melt, they always reflected exactly what he was feeling. This time, however, Nicki couldn’t quite read them. There was something there that she had never seen before. He took his hands away and backed up a step, shaking his head.

“This isn’t going to end well,” he said, smiling a bit. “Here, let me get your back.”

Whatever Nicki had seen in his eyes a moment ago had vanished. She turned away from him again. She had so many questions; questions that she couldn’t ask him. His hands on her back made her momentarily forget everything that was running through her mind. When he stopped, she stepped under the water. Tyler helped rinse the conditioner out of her hair.

Before meeting him, Nicki never would have believed that Tyler could be so caring, so nurturing. She never would have believed anyone could be that way. She thought men like that only existed in her head.

“Anything else you need help with?” he asked, letting his hand rest on her neck.

“Getting dressed. It took me almost a half hour to get out of my clothes. Forget putting them on.”

Tyler smiled at her and reached to turn off the water. He grabbed a towel from underneath the sink and did his best to dry her off. She giggled watching him struggle.

“You’re too sweet, Ty.”

His face was serious when he spoke. “It’s my fault you can’t do this yourself.”

“You have to let that go, babe. It isn’t anyone’s fault. If you want to blame someone, blame Freddy. He’s the reason you woke up in the first place.”

Tyler tilted his head. “What was Freddy doing in there, anyways?”

Nicki laughed out loud. She had forgotten to tell him why she had been behind him in the first place.

“Well, I woke up and heard your stomach growling, so I made you grilled cheese. I came back into the room to wake you up so you could eat and you started like, cuddling with your pillow. It was so cute, Ty. So instead of waking you up I got behind you so I could snuggle you. Then you took my arm and started hugging that, and you were being all precious. Freddy happened to walk in and I told him to take pictures. I think that’s what woke you up. I haven’t even seen the pictures yet.”

“Are you serious? That’s what happened?!”

Nicki giggled again. “Uh huh. Tyler, I know you don’t want to believe it but you are pretty much the cutest thing ever.”

He stared at her. “Fine, you’re the sexiest, cutest thing ever.”

Tyler finally gave in and a smile broke out on his face.

“We should get you dressed. My family will be here any minute.”

Nicki had forgotten that his family was coming down. She started to become excited as the realization set in of what was going on. Her boyfriend was playing for the Stanley Cup that night. It felt surreal. Nicki could feel the expression on her face changing. She was giddy with enthusiasm.

“Let’s go then! I wanna wear your jersey.”

The smile remained on Tyler’s face. “Now? There’s still like seven hours until the game.”

“So? I want to wear it.”

She watched as the look returned to his eyes. They softened in such a way that it made her dizzy. There was something he wasn’t telling her. Nicki placed her hand on his cheek and felt him lean into her palm. He closed his eyes and sighed. What was going on in his mind?

“Tyler, what – “

“I love you,” he spat out, cutting her off.

If he wanted to distract her, he had done a fine job. The way he said it tied knots in her stomach. His emotions leaked out through his words and shot straight into Nicki’s heart.

“I love you too,” she said, in a daze.

He guided her to their bedroom with a hand on her back. She could hear Tyler asking her what she wanted to wear, and could feel him dressing her. But her mind was on another planet. The door to their bedroom opened, finally shaking her out of her trance.

“Woah! Sorry,” Jackie said, turning her head away from them.

She walked in just as a nearly naked Tyler managed to get Nicki’s bra hooked around her back.

“No, it’s okay Jackie,” she said. “I hurt my arm; I can’t get dressed on my own. You can come in.”

Tyler’s mother had a way of making her feel perfectly comfortable, even in the most uncomfortable situations. Tyler stopped what he was doing to hug her.

“Hey, mom. I missed you.”

“I missed you too, honey. Nicki, what happened to you?”

Nicki giggled. “I’ll explain in a bit. It’s good to see you again. I’d hug you but…”

“No worries sweetie, I’ll get one later. I’m gonna leave you two alone,” she said, leaving the room.

“This is what, the third time she’s seen me half naked?”

Tyler laughed and got his new jersey out of the closet. The old one was covered with Nicki’s blood and had a gash where she’d gotten stabbed. They’d agreed to keep it. For some reason, both of them felt weird about throwing it away.

“I know you aren’t going to like this, but I think it’s gonna be the easiest if you put the sling on under the jersey.”

“So I’m gonna look like I’m missing an arm?”

“Yeah, kinda.”

Nicki sighed. Sometimes she wished she could live in a plastic bubble. Tyler helped her sit up and got her arm into the sling. The pain had already noticeably subsided. She hoped it wouldn’t be too much longer before it healed. He brought the jersey down over her head, and she stuck her right arm through the sleeve.

An “Aw” escaped Tyler’s lips. Nicki felt herself blushing. She probably looked like a goon.

“Shut up,” she said, flapping her loose sleeve in his face.

“It was a good aw. You’re adorable.”

Her blush deepened. Tyler leaned in and kissed each of her cheeks.

“I hope you never stop doing that,” he admitted.

Nicki wasn’t sure how to respond. “Will you put my necklace on for me?”

Tyler nodded and grabbed the box off of their dresser. He’d gotten a lot better at helping her with jewelry. He draped it around her neck and fastened the clasp, running his fingers along the thin chain. Nicki shivered.

“I’m just gonna do my makeup,” she said. “Get dressed. I’ll meet you out there.”

** * * * *

Tyler put on his best suit. He didn’t bother styling his hair; it had grown long and unruly along with his shaggy playoff beard. He preferred his hair on the shorter side, but Nicki was slowly convincing him otherwise. The longer his hair got, the more she played with it. He had to admit, he understood why she liked when people played with hers so much. It felt amazing. And it drove him wild when she pulled it.

He felt heat underneath his belt. Tyler tried to distract himself with thoughts of the game. He needed to stay focused. A lot more was riding on this game than just winning the cup. His entire future was at stake.

When he walked into the living room, he was bombarded by a hug from Cassidy.

“Hey Cass,” he said, chuckling. She was always so happy to see him.

Candace approached him next. She didn’t say anything besides hello, but he knew there was a lot more that she would have liked to say. Her hug was different than usual, more meaningful. Tyler got the feeling it had something to do with him giving her permission to talk to Brad. Since then, neither she nor Brad had brought it up. He was glad for that.

Lastly, Jim shook his hand. Tyler was surprised he came, but humbled. Jim always treated him like a son.

“Evaline, can you do me that favor now?” Tyler called down the hallway.

Freddy bounced out of his room with Evaline. They had apparently already greeted Tyler’s family. Freddy gave Tyler a pat on the shoulder and stood next to him, watching Evaline make her way down the hallway to Tyler’s room.

He and Evaline had arranged a plan to get Nicki out of the apartment for a moment so that Tyler could break the news to his family. He knew the longer he put it off, the worse it would be. Evaline came back out moments later with Nicki.

Candace and Cassidy ran up to her to hug her.

“Guys, careful, okay? She hurt her arm.”

Tyler knew that he could be a little over protective sometimes. He didn’t care. If that’s what it took to keep Nicki safe and healthy, so be it. Once they let go of her and she said hi to Jim, Nicki looked at Tyler.

“I’m just gonna help Evy with something real quick. I’ll be right back.”

He nodded and smiled at her. He felt a little guilty for going behind her back, but it would ruin everything if she found out. It was okay for her to wonder, nothing more. When the girls left, he looked at his family.

“Alright,” he said firmly. He needed to stand his ground. “I’m going to tell you guys something. You have to promise me two things.”

“What is it?” his mother asked eagerly.

“Mom. I’m serious. You too, guys. You have to promise that one, you won’t freak out. And two, you have to make absolutely sure that Nicki doesn’t find out. I can’t tell you how important it is that she doesn’t know.”

“Tyler, for God’s sake, we promise. Just tell us!”

“I’m gonna…” he rubbed the back of his neck and glanced down at the ground. “Propose.”

He braced himself for the shrieking. When he didn’t hear anything, he looked up. They were all staring at him.

“Honey, for the first time in my life, I’m speechless.”

Tyler started to get nervous. He wasn’t expecting them to react this way.

“What? Wait. Why?”

Finally tears began to fall down her face. She hugged him around the waist.

“I never thought I’d actually get to hear you say that,” she sobbed. When she pulled away, she kept her hands on his waist, something she always did when she was about to give him a speech. “Besides the days when the three of you were born, this is the happiest day of my life. Sweetie, all a mother can do is raise her children the best she can and hope that someday they can have a good life of their own. We always knew you were going to be a star. People have been telling us that since day one. But, sweetie, I worried about you. Your heart has always been in the right place. It’s just the girls you seemed to gravitate towards were never the marrying type, and let’s face it. You’re an attractive, wealthy, twenty-two year old boy in one of the youngest cities in the country. Honey, I’m so proud of you. You’re a lot more grown up that I’ve been giving you credit for.”

“I don’t feel very grown up right now. You don’t think I’m too young?”

She placed one of her hands on his cheek. “Who’s to say how young is too young? Tyler, I’m your mother. I know that you would never do this if you weren’t one hundred percent sure about it.”

“Wait… so… YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED?” Cassidy screamed. Tyler wondered why it took her so long to freak out. He shushed her, paranoid that Nicki could be right outside the door.

“I don’t know, Cass. It depends on what she says.”

“When?” asked Candace.

Tyler sighed. “I wanted to do it tonight, after the game. Or whenever we win, if we do. But I can’t because of her arm. I think I’ve got something else planned. I’ll tell you all about it later. Mom, you need to stop crying. She’ll be back any second. Seriously, if you guys love me, you won’t let her know. And if she asks, pretend you don’t know anything about it. I’m begging you.”

** * * * *

“You are so handsome,” Nicki said, running her fingers down the length of his tie. She giggled. “I can’t stop looking at you.”

“Look all you want.”

Tyler smiled at her. That smile would be the death of her someday. He took advantage of her weakness and leaned in to kiss her.

“I really gotta go,” he said when he pulled away. He gave her a last peck on the lips. “Wish me luck.”

“Good luck, Ty.” She stood on her toes to whisper in his ear. “If you need motivation, just think about the things I’m gonna do to you tonight if you win.”

Nicki watched as his face twisted. He opened his mouth to speak, but decided against it and walked out the door.

“What in the world did you just say to him?” asked Candace.

“Oh, I just tried to give him a little motivational speech,” she responded, giggling.

“I don’t want to know.”

“No, you don’t.”

Cassidy popped her head around the corner. “So what are we gonna do til six thirty?”

“Well, there are a couple of things I wanted to do. You guys up for going shopping?”

“I can’t believe you really just asked me that,” Candace said. Cassidy started to laugh. “When are we going?”

“We can go now if you want. Wanna ask your mom if she’s coming with us?”

Jackie told the girls to go on their own. Nicki was excited to have a chance to bond with Tyler’s sisters. In her experience, there was no better way to bond with another girl than shopping.

** * * * *

“Nicki, you look beautiful! What in the world made you go out and do that?” exclaimed Jackie when she and the girls walked into their suite at the Garden.

“I wanted to do something to surprise Tyler. Do you think he’ll like it?”

Nicki, Candace, and Cassidy had spent a majority of the afternoon shopping around for the perfect outfits for that night, in case the boys pulled out a win. They expected to be at parties until the sun came up. And it would be the first time Candace was going to see Brad in months. Once they had finally decided on something and bought it, Nicki brought up the idea that had been brewing in her head.

For a while, she had wanted to change up her look. At first, she thought that a haircut would suffice. As she browsed through different styles on the internet, she suddenly wondered what she would look like as a blonde. It was Candace who had really convinced her to go through with it. She had gotten her long hair trimmed only an inch, and asked for highlights instead of hair dye. Nicki didn’t think she would be a very attractive bleach blonde, and wanted it to look natural. She’d even gotten it curled for the festivities that might have been taking place. The result was a full head of shimmering, golden curls.

“Sweetie, he is going to love it. He’s always had a thing for blondes. I’d think it’s because he likes his mother’s hair so much,” she joked.

Nicki giggled. She was exuberant, and couldn’t hold in her excitement. She couldn’t wait to watch Tyler.

** * * * *

It seemed as though every person in the entire TD Garden was holding their breath. The game had been tied at three since the second period. They were now about to enter their second overtime. Nicki watched as the players stretched their tired muscles on the ice, trying to stay in it physically. The fire that usually burned underneath their skates had been put out. She imagined that eighty minutes of the hardest played hockey she’d ever seen would do that to you.

Nicki scanned the ice for Tyler. She found him next to Chara. It looked like they were trying to talk about something. Tyler hadn’t scored the entire game. For some reason, he’d taken on the position of the team’s leading assister. He had gotten the assist on two out of their three goals, and probably should have had at least two more. The calls and the shots were just not going their way.

And the Blackhawks were not about to give up the cup so easily. They’d had a record setting season, and weren’t going down without a fight. They were being overly physical, knocking around the entire Bruins team. Even Tyler had taken a terrifying hit.

The players began to head back to their benches, leaving behind the starting lines. Tyler looked up in her direction and she smiled. Nicki had no idea if he could actually see her, never mind make out the expression on her face.

The puck dropped and Patrice won the face off, passing it quickly to Tyler on his right. Seeing him glide across the ice exhilarated her. When he played, a force radiated from him. His strength shined through as he raced up the ice, passing everyone in his path. Brad came up on his left, wide open. Nicki watched anxiously as he rocketed a pass to Brad right in front of the net. Brad attempted to tap it through the five hole, and it looked like he had succeeded.

The refs called no goal. The Garden exploded with boos and bullshits. The replay on the jumbotron showed that they made the right call. The puck hadn’t crossed the line. Nicki dropped her head. At this point, she just wanted it to be over.

Five minutes into the period, Claude called a time out.

“This has to be the single most stressful thing that I’ve ever watched,” Freddy said from Nicki’s right.

“I’ll second that,” she said, trying to catch her breath. She hadn’t realized that she’d been holding it.

“At least Ty’s playing well,” Jackie added.

“I don’t know what I’ll do if they don’t win,” Nicki admitted. The thought of what Tyler might be like after they lost was too much for her to bear.

“At least it’s not the end if they lose tonight,” Candace said, trying to cheer her up. She was right. They would still have at least one more chance.

Silence fell as the players retreated back to the ice. Milan’s line was out. They hadn’t been the best at producing goals that season, but each and every one of them had their hearts in this game. Nicki had faith in them.

They won the faceoff again, this time thanks to David. He got the puck between the legs of Milan, who tried to take it up the ice. Slowed by exhaustion, he didn’t have the energy necessary to burst towards the goal, and he dropped a pass back to David.

Nicki chewed on her nails as they went back and forth between each other, trying to find a chance to score. David hummed the puck towards the goal, but Patrick Kane got in front of it, stopping it with his thigh. The pain stunned him for a moment, and out of nowhere, Chara stole the puck from under him and slapped it with a frightening amount of force. It went wide and bounced off of Milan’s skate.

Right into the goal.

The buzzer sounded and the music played. The building erupted. Nicki jumped out of her seat and hugged the person nearest to her.

“When can we go down there?” Nicki asked Jackie.

“We have to wait until they’re done with the cup. Someone will come up and get us.”

She nodded. She just wanted to see Tyler. Everyone in their suite pressed against the glass to watch them celebrate. Nicki could feel the butterflies in her stomach; everything was so surreal. She could only imagine what was going through Tyler’s head.

** * * * *

Tyler watched as Chara received the cup. Only three years ago, they had been in the same position, doing the same thing. It hadn’t even sunk in yet. It felt like they were just going to move on to the next series. But deep in his gut, he knew that it was over. He knew that they had won.

Chara skated proudly around the rink, pumping the trophy in the air to the cheers of the fans. Last time, they had been in Vancouver when they won. Being on home ice was incredible. Hearing an entire city celebrating with them was elating. Tyler was about to look up to the suite where his family was when Chara skated in front of him, offering him the cup.

He couldn’t believe he was the second person to get it.

“Not me, not yet!” he screamed over the chanting that had started in the stands.

“We couldn’t have done this without you Segs! It’s your turn! Enjoy it!” he shouted.

Tyler laughed and accepted it, raising it above his head. The cheers that had been loud before became deafening. He heard people chanting his name. Tyler brought it down to his lips and let out a yell. He felt like he was dreaming as he skated across the ice, showcasing the cup for everyone to see. When he’d gotten his fill, he passed it off to Patrice.

“We did it, Segs!” he cried as he took the cup from his hands.

He barely had time to get his bearings. A group of teammates bombarded him, nearly knocking him over. Tyler laughed at the sheer impossibility. He had dreamed his whole life of winning a Stanley Cup. Now he had two in four years. He almost felt as though he didn’t deserve it. Dougie, Milan, and Brad surrounded him.

“We won the fucking Stanley Cup!”

Tyler laughed at Dougie’s excitement. He remembered what it had been like to win as a rookie. This time around, he appreciated it even more. Patrice handed the cup off to Brad and exchanged a hug with Tyler. When he skated away, a powerful arm came down around his shoulder.

“You know what this means, buddy,” Shawn said into his ear.

He was taken aback by Shawn’s enthusiasm. Apparently, he had gained a good amount of respect for Tyler since the previous night.

“Thanks, man, really. But we can talk about it later. Let’s fucking celebrate.”

** * * * *

“TYLER!” Nicki screamed as she sprinted down the hallway towards him.

Tyler pushed aside a few of the reporters and interviewers that were hounding him and caught her when she jumped on him. Nicki wrapped her one arm around his neck and crashed her lips against his.

“Congratulations. Ty, I’m so proud of you,” she said into his ear.

He hadn’t stopped smiling since the puck bounced off of Milan’s skate. Tyler hoisted her up and looked at her.

“What the hell did you do to your hair?!”

Nicki leaned back in his arms, looking hurt. “I did it for you. I thought you’d like it…”

“No,” he said, showering her with kisses. “I love it. You look gorgeous.”

She bit her lip as a smile spread across her face. He loved when she did that. Between her excitement and Tyler’s, he was having a hard time not getting down on one knee and asking her right there, with no ring, no nothing. For a moment, he seriously contemplated it. But he wanted it to be perfect. As enthralled as he was, it wasn’t the right time. She deserved her own moment; she shouldn’t have to share his.

“I guess I should let you talk to your family, huh?” she asked, trying to climb off of him. He let her down and watched her bounce down the hallway in search of the rest of his team.

“DOUGIE!”

Tyler laughed. It amazed him how much she loved his team, and how much they loved her.

“Sweetie, I’m so proud of you! I can’t believe you boys did it again,” his mother said as she hugged him. When she pulled away she added, “So that’s it, then. It’s going to happen.”

He nodded. “Looks that way.”

“Ty, I’ll hug you later when you’re not all sweaty and gross.”

“Yeah, same.”

“Wow, thanks guys.”

Freddy was up next. “I don’t get you guys. I think hugs are the best when someone is sweaty and gross. Congrats, man. I can’t even imagine.”

When Freddy backed away, Evaline came up to him and hugged him. Her tiny arms couldn’t even fit halfway around his pads.

“I can hear the bells,” she teased. Tyler chuckled.

“What bells?”

Tyler spun around. “Nicki! Shit. Where’d you come from?” He felt his cheeks getting hot. Luckily, he was already red in the face from the game. For the first time, he stopped smiling.

“I said hi to everyone so I came back!”

Her peppiness brought the smile right back. He picked her up bridal style. Might as well get the practice, right? Nicki left a huge, loud kiss on his cheek. She seemed as excited as he was. It made him feel unstoppable.

Claude stepped out into the hallway. He’d already given them a small speech. There really wasn’t much to say.

“Alright boys! You’ve already heard everything I have to say to you. Go enjoy yourselves tonight. We leave for Florida at ten tomorrow. If you think we’re waiting more than five minutes for any one of you, have fun while we’re in Disney World.” His voice boomed through the hallway, over the heads of all the players and their family members.

“Oh my God! You’re going to Disney World! I forgot about that!” Nicki shrieked.

Tyler frowned at her. “You mean we’re going to Disney World.”

Her eyes got wide. “I GET TO COME WITH YOU?!”

“Obviously! I wouldn’t go without you,” he said, chuckling.

Nicki’s big eyes glossed over. “I’ve never been to Disney World.”

“You’ve never been to Disney World?!” asked Cassidy, shocked.

Nicki shook her head. “Nope. My parents didn’t like Florida so they never took me.”

Tyler found himself pitying her. Disney World was one of his best memories with his family as a kid.

“You’re gonna love it,” he said into her ear.

She leaned her head against him and he turned to kiss her cheek. Tyler was going to make sure he upgraded to a suite in their hotel. He got the feeling they would be spending a heck of a lot of time in their room. Nicki stole the hat off of his head and put it on her own.

“Well go get showered! It’s time to go out and celebrate!”