Wrecked

“Chicago is my city, see.” My best friend, Jackie Bianco said in an old timey gangster voice. “If youse even so much as think of messin’ wit me or my gang again, you’ll be sleepin’ with the fishes.”

“Shut up, please?” I smirked down at her, watching her take a puff off of her imaginary cigar.

“Come on Mackenzie!” She sighed, flicking her fake stogie out into oncoming traffic on Michigan Avenue. “Get pumped, girl! This is the moment I’ve been dreaming of since we were in 8th grade. You and me and the city I was born and raised in!”

“I’m pumped, Jack!” I said giving her a small nudge. “I’m also just a little overwhelmed. I’ve never been to a big city. Give me at least a day to get my feet back underneath me.”

Jackie, whom I referred to as “Jack”, had been my best friend since she moved to my hometown of Belgrade, Montana when we were in the 8th grade.

We had both recently graduated from Montana State University and were ready to make our mark on the world.

“If anyone knows about a cultural and climate shock it’s me, Mack.” She said returning my nudge, that I’m sure was aimed at my ribs but landed just above my hip. Our height difference always made things like that a little trickier.

“True, true.” I sighed. “Was it an easy adjustment?”

“Yeah, because I had you.” She smiled up at me. “And you’ve got me now, so you’ll be golden.”

We walked in silence for a bit. I took in my surroundings; I had never seen buildings that were so tall or that amount of traffic.

When I finally snapped out of my haze, I realized where Jackie had been leading me the whole time.

“The Blackhawks Store?” I asked, a smile creeping up my lips.

“Duh!” She giggled. “I thought it was appropriate considering you’ll be working very closely with these yahoo’s soon.”

“Oh, god.” I smirked. “This is really happening, isn’t it?”

“It is!” She said excitedly, grabbing my arm and pulling through the doors. “Let’s see what you’ll be dealing with.”

Jackie and her family had basically become an extension of mine. They were the ones that introduced me to the Blackhawks. Jackie and I bonded over our love of hockey and being fans of the team.
As Jackie and I browsed the store, I looked over at my friend and realized just how lucky I was to have her.

Jackie stood about 5’4 and weighed around 110 pounds soaking wet. Her long black hair shined even in the darkest rooms. She had olive skin and bright brown eyes. She was most definitely Italian to the core.

I, on the other hand, was a giant compared to my friend. At 5’10, I was the second tallest girl in our graduating class. My dark brown hair and high cheekbones were the only indicators of my Indigenous ancestry. I wasn’t exactly pale, but I knew no matter how hard I tried, I would never be that golden brown Jackie always turned in the summer. I was curvy, which Jackie confessed was the one attribute of mine that she was slightly jealous of. I, on the other hand, coveted above all of my other features, my bright green eyes, which I inherited from my grandmother.

“What are you staring at you freak?” Jackie asked, twisting her eyebrows at me. “Do I have something on my face?”

“Can’t I just admire my friend?” I asked picking up a beanie and throwing it at her, trying to change the subject. “Look, it’s a Kaner beanie, especially made for you.”

“Well, here’s a Tazer keychain, just for you.” She smirked.

“Right.” I smiled, looking down at the keychain, pretending that I didn’t find the man in the picture very attractive. “At least he doesn’t look like a bridge troll, like your favorite.”

“Bridge troll!” She scoffed. “Kane is more like a garden gnome.”

“You said it.” I laughed. “Do you think that these guys are going to be nice or total assholes?”

“Honestly?” She asked a slight frown on her face. “I think they’re going to be a little bit of both and that it will really depend on who you’re dealing with. For the most part, I think you’ll be fine.”

“That’s sort of what I figured.” I sighed. “I’ve got a plan though.”

“Oh, really?” She asked, sidling up to me. “Do tell.”

“Well, maybe if I treat them like I treat my brothers?” I asked, with a shrug.

“Do you really think that that’s a good idea?” Jackie asked, raising her eyebrows.

“Not the name calling and beating each other up part, just the conversation part.” I explained. “Talk to them like I’ve known them forever and the friendly joking.”

“You and your brothers have never joked around in a friendly way.” She laughed. “I’ve been a witness to too many dead arms and wedgies to believe that.”

“Maybe I’ll talk to them like I talk to your brother?” I shrugged again. “Sam and I have had some pretty decent conversations.”

“Yeah, like the kind of conversation where my stupid ass older brother is desperate to get into your pants.” She said with obvious disgust in her voice.

“Oh, stop it.” I laughed as I gave her a little shove. “Even if that were true, it would never happen and you know it. Sam is like my 4th brother.”

“Yeah and you’re like his 2nd sister that he’s creepily in love with.” She muttered as she rounded the corner to the green screen photo booth. “Should we?”

“Um, duh.” I laughed and we proceeded to pose with virtual players and even coach Q.

After the photo session, we finally decided to call an Uber and make our way to Jackie’s Uncle Sal’s restaurant, “Sal’s Famous Italian Cuisine”.

“I can’t believe I’m going to be stuck working at Uncle Sal’s until I can find a real job.” Jackie huffed.

“Come on Jack, It won’t be that bad.” I said trying to hide my smile. “Uncle Sal is a total badass.”

“Mack, you and I both know that he’s more of a hard ass than a badass.” She said giving me a dirty look.

“It’s only for a little while.” I said, squeezing her arm, maybe a little harder than I should have.
“Ouch!” She squeaked. “Knock it off, man hands!”

I laughed as we pulled up to the small building that housed Uncle Sal’s restaurant. It was everything I imagined it to be. It was like a picture right out of a magazine from the 50’s.
We tipped our driver and I watched as Jackie flung the door open and marched inside.

“Uncle Sal!” She yelled. “We’re here!”

The entire restaurant stopped to look at us and we were quickly bum rushed. I had almost forgotten that nearly every member of the staff was related to Jackie in one way or another.

Hugs, kisses, and introductions were being passed out freely until a booming voice filled the entire room.

“Jack and Mack!” Uncle Sal, a large Italian man yelled over the crowd. “They’re here! My girls are here!”

He came barreling through the crowd and scooped Jackie and I up in his giant arms.

After what felt like an eternity, he set us down and started to fawn over us.

“Would you look at these girls?” He said holding his hands out for each one of us to take, and then proceeded to twirl us around. “They’re beauties, these girls! Beauties!”

“Thanks Uncle Sal.” We said in unison.

“Oh my little Jacqueline, you look so much like my wife, your Aunt Katherine, I could cry. God rest her soul.” He said frowning slightly, looking up to the ceiling.

“And you, Miss Mackenzie, who I brag about like you were my own.” He smirked, pinching my cheek roughly. “When are you going to marry my nephew and become an official part of the family?”

“When Satan himself rises from the depths of Hell and drags my ass back down there with him.” Jackie said, before I could answer.

“With a mouth like that, it won’t surprise me if it happens sooner than later.” Uncle Sal said, a smile playing on his lips. “Now, sit down and have something to eat. I’m sure your starving after that drive.”

Before we could object, plates full of pasta, salads, chicken cutlets, and you name it were piled onto our table.

“Now, ladies.” Uncle Sal said, pulling up a chair. “Tell me about your big plans for this new adventure you’re on.”

“Mack, go first.” Jackie said between slurps as she started to do work on a plate of spaghetti.

“Well, I got a job working for the Blackhawks in their social media department.” I said, seeing the confused expression on Uncle Sal’s face, I knew I would have to elaborate. “Basically, I’ll be helping with their social media accounts. Posting things, and replying to fans. I’ll also be monitoring things that the players post.”

“Like on the Twitter, and the Facebook?” Uncle Sal asked, pretending to be up with the times.

“Exactly.” I smiled.

“Me, on the other hand, am going to be slaving away in this palace of lunacy.” Jackie said dramatically.

“Shut up, Jack.” I laughed, as I threw a napkin at her face. “This is a great place to work, right Uncle Sal?”

“In my opinion, it’s the best!” He laughed.

“Well, it’ll only be temporary.” Jackie said finally taking the hint and wiping her chin.

“Hopefully I’ll find a job where I can use my photo journalism degree. Then it’s see ya, wouldn’t wanna be ya, Uncle Sal.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” Uncle Sal smirked, ruffling Jackie’s hair. “You girls dig in, I’ve got to get back to work.”

After we ate more than two women ever should, we decided to head back to our apartment and start the arduous task of unpacking and organizing.

We were very lucky and landed a two bedroom for a very reasonable rate, on the South Loop.

“I can’t believe how tiny this place is.” I sighed as I remembered all of the furniture I had to leave back in Montana. “I feel like my room is the size of Harry Potter’s closet.”

“Don’t be so dramatic.” Jackie said, throwing a dish towel at my head. “You’re going to have to get used to sharing space. You’re living in a city now. People and things are going to be all up in your grill all day every day.”

“Well.” I said with a mocking tone. “You know how bad I am at sharing.”

Jackie just laughed.

We ended up spending the rest of the day turning our little apartment into a home.

“What time do you go in tomorrow?” Jackie asked, mouthful of leftovers from Uncle Sal’s.

“I have to be there to read and sign stuff by 8.” I said, trying not to look at the train wreck that was happening in Jackie’s mouth. “You chew like a frickin’ caveman.”

“What’s your point?” She asked, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.

“My point is, please don’t ever change.” I smirked, patting her on the head.

“So, are you going to grab butts and stuff with any of the players?” She asked.

“Well, I’m assuming that sexual harassment is frowned upon.” I laughed.

“Good point.” She said, taking my plate and walking it into our neatly organized, but tiny, kitchen.

“Are you excited to work at Uncle Sal’s?” I asked jokingly.

“Shut your stupid mouth.” She sneered.

As the night began to wear down, my anxiety started to set in.

“Jack, come and help me pick out an outfit for tomorrow.” I said suddenly, springing up from the couch.

“Okay, weirdo.” She said giving me a sideways glance. “Don’t you have a uniform?”

“Kinda.” I shrugged, rummaging through my suitcases. “It’s basically business casual, but I’ll be given some shirts.”

“So wear black pants, those cute grey ankle boots, and that maroon shirt.” She said, leaning over me and tossing all of the items she selected onto my bed.

“That’s perfect.” I said in awe of her fashion abilities.

“You’re a hopeless loser when it comes to clothes, Mack.” She chuckled, walking out of my room and into her own. “Get some rest. You’re going to have to leave pretty early.”

I laid down on my bed and tossed and turned, trying to plan exactly how to get to the rink the next morning.

After what seemed like hours, I finally drifted off into a restless sleep.

“Balls!” I squealed, when my alarm went off at 5:30 am. That was a time of day that I had rarely been awake for since I had moved off of my parent’s ranch at 18.

I jumped out of bed and went directly into the bathroom and got in the shower.

As I went through the motions or showering, I tried to talk myself out of being so nervous.

“Mackenzie, you can do this.” I said under my breath. “You’re smart and well trained. This will be an amazing job and you’ll be great at it.”

“Yeah, Mackenzie.” I heard from right outside the bathroom door. “You’ve got this!”

“What are you doing out there you god damn creep?” I laughed, as Jackie made fart noises outside the door.

“Giving my girl some affirmation!” She laughed, as I heard her travel down the hall. “I’m making coffee!”

After my shower, I put on a scant amount of makeup, which was way more than I usually wore, and got dressed.

“Lookin’ good, dude.” Jackie said, taking in my outfit and fishtail braid.

“Thanks, dude.” I said pouring myself a cup of coffee.

“Did you GPS how to get to the rink?” She asked.

“Yeah.” I said, swallowing back my nerves. “Like, three weeks ago.”

“Of course you did.” Jackie chuckled. “Do you know what time you’ll be off?”

“No idea.” I said, taking the last swig of my coffee. “You’ll be the first to know.”

I grabbed my purse, the lunch I had packed of Sal’s leftovers, and headed out the door.

“Love you!” Jackie shouted after me. “Good luck!”

“Love you too!” I shouted back.

I made my way down the stairs and to my car, that we had been lucky enough to get garage parking for.

I turned on my GPS and started the journey to the MB Ice Arena.

As I made my through the city, I ended up finding my exit and successfully merged into my lane. I started to feel excitement creep through the nerves the closer I got to the rink.

“This will be good.” I said, as I turned up the Childish Gambino song that was playing on the stereo.

Suddenly, I saw a big black SUV come flying up beside me, I had just enough time to notice that the driver was on his phone, before the impact.

My car shuddered and went flying into the guardrail. I could hear glass breaking and the crunch of metal.

It all seemed like a dream as I came slamming to a stop. I only realized that it wasn’t, when my eyes finally adjusted and I saw all of the glass on my black slacks.

I gave myself a moment to get my barring’s before I attempted to open the door of my now totaled car. I tried and failed to open the door a few times, when I finally came to the
conclusion that it wasn’t going to budge.

“Miss?” I heard from behind me. “Are you okay?”

“I think so.” I said, trying to turn around a look at the person who was talking to me.

“Take it easy.” He said in a calm voice, trying to wiggle my door until it opened. “I’m going to try and get you out of here, okay?”

“Okay.” I mumbled trying to calm my shaking hands so I could unbuckle my seatbelt. “Is the other guy okay?”

“I’m assuming so, since he took off.” The man said, finally getting my door open and looking me in the eyes.

“Jonathan Toews!?” I screeched, much louder than I should have been capable of after what had just happened.

“Hi.” He smirked. “Come on, let’s get you out of here. The car bounced back into the road.”

“I’m supposed to be posting pictures and videos of you.” I said, stupidly, feeling the effects of the wreck.

“That’s weird.” He smiled, taking my arm and leading me over to his shiny, silver, Mercedes. “Take a seat. I already called 911.”

He sat down in the driver’s seat and gave me the opportunity to admire the outline of his jaw.
“That could cut glass.” I muttered.

“What could cut glass?” He said, looking over and smiling kindly at me.

“Your face.” I said, before I could stop myself.

“I think you might have hit your head a little harder than I thought.” He said with a slight chuckle.

“Me too.” I mumbled, feeling dizzy.

“Let’s keep you talking.” He said turning in his seat to face me. “What’s your name?”

“Mackenzie.” I answered, trying not to stare at his kind brown eyes.

“And you’re from Montana?” He asked.

“How the hell did you know that?” I asked, taken aback.

“Your license plate.” He chuckled.

“Oh, duh.” I said, shrinking in my seat.

“Are you just visiting?” He asked, smiling sweetly, trying to make me feel more comfortable.

“I moved here for a job.” I answered, feeling a trickle of blood roll down my face.

“Doing?” He asked, not fazed, handing me a napkin.

“Working for the Blackhawks.” I said, wiping at my face.

“Really?” He asked, taking my hand and placing it and the napkin on the cut. “Put a little pressure on it.”

“Yeah.” I said, enjoying the warmth of his grip. “I’m going to be working in the Digital Media department. Today is my first day.”

“So you weren’t kidding earlier?” He chuckled again. “I can call and let them know what happened.”

“What time is it?” I asked, suddenly remembering that I was on my way to work before everything happened.

“Don’t worry.” He smiled reassuringly, placing a hand over mine. “I’ll call right now.”

As Jonathan pulled out his phone and started to describe the events to whoever was on the other end, the ambulance and police showed up.

“It’s all taken care of.” He said as he jumped out of the car, waving the officers over to his car.

We both gave our statements and the paramedics checked me out. They determined that I was fine, other than a couple of scrapes, bruises, and a slight concussion.

After I retrieved my belongings out of my car, I tried to call Jackie and was sent straight to voicemail.

“Great.” I mumbled, using my phone to check my bandages.

“Do you need a ride?” Jonathan asked, walking up behind me.

“Yes, please.” I said, trying not to cry as I watched my poor little car get loaded onto the back of the tow truck. “Rest in peace, Kanye.”

“Kanye?” He asked. “Is that your car’s name?”

“It was.” I said sadly.

“RIP Kanye.” Jonathan said trying not to laugh while putting a comforting arm around me. “Where am I taking you to?”

“Can you take me to work?” I asked, leaning into him gratefully.

“Really?” He asked, raising his eyebrows at me.

“Yeah.” I said assuredly, moving away from him. I realized how comfortable I was and knew it wasn’t a good thing.

“You’re tough as hell.” He laughed as we both headed back to his car.

I tried calling Jackie several more times to no avail as Jonathan drove toward the rink.

“Are you sure you’re okay to work?” He asked, clearly concerned.

“I swear I’m fine.” I smiled over at him. “I’m a ranch kid and a former rodeo kid. This is nothing.”

“I trust you then.” He smiled back, pulling into the parking lot. “Do you need to call your family? I can let them know that you’ll be right in.”

“I’m going to wait to call until I’m home.” I said, noting how sweet he was. “My dad is a little dramatic sometimes.”

“Gotcha.” He smiled, knowingly. “Daddy’s girl?”

“Absolutely.” I smirked. “Even if I didn’t want to be.”

“Follow me.” He said waiting for me to catch up to him, as he walked toward the building. “I’ll show you where to go.”

“Thank you so much for everything.” I said, stepping into stride with him.

“No problem.” He said, giving me a genuine smile. “You just have to promise not to post any stupid pictures of me online.”

“Cross my heart.” I said, smiling back.

Jonathan waved a card in front of a black box by a side door and walked us into the building. Everything was brand new. It even smelled new.

“Here, I’ll take you to Leah’s office.” He said pointing down a long hallway.

I already knew who Leah was. I had spoken to her on the phone a few times and had even flown out to Chicago for a face to face interview.

“It’s right here.” He said pointing a door. “I can give you ride home after practice if you need one.”

“You’re seriously the nicest person ever.” I said, hoping that it didn’t sound as stupid as I thought it did. “But I’m sure my roommate will be able to come and get me.”

“Just let me know if she can’t.” He said, squeezing my shoulder.

“Thanks.” I smiled up at him, almost feeling like the heart eyed emoji.

He gave me a small wave and headed back down the hall.

I took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

“Come on in, Codi.” Leah said as she opened the door. “Are you okay?”

“I’ll be fine.” I said as she surprised me with a hug.

“When they told me what had happened, I couldn’t believe it!” She said, holding me out at arm’s length, checking me over. “Are you sure you don’t want to go home and get some rest?”

“I’m fine.” I said, smiling down at Leah, noting that she seemed super motherly. “I promise I’ll let you know if I need to go home.”

“Okay.” She said with a sympathetic frown. “We’ll get your paperwork and stuff done and then I’ll let you go a little early. How does that sound?”

“Perfect.” I said, smiling reassuringly at her. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, kiddo.” She said walking around her desk and grabbing out a binder and a packet. “Have a seat and we’ll get this paperwork out of the way.”

She handed me the binder, which had the Blackhawks symbol on it and said “Organization Standards and Guidelines”.

“This is yours to keep.” She said, flipping to the first page. “I usually make people read through it on the first day, but you and I kind of went over it on the phone.”

“I’ll go through it at home tonight.” I said, in an attempt to let her know that I was willing to step up to the task even though I wasn’t feeling the greatest.

“Perfect.” She beamed at me. “Let’s get this paperwork out of the way.”

I signed and initialed page after page.

“Are your eyes crossed yet?” Leah asked, nudging me with her shoulder.

“They’re getting there.” I said, trying not to let her know that my head was actually starting to hurt.

“Well, that should do it for today as far as paperwork goes.” She assured me, waving me toward the door. “Let’s go out and meet your coworkers and the boys.”

“First, let me get you a jacket, some shirts, and a phone.” Leah said, opening a closet door and handing me a black neoprene jacket, emblazoned with the Blackhawks symbol, the word “Staff”, and my name on it. She also handed me a couple of long sleeved and short sleeved shirts. The phone she gave me was a brand new iPhone 8. “The phone is already programmed and ready for you to use. It’s locked to only be able to make phone calls, text, and use the Blackhawk’s social media accounts. No personal use, please and thank you.”

“Got it.” I smiled at her, secretly excited that my phone was gold.

“ You’re familiar with Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook, I hope?” She asked with a smirk, leading me up the hallway Jonathan had brought me down.

“Of course.” I chuckled. “How many people will I be working with?”

“There are two other girls that you’ll be working with directly.” She said as we walked by the rink. I saw all of the players in their practice jerseys lined up listening to Coach Q. “Ashley and Brandy will be your teammates.”

We went around the glass and right in front of the goal stood two girls with phones out.

“Ladies.” Leah said, walking up to them. “This is our new teammate, Mackenzie Chambers.”
“Mackenzie!” Ashley, I assumed based on the name on her jacket, said walking up with an extended hand. “I’m Ashley, it’s so nice to meet you.”

We shook hands and I noticed how bright and shiny her teeth and hair were.

“Nice to meet you too.” I smiled back, as Brandy approached, she seemed a little hesitant.

“I’m Brandy.” She muttered, shaking my hand stiffly.

“Nice to meet you.” I said, noting that it may take some time for her to warm up to me.

“I’m going to take Mackenzie over to meet the boys while they’re all still lined up.” Leah said, grabbing my arm. “We’ll be right back.”

“You can just do that?” I asked, in awe, as we made our way around to the bench. “Interrupt them?”

“I don’t look at it as interrupting.” She explained. “We’re all part of a team and you’ll be working very closely with some of the players at times. They need to know who you are.”

“Oh, okay.” I mumbled, feeling the nerves crawl up my back.

When we got to the door to the ice, Leah waved over at Coach Q to get his attention.

“Joel, may I interrupt for a second?” She said confidently.

“Anything for you, Leah.” He said, looking at her with what was sort of a smile. “Boys, Leah has something to say.”

With that, all eyes were on us. All of my favorite players were looking at me, and the pressure was almost too much to bear.

“Hi guys!” Leah said confidently. “Please join me in welcoming our newest teammate.”

My throat felt like it was closing up, like I would never be able to speak again.

“Go ahead and introduce yourself.” Leah whispered to me. “Tell them where you’re from and what you’ll be doing here.”

“Hi.” I said, trying and failing to swallow. “I’m Mack, I mean Mackenzie, and I’m from Montana. I’m going to be working in the Digital Media department, specifically working on social media content.”

“So, get used to seeing that pretty face!” Leah said, chuckling. “She’s going to be part of our traveling team as well.

“Mack Attack!” I heard from the front line of the players, as number 88 looked me right in the eye. “Welcome to the team!”

Patrick Kane started hitting his stick on the ice, prompting the others to do the same.
He then tried to start a “Mack Attack” chant, but failed miserably.

I could feel my face turning a bright red when Jonathan caught my eye.

“Sorry, he’s an idiot.” He mouthed, with a small wave.

I waved back, as the players started to skate away and start practice.

“I’m glad that you and Jonathan have already met.” Leah said, knocking me out of my stupor. “He’s the nicest guy.”

“He’s great.” I said, as we walked back over to where Brandy and Ashley were standing. “I just can’t believe how lucky I am that he was the one that stopped.”

“You were.” She smiled at me rubbing my back. “I’m glad you’re okay.”

“Thank you.” I smiled, appreciating her sincerity. “Me too.”

When we got back over to Brandy and Ashley, they were both looking down at their phones, again.
“Ladies, I’m going to let you all know right now what the new plan is.” Leah said, drawing everyone’s attention.

“What do you mean?” Brandy asked, very suspicious.

I looked up at her furrowed brows and knew she was not one who liked change. When I glanced at Ashley, she had a guilty look on her face.

“Well, Brandy.” Leah started. “Ashley has decided to take a new position in our department and will no longer be working on our social media team. Mackenzie is her replacement.”

“You have to be kidding me, Ash!” Brandy spat. “How long have you been keeping this from me?”

“I swear, I’ve only known for about a month.” Ashley said, her smile not as nearly bright as it was earlier.

“A month?” Brandy fumed at Ashley. “I can’t believe you.”

“Calm down, please.” Leah said sternly. “Ashley will be working with us for another couple of days to help Mackenzie get adjusted and then the two of you will be working as a unit.”

We all nodded in unison.

“I’m sending Mackenzie home.” She continued. “As you can see, she’s not feeling well.”

“I can stay.” I said, hoping she would at least let me learn something about my new phone.

“Honey, I appreciate your excitement, but I’d rather have you back tomorrow when you’re feeling better.” Leah said smiling sympathetically at me.

“I understand.” I said, smiling back. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“8 o’clock again.” She smiled. “Rest up.”

I waved to everyone and headed out toward the parking lot, they didn’t seem to notice as they were all in a very intense discussion.

I glanced over at the rink as I walked by and saw Jonathan skating toward me and was truly surprised when he stopped.

“Are you going home?” He asked, his voice muffled through the glass.

“Yeah. I got the boot.” I said, looking at him in awe.

“They fired you?” He said, shocked.

“No.” I said shaking my head. “Sorry, she’s just sending me home for the day.”

“Give me 45 minutes and I can give you a ride home.” He said as other players whipped past him.

“It’s really okay.” I smiled shyly at him. “I think I should be able to get ahold of my roommate or take an Uber.”

I pulled out my phone and saw that I hadn’t had any missed calls or texts.

“Go take a seat.” He smirked at the look on my face.

Just then, Coach Q blew his whistle and pointed at Jonathan.

“Got to go.” He said skating off. “45 minutes.”

I was so embarrassed. My first day on the job and I was having to be rescued twice by one of the best players in the NHL. Most people would have counted themselves as lucky, but I looked at it as being a burden.

I sat on the bleachers and watched practice. I tried to get ahold of Jackie several more times to no avail.

“I thought Leah told you to go home.” Brandy said, looking up at me.

“I’m waiting for my ride.” I said trying to figure out if she was being a bitch or not. “My car got totaled this morning. Hence, the bandages.”

“I heard Jon rescued you and gave you a ride here.” She said, giving me a strange look. She seemed bitter.

“I guess you could say he rescued me.” I said, returning the glance. “He definitely helped me out.”

“Who’s your ride home?” She asked, same look on her face.

“Jonathan.” I admitted.

“You’d better be careful.” She said, looking me up and down. “Wouldn’t want to get caught fraternizing.”

“I’m not even…” I started to say as she turned and walked away.

I rolled my eyes as I watched her walk along the outside of the rink.

After about 20 minutes, my eyes started to droop. I hadn’t even noticed that the team had cleared the ice until I saw the Zamboni zooming around the rink.

“I don’t think you’re supposed to fall asleep if you have a concussion.” Patrick Kane said, as he started to climb up the stairs to sit beside me.

“I was simply resting my eyes.” I said back, not even caring how sassy I sounded.

“Toews tells me that you walked away from your wreck like a total badass.” He said, looking at the bandage that was still on my forehead.

“I wouldn’t say that.” I said, looking him the eye.

“Dude, Jon doesn’t exaggerate.” He said.

“Okay.” I smirked. “Dude.”

“I like you.” Kane said, looking me up and down. “I think you and I are going to be best friends.”

“I do too.” I said returning the favor. “You’re annoying, like my brothers.”

“I was just thinking the same thing.” He smirked. “You remind me of my sisters.”

“Is Kaner bothering you?” I heard Jonathan ask as he looked up at us. “Just hit him with your shoe, he’ll crawl away.”

“He is.” I said, standing up and grabbing my stuff. “But that’s okay because we’re friends now.”

“That was quick.” Jonathan said with a chuckle. “You ready to go?”

“I am.” I said smiling down at him as I walked down the stairs.

I joined Jonathan and Patrick followed us, joking around with us as we made our way to the parking lot.

When we finally got to Jonathan’s car, Patrick stopped us before we got in.

“We’re going out for a drink later.” He said leaning against Jonathan’s car. “You guys coming or what?”

“What time and where?” Jonathan said with a leery glance.

“Around 6 at The Crystal.” Patrick said, ignoring Jonathan’s hesitation.

“I guess I can make an appearance.” Jonathan said, turning to look at me. “How about you Mackenzie?”

“Yeah, Mack Attack.” Kaner said with an attitude. “What about you?”

“I mean, I have a concussion and a totaled car.” I muttered. “I guess if anyone needs a drink, it’s me.”

“Damn girl!” Kaner said, shocked at my answer. “You are a badass.”

“You are.” Jonathan said with a sweet smile. “I can pick you up and take you again.”

“I’ll make my roommate do it.” I said, smiling back at him. “She owes me.”

“Hell yeah, son!” Kane said, fist pumping as he made his way to his car.

“What an idiot.” Jonathan said shaking his head as he started to get in his car.

I just looked over at him completely in shock. The fact that I was going to be riding in Jonathan Toews’ car with Jonathan Toews, and that Patrick Kane invited me out to drinks hit me all at once.

“Are you okay?” He asked, pulling me back to the here and now.

“Yeah, sorry.” I smiled weakly, all of my confidence from earlier flying out the window.

“It’s okay.” He smirked. “I was just making sure you weren’t stroking out or having a psychic vision.”

“I appreciate the concern.” I said shyly, lowering myself into the car.

“What’s you address?” He asked pulling out his phone.

He typed in the address as I recited it to him.

“While I’ve got this out, what’s your phone number?” He asked. “That way I can text you later about meeting up.”

I recited that to him too.

“Let’s get you home.” He smiled, placing his hand over mine and innocently squeezing it. “You look like you need some rest.”

As we drove toward my tiny apartment, I couldn’t help but look over at Jonathan.

“What the hell is happening in my life right now?” I thought to myself, as I admired his silhouette.

Notes