Chance Meetings
Chapter 2
Morgan Rielly Story
Chapter Two:
Word Count: 4.6k
September 2018
Two days was all it took for one blue eyed blond haired boy to take over my mind. No matter what I tried I couldn’t stop thinking about Morgan. This made me question why him? Why was I so captivated by someone I had one conversation with? Was it the way his blue eyes popped in the blue suit he was wearing? Or was it the way he interacted with his fans throughout the evening? These were the thoughts that had me staring at the ceiling as I lay in bed.
Man those blue eyes, they captivated me the minute he looked me in the eyes while I talked. It only took 10 minutes, ten minutes of talking to Morgan and having his undivided attention before he was pulled towards the stage to participate in a couple of games for the audience with his teammates for my heart to skip a beat.
10 minutes for my walls to start to crumble after I worked so hard to build them up. The intense connection that was formed in such a short period of time was what terrified me the most. It was like we were two strings being pulled together by some higher power. Even now I still couldn’t put into words the feelings I felt in that moment of meeting Morgan.
What scares me the most is that since Lucas I hadn’t even thought about another guy and now Morgan was all I could think about. Nevertheless if for some crazy reason he decided to pursue me I wouldn’t be able to put up much of a fight.
When I saw that he had added me on Instagram I couldn’t help the excited giggle that came out of my lips as all kinds of thoughts flew through my mind. What if he felt the same crazy connection I felt when we started talking? What if he was just being polite and being Morgan Rielly the PR version.
With Lucas, I felt like I was always fighting for his attention but with Morgan, for some crazy reason, it felt like he was giving me his undivided attention even if it was only for the ten minutes we spoke.
These feelings made me question everything, especially all the walls I have been slowly building up since Lucas. My dilemma is do I listen to my heart or my brain? My brain says one thing and my heart says another. On the one side, these feelings make me want to run away and hide so that I won’t get hurt again but my heart is pulling me towards getting to know Morgan.
My mothers' words echo through my thoughts “When you are ever questioning anything follow your gut! It will never lead you wrong.” I guess now the question is do I follow my gut, heart or brain?
I quickly climbed out of bed and opened the curtains, heading towards my walk-in closet to get dressed.
I could hear my phone vibrating on my bedside table from the bathroom. I grabbed the phone and saw that Katie had messaged me.
BitchesForLIIFFFE: The doctor prescribed us coffees for our hangovers haha. Will you please supply the goods??? We totally shouldn’t have drunk that much wine last night.
Katie, Dani and I had a girls night last night which resulted in us finishing 3 bottles of wine.
Hailey: Hahaha I’m not feeling wine hung over! But I will bring your prescription lol.
Hailey: Did you really have to change your name in my phone to that? LMAO
BitchesForLIIFFE: You love it and MMEE ;)
BitchesForLIIFFE: 10th floor first set of elevators in the lobby. Loooooove you.
I quickly finished getting ready and headed to the front door. The Greens had just arrived back at the house from a morning at the park so I quickly gave the children a big hug and cuddle before heading out the door. One thing you should know about me is that I love walking especially on sunny days. I continued walking until I found a Starbucks just down the road from sick kids.
I grabbed the coffees and made my way to the hospitals front doors. Katie told me that they were on the 10th floor and to take the first set of elevators in the lobby. Just as the doors of the elevator started to open I noticed a pair of blue eyes looking at me. Once they were fully open I was face to face with the guy who I couldn’t get out of my head for the past 48 hours. I smiled as I locked eyes with Morgan stepping into the elevator.
“Hailey. What are you doing here?”
“I’m not going to lie, I’m kind of shocked you remember my name. You met a lot of people that night” I added as I look towards Morgan
“How could I possibly forget the name of the girl who is so beautiful that she took my breath away?”
I couldn’t help but smile as I heard what Morgan had just said. Morgan scoffed “Oh god that was so cheesy... feel free to laugh.”
“You’re so cute...” I stuttered over my words as soon as I realized what I had just said. “I mean I think what you said is cute.”
“That hurts Hailey... I can’t believe you don’t think I’m cute.” Mo said flashing me his gorgeous smile as he laughed.
Feeling a new wave of confidence I stepped towards him and got on my tippy toes whispering into his ear “Well, that’s because I think you're not just cute but you’re also very hot.”
Stepping back you look into his eyes and you could see his cheeks turn light pink at what you had just said. “I’m actually delivering coffee for Katie and our friend Danni. They are nurses here actually on the Tenth floor.”
“Really that’s awesome, I’m hanging out with the children today. I think we are going to make cookies and slime.”
Ding ding the elevator interrupted the moment and we quickly separated like we were caught doing something you would only see on Greys Anatomy and walked out of the elevator.
Katie just happened to be sitting at the nursing station that was closest to the elevator and saw the two of you step out of the elevator. Of course, she sent you a wink and wiggled her eyebrows in a suggestive manner. Rolling my eyes I made my way over to her handing her the coffee.
Katie quickly stood up and grabbed my arm leading me to the nurses break room.
“Have fun in the elevator? It looked just like a scene from greys anatomy where they get caught making out.” Katie whispered into your ear as she gave you a hug.
“Nothing happened but I did kind of flirt with him,” I said as I looked down at the floor. I still couldn’t believe I did that.
“Dam Hails! Get that,” Katie said as she smacked my butt.
“You know that’s sexual assault,”
“Not with you it isn’t.... you’re my wife nothing will ever separate us,” she says sending me a wink as we both burst into a fit of giggles as you guys made your way to Katie’s break room.
“Well, what happens when you and I both get married… to guys?”
“Psh they will just have to get used to the fact that you’re my wife and nothing will ever separate us. The Meredith Grey to my Christina Yang,”
About 15 minutes later Katie’s break was over so I headed towards the elevator. As I was heading in the direction of the elevator Morgan came out of nowhere and grabbed my arm pulling me into his chest and whispering into my ear “please stay and save me from a couple of the nurses! They are slowly undressing me with their eyes.”
Laughing you whisper, “fine, I can be your knight and shining armor.”
“Thanks.” He whispered as he let go of me.
I couldn’t stop the feeling of dread that washed over me now that I was no longer in his strong arms.
He grabbed my hand and interlaced his fingers with mine walking me to the nurses' station to tell them that I was going to stay with and help.
Morgan put his hand on my back as he led me into the room they were baking and making slime with the children. Once their Morgan announced from the doorway
“I know I was supposed to help you bake the cookies but Hailey here should help make the cookies instead! I heard she is an excellent baker... I will just eat them”
A couple of the kids came running over to me and gave me a big hug. The one girl grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the kitchen area. I looked up and saw that Morgan had made his way to the slime-making Centre. Morgan looked up every once in a while and we locked eyes and he would send me a wink that made my heart skip a beat.
I walked over to the group of children who were standing in front of the cookie making section. “Hi everyone my name is Hailey.”
A little girl who must have been about Ella’s age walked up to me and gave me a big hug. I bent down to her level and she climbed into my arms whispering, “you’re really pretty.”
“Awe Thank you, Elsa.” I said giving her a squeeze.
She gasped “you know Elsa?”
“I love frozen! My favourite is Ana”
I could hear choruses of “I love Ana too” “Elsa’s my favourite” “I like warm hugs like Olaf.” From the corner of my eye, I saw that Morgan was looking at us with a big smile on his face.
I helped the children mix, pour, stir and knead the cookie dough before it went into the oven. I looked over to see how Morgan was doing at his station and I could help but laugh at the scene in front of me. Morgan had a blue smile all over his hands, arms and even some in his hair.
The little girl in the Elsa dress grabbed my hand and we walked over to Morgan.
“Do you need any help?” I asked as I reached up and pulled some neon blue slime out of his blonde hair.
“Haha, what gave it away?”
“Blue slime is a good look for you! It makes your eyes pop!” you stated as you started laughing.
Quickly I started helping the rest of the children with their slime until I heard the ding from the oven. I took out the cookies and placed them on a plate so that they would cool down in time for the children to eat.
One of the nurses went up to Morgan and asked if he would read the children a book before he had to go. He quickly agreed and sat down on the floor with the children and started reading the book ‘Where the Wild Things Are’
I couldn’t help but smile as I watched the way Morgan interacted with the children. You could tell that he really enjoyed spending time with the children. What impressed me the most was that he came on his off day, without anyone from the maple leafs organization. He wasn’t expecting credit for visiting a hospital for sick kids he just wanted to spend the day with the children.
Once Morgan finished the story the children came towards you for their cookie. Morgan followed closely behind and stuck his hand out for a plate. “I have to test the final product or I won’t believe what Katie said about you being the best baker.” Laughing you hand him a plate and he takes a big bite.
“Katie was right! That is an amazing cookie. It’s only missing some ice cream on time.” He whispers.
After saying good-bye to the children Morgan and Hailey made their way back to the elevators.
“Any chance I could get your number?” Morgan asked as he fiddled with his hands.
After a couple of seconds of thinking it over you reach your hand out and say “sure.”
Morgan quickly reaches into his back pocket for his phone and hands it to you.
You type in your number and hand it back to him. He then texts you so you have his number as well.
“Uhm would you like to come to Trinity Bellwoods Park with me?” He asked as he looked toward the floor for a second before looking up into my eyes.
“Sure, it’s a beautiful day out today.”
“Perfect,” Morgan says as he places his hand on your back as you both walk out of the hospital and towards the subway.
The subway was packed so we had to stand close together. We were talking about how much fun the children had this afternoon when the train stopped suddenly which caught you off guard and you flew into Morgan. He quickly caught you in his arms and set you back upright whispering in your ear “don’t worry I got you. I didn’t think it would be this easy to get you to fall for me!”
I could feel my cheeks turn bright red as he said those words. I quickly composed meself and said “I was just testing your reflexes for the season. We can’t have our star defenseman having slow reflexes can we?”
“I think you just wanted to be in my arms.” He answered back sending you a smirk that made his blue eyes shine.
Once we got to Osgoode station we walked down Queen Street until we got to Trinity Bellwoods Park. Morgan suggested that we get some tacos from a place across the street and eat them in the park.
We sat down on the grass and ate our tacos as we talked about Vancouver.
“So why did you go to Vancouver?” Asked Morgan before he took a big bite from his taco.
“They had the best program for the ECE degree in Canada. After I graduated I wanted to stay in Vancouver so I found a nanny job. Originally it was only a one year contract, but I’m still working for them today and it’s been 3 years.”
“Wow, that’s amazing. You must really love them if it’s been that long.”
“It’s not even a job because they are my second family”
“You must love your job as well?” I asked as I reached down to grab a drink from my water bottle.
“I love the hockey part, interacting with fans, and being able to accomplish my dreams. The business side of hockey though not so much.”
“When does the hockey season start for you guys?”
“Training camp starts this week for 4 days. Tomorrow we do the fitness testing and on Tuesday we head up to Niagara for practices, and scrimmage on the ice.”
“That sounds like a tiring couple of days,” I said as I got lost in his blue eyes.
“It’s tiring but worth it at the same time because it means the hockey season is about to start.”
“Nate the six-year-old I look after just made his rep team!” I said as I moved closer to Morgan to get a better view of the CN Tower in the distance. It looked beautiful with the trees in front of it.
“Really that’s awesome! If you can you should bring him to Niagara for a day so he can see practice and scrimmage.” Morgan said as he pulled the ‘move’
You know the one from cheaper by the dozen when Sarah goes on a date with Elliott and he puts his arm around her at the movie theater.
I couldn’t help but quietly giggle as I pictured the scene as Steve Martin and Eugene Levy get in the shoving match and Steve falls over the railing.
Morgan notices your quiet giggle “what?”
“Not that I don’t love your arm around me because I do, but you just pulled the move from cheaper by the dozen.”
Morgan burst into laughter, as he knew exactly what scene you were talking about.
“But about training camp, I will ask Jess but I can’t see it being a problem.”
“Perfect, just let me know.”
You nodded your head as you slowly leaned back into his chest so you could look at the CN tower as the sky slowly turned into night.
Pulling you close Morgan asked, “So tell me about your family?”
“I grew up about 45 minutes east of here in a small town. I lived with my mother, father, sister and German shepherd. They always encouraged us to find what we are passionate about and to pursue it no matter what. They were very supportive of me moving to Vancouver for 7 years.” I said smiling.
“What about you?” I added
“I grew up in North Vancouver with my mother, father, brother and my dog Maggie. I was drafted to the Moose Jaw Warriors in the WHL so I left home when I was a teenager. My family has always been very supportive of my dream and has done everything they could to help make it come true.”
We looked out towards the CN tower as the sun began to set. Today I had the opportunity to talk to Morgan more. After today I can see that he isn’t how I stereotyped him as. He is funny, charming, kind and very down to earth everything Lucas was not.
Looking down at your watch you see that it’s getting late and decide that you should probably head home even though you don’t want the night to end. Looking at Morgan I say, “ I should probably head home.”
We both stand up and Morgan pulls me into a long hug whispering “I really want to kiss you right now.”
I giggled as I said, “well I don’t kiss on the first date.” Slowly giving him a kiss on the cheek instead.
“When can I see you next?”
“How about when you come back from the training camp I will make you some cookies, just don’t tell your coach!”
“Mmmm sounds amazing! Can’t wait.”
Jess and Tom were watching TV in the living room when I got home.
“Come watch with us. We are watching survivor”
“Okay, just let me get changed into my pajamas.”
I quickly changed and joined them on the couch. While the show was on a commercial break, I started talking to Jess about Morgan.
I explained everything that had happened between the two of us and the feelings it is being up.
“Hails he sounds like a really good fit for you. You just need to follow what your heart and gut instinct is.”
“They are telling me that the connection between the two of us is undeniable”
“That’s your answer then. Continue to go on dates and see if there is something.” She said as she gave me a smile “who knows he might be the one!” She added as she sent a smirk my way.
You nodded your head as you leaned back further into the couch.
“I told Morgan about Nate playing hockey and making his rep team. He asked if I wanted to take him up to Niagara for the day to see training camp.”
“Wow, he’s really trying to impress you eh?” Stated Jess as she smiled at you.
“I’m sure Nate would love that. He can take the day off school and you can take my car to Niagara for the day. I will just work from home and watch Max and Ella.”
“Thanks, Jess, I’m sure Nate will enjoy a day with just the two of us.”
“What days is the training camp?”
“He does fitness testing tomorrow in Toronto then they are in Niagara from Tuesday to Thursday.”
“You guys can go on Wednesday!”
“Perfect I will text him now”
I looked down at my phone and saw that I already had a message from him.
Morgan: God you looked so beautiful tonight as the sun set behind you. I hope you got home safe.
Hailey: such a charmer.
Hailey: Talked to Jess and we are a go for Wednesday to come to see your training camp.
Morgan: Perfect! I will let security know so you can get passes to see me after it’s done for the day.
Morgan: try not to distract me while your there. I need to make the team haha
Hailey: As if you won’t make the team, haha but I will try really hard not to distract you.
I looked up from the phone as I hit send and I saw that Jess was just shaking her head at me and smiling.
“What?”
“You’re already smitten with him.”
I couldn’t help the blush that took over my face as I thought back to the date with Morgan. Maybe I was smitten?
I looked over at Tom and he was just shaking his head and muttered “girls” like we were crazy.
The show came back on and I was once again distracted by the show.
“Goodnight guys,” I said as I made my way back to my room.
The days seemed to fly by and it was already Wednesday. I got a bag ready for Nate and I and we headed to Niagara Falls for the maple leafs training camp.
I found an empty parking spot and quickly parked. Grabbing our bags and headed to where Morgan said to meet. When I got there I walked up to the ticket lady and told her my name. She quickly handed me two passes and told me that Morgan had left something for me. She quickly reached behind her a pulled out a blue drawstring leafs bag and handed it to Nate. We moved off to the side and Nate looked at me as if to ask if he can open it.
I nodded my head and Nate pulled out a children’s sized Reilly Jersey. He flipped out over and saw every player had signed it. Dam Morgan, I thought.
Nate quickly threw it on over his jacket and gave me a bone-crushing hug. I quickly hugged him back and we made our way to where everyone was heading to watch the practice. As we walked into where they were practicing a security guard walked over to where we were and nodded towards our passes. He walked us towards the glass and pointed to two seats. He whispered to me so that the people around us couldn’t hear
“Morgan told me that he wants your right at the glass so Nate can truly enjoy the day.”
I nodded and thanked the man as he made his way back to where he was originally.
We sat down in our seats and Nate asked if we could take a selfie to send to his parent. I handed him my phone and he took a couple of pictures of us.
He handed me back my phone just as the players started to step onto the ice. Morgan skated by us and gave me a smile and then got back to work.
Nate sat beside me enthralled in everything he was witnessing. He studied the defenseman worked on their drills, and he cheered when the players practiced their shoot out skills. Towards the end of the practice, the players started skating around and throwing pucks over the glass for the fans. Morgan stopped right in front of us as he nodded at me and smirked as he threw a puck over the glass for Nate. Nate quickly caught it and Morgan grabbed another puck and threw it to another fan.
Nate noticed that the little boy beside him was upset that he didn’t get a puck so he handed him his and said, “Here have this. I already have a signed jersey.”
I couldn’t help the smile that formed on my face as I saw what Nate had done. I was extremely proud and I pulled him in for a big hug.
The whistle blew signaling that the practice was over. The players quickly filled off the ice one by one and made their way to the locker rooms.
The same guard that came up to me before the practice came up to me again and said: “Morgan wants to meet you guys in the hallways once he was done.”
The security guard led us to a hallway away from other fans. Nate stood beside me excitedly talking about his favourite things about the practice.
Not long after we arrived Morgan walked into the hallway.
“Hailey, Nate! How did you like the practice?”
Nate looked between the two of you before saying “it was amazing! I want to be a defenseman like you.”
Morgan walked up to Nate and gave him a big hi-five and said, “I’m sure you will be better than me.”
You couldn’t help the feeling in the bottom of your stomach that erupted it’s was like a million butterflies were dancing as you watched the way Morgan interacted with Nate.
Morgan looked towards you and pulled you in for a hug.
As Morgan kept his arm around you Nate looked between the two of you and asked, “Are you guys, boyfriend, and girlfriend?”
Morgan and I both looked at each other. I’m sure my face was turning bright red before Morgan answered, “no we aren’t but I wish she was.”
I couldn’t help but laugh as Nate answered for me “you need to impress her, she really likes flowers and chocolates.”
“Noted,” Morgan said as he sent me a wink.
“Let me take a photo of the two of you guys so I can send it to mom and dad Nate,” I said as I pulled out my phone and nodded my head to both of the boys.
I quickly took the picture and hit send.
Nate reached for my phone saying, “now I need to take one of you and your boyfriend Hails.”
Man, that guy was on a mission to embarrass me in front of Morgan.
Morgan winked at me and said, “Come on Hails your BF is waiting.”
I teasingly stuck my tongue out at him and walked towards him. He put his arm around me and Nate took the photo.
Nate walked over to us and showed us the picture. Morgan whispered in my ear “please send me that.” I nodded my head and I stepped away from Morgan.
Morgan looked at his Watch and said, “I have to go and sign some autographs for fans. I hope you had a good day Nate. Hailey text me when you guys get home.”
I nodded my head and Nate gave Morgan a big hug. We made our way out of the arena and headed back home to Toronto.
When we got home Nate couldn’t stop talking about our day. After all the children were in bed Jess pulled me aside and gave me a big hug “you made him so happy today Hails. Morgan knew one way to your heart was my children and he made sure to make an impression on both you and Nate.”
I nodded my head and showed her the picture of Morgan and me that Nate took.
“Wow Hails, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so happy in a photo before.”
I nodded my head “ he is really making an impression on me and is making my walls to start to come down.”
I got ready for bed and sent Morgan a text
Hailey: thank you for everything you did for Nate and I. It’s all Nate is talking about.
Morgan quickly replied
Morgan: If you can’t tell I’m really trying to impress you.
Hailey: you’re doing a good job because it’s working.
Morgan: Goodnight beautiful. I hope you dream of me ;)
Hailey: Goodnight superstar. I hope you don’t dream of me because I can’t distract you remember.
Morgan: haha too late for that.
Chapter Two:
Word Count: 4.6k
September 2018
Two days was all it took for one blue eyed blond haired boy to take over my mind. No matter what I tried I couldn’t stop thinking about Morgan. This made me question why him? Why was I so captivated by someone I had one conversation with? Was it the way his blue eyes popped in the blue suit he was wearing? Or was it the way he interacted with his fans throughout the evening? These were the thoughts that had me staring at the ceiling as I lay in bed.
Man those blue eyes, they captivated me the minute he looked me in the eyes while I talked. It only took 10 minutes, ten minutes of talking to Morgan and having his undivided attention before he was pulled towards the stage to participate in a couple of games for the audience with his teammates for my heart to skip a beat.
10 minutes for my walls to start to crumble after I worked so hard to build them up. The intense connection that was formed in such a short period of time was what terrified me the most. It was like we were two strings being pulled together by some higher power. Even now I still couldn’t put into words the feelings I felt in that moment of meeting Morgan.
What scares me the most is that since Lucas I hadn’t even thought about another guy and now Morgan was all I could think about. Nevertheless if for some crazy reason he decided to pursue me I wouldn’t be able to put up much of a fight.
When I saw that he had added me on Instagram I couldn’t help the excited giggle that came out of my lips as all kinds of thoughts flew through my mind. What if he felt the same crazy connection I felt when we started talking? What if he was just being polite and being Morgan Rielly the PR version.
With Lucas, I felt like I was always fighting for his attention but with Morgan, for some crazy reason, it felt like he was giving me his undivided attention even if it was only for the ten minutes we spoke.
These feelings made me question everything, especially all the walls I have been slowly building up since Lucas. My dilemma is do I listen to my heart or my brain? My brain says one thing and my heart says another. On the one side, these feelings make me want to run away and hide so that I won’t get hurt again but my heart is pulling me towards getting to know Morgan.
My mothers' words echo through my thoughts “When you are ever questioning anything follow your gut! It will never lead you wrong.” I guess now the question is do I follow my gut, heart or brain?
I quickly climbed out of bed and opened the curtains, heading towards my walk-in closet to get dressed.
I could hear my phone vibrating on my bedside table from the bathroom. I grabbed the phone and saw that Katie had messaged me.
BitchesForLIIFFFE: The doctor prescribed us coffees for our hangovers haha. Will you please supply the goods??? We totally shouldn’t have drunk that much wine last night.
Katie, Dani and I had a girls night last night which resulted in us finishing 3 bottles of wine.
Hailey: Hahaha I’m not feeling wine hung over! But I will bring your prescription lol.
Hailey: Did you really have to change your name in my phone to that? LMAO
BitchesForLIIFFE: You love it and MMEE ;)
BitchesForLIIFFE: 10th floor first set of elevators in the lobby. Loooooove you.
I quickly finished getting ready and headed to the front door. The Greens had just arrived back at the house from a morning at the park so I quickly gave the children a big hug and cuddle before heading out the door. One thing you should know about me is that I love walking especially on sunny days. I continued walking until I found a Starbucks just down the road from sick kids.
I grabbed the coffees and made my way to the hospitals front doors. Katie told me that they were on the 10th floor and to take the first set of elevators in the lobby. Just as the doors of the elevator started to open I noticed a pair of blue eyes looking at me. Once they were fully open I was face to face with the guy who I couldn’t get out of my head for the past 48 hours. I smiled as I locked eyes with Morgan stepping into the elevator.
“Hailey. What are you doing here?”
“I’m not going to lie, I’m kind of shocked you remember my name. You met a lot of people that night” I added as I look towards Morgan
“How could I possibly forget the name of the girl who is so beautiful that she took my breath away?”
I couldn’t help but smile as I heard what Morgan had just said. Morgan scoffed “Oh god that was so cheesy... feel free to laugh.”
“You’re so cute...” I stuttered over my words as soon as I realized what I had just said. “I mean I think what you said is cute.”
“That hurts Hailey... I can’t believe you don’t think I’m cute.” Mo said flashing me his gorgeous smile as he laughed.
Feeling a new wave of confidence I stepped towards him and got on my tippy toes whispering into his ear “Well, that’s because I think you're not just cute but you’re also very hot.”
Stepping back you look into his eyes and you could see his cheeks turn light pink at what you had just said. “I’m actually delivering coffee for Katie and our friend Danni. They are nurses here actually on the Tenth floor.”
“Really that’s awesome, I’m hanging out with the children today. I think we are going to make cookies and slime.”
Ding ding the elevator interrupted the moment and we quickly separated like we were caught doing something you would only see on Greys Anatomy and walked out of the elevator.
Katie just happened to be sitting at the nursing station that was closest to the elevator and saw the two of you step out of the elevator. Of course, she sent you a wink and wiggled her eyebrows in a suggestive manner. Rolling my eyes I made my way over to her handing her the coffee.
Katie quickly stood up and grabbed my arm leading me to the nurses break room.
“Have fun in the elevator? It looked just like a scene from greys anatomy where they get caught making out.” Katie whispered into your ear as she gave you a hug.
“Nothing happened but I did kind of flirt with him,” I said as I looked down at the floor. I still couldn’t believe I did that.
“Dam Hails! Get that,” Katie said as she smacked my butt.
“You know that’s sexual assault,”
“Not with you it isn’t.... you’re my wife nothing will ever separate us,” she says sending me a wink as we both burst into a fit of giggles as you guys made your way to Katie’s break room.
“Well, what happens when you and I both get married… to guys?”
“Psh they will just have to get used to the fact that you’re my wife and nothing will ever separate us. The Meredith Grey to my Christina Yang,”
About 15 minutes later Katie’s break was over so I headed towards the elevator. As I was heading in the direction of the elevator Morgan came out of nowhere and grabbed my arm pulling me into his chest and whispering into my ear “please stay and save me from a couple of the nurses! They are slowly undressing me with their eyes.”
Laughing you whisper, “fine, I can be your knight and shining armor.”
“Thanks.” He whispered as he let go of me.
I couldn’t stop the feeling of dread that washed over me now that I was no longer in his strong arms.
He grabbed my hand and interlaced his fingers with mine walking me to the nurses' station to tell them that I was going to stay with and help.
Morgan put his hand on my back as he led me into the room they were baking and making slime with the children. Once their Morgan announced from the doorway
“I know I was supposed to help you bake the cookies but Hailey here should help make the cookies instead! I heard she is an excellent baker... I will just eat them”
A couple of the kids came running over to me and gave me a big hug. The one girl grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the kitchen area. I looked up and saw that Morgan had made his way to the slime-making Centre. Morgan looked up every once in a while and we locked eyes and he would send me a wink that made my heart skip a beat.
I walked over to the group of children who were standing in front of the cookie making section. “Hi everyone my name is Hailey.”
A little girl who must have been about Ella’s age walked up to me and gave me a big hug. I bent down to her level and she climbed into my arms whispering, “you’re really pretty.”
“Awe Thank you, Elsa.” I said giving her a squeeze.
She gasped “you know Elsa?”
“I love frozen! My favourite is Ana”
I could hear choruses of “I love Ana too” “Elsa’s my favourite” “I like warm hugs like Olaf.” From the corner of my eye, I saw that Morgan was looking at us with a big smile on his face.
I helped the children mix, pour, stir and knead the cookie dough before it went into the oven. I looked over to see how Morgan was doing at his station and I could help but laugh at the scene in front of me. Morgan had a blue smile all over his hands, arms and even some in his hair.
The little girl in the Elsa dress grabbed my hand and we walked over to Morgan.
“Do you need any help?” I asked as I reached up and pulled some neon blue slime out of his blonde hair.
“Haha, what gave it away?”
“Blue slime is a good look for you! It makes your eyes pop!” you stated as you started laughing.
Quickly I started helping the rest of the children with their slime until I heard the ding from the oven. I took out the cookies and placed them on a plate so that they would cool down in time for the children to eat.
One of the nurses went up to Morgan and asked if he would read the children a book before he had to go. He quickly agreed and sat down on the floor with the children and started reading the book ‘Where the Wild Things Are’
I couldn’t help but smile as I watched the way Morgan interacted with the children. You could tell that he really enjoyed spending time with the children. What impressed me the most was that he came on his off day, without anyone from the maple leafs organization. He wasn’t expecting credit for visiting a hospital for sick kids he just wanted to spend the day with the children.
Once Morgan finished the story the children came towards you for their cookie. Morgan followed closely behind and stuck his hand out for a plate. “I have to test the final product or I won’t believe what Katie said about you being the best baker.” Laughing you hand him a plate and he takes a big bite.
“Katie was right! That is an amazing cookie. It’s only missing some ice cream on time.” He whispers.
After saying good-bye to the children Morgan and Hailey made their way back to the elevators.
“Any chance I could get your number?” Morgan asked as he fiddled with his hands.
After a couple of seconds of thinking it over you reach your hand out and say “sure.”
Morgan quickly reaches into his back pocket for his phone and hands it to you.
You type in your number and hand it back to him. He then texts you so you have his number as well.
“Uhm would you like to come to Trinity Bellwoods Park with me?” He asked as he looked toward the floor for a second before looking up into my eyes.
“Sure, it’s a beautiful day out today.”
“Perfect,” Morgan says as he places his hand on your back as you both walk out of the hospital and towards the subway.
The subway was packed so we had to stand close together. We were talking about how much fun the children had this afternoon when the train stopped suddenly which caught you off guard and you flew into Morgan. He quickly caught you in his arms and set you back upright whispering in your ear “don’t worry I got you. I didn’t think it would be this easy to get you to fall for me!”
I could feel my cheeks turn bright red as he said those words. I quickly composed meself and said “I was just testing your reflexes for the season. We can’t have our star defenseman having slow reflexes can we?”
“I think you just wanted to be in my arms.” He answered back sending you a smirk that made his blue eyes shine.
Once we got to Osgoode station we walked down Queen Street until we got to Trinity Bellwoods Park. Morgan suggested that we get some tacos from a place across the street and eat them in the park.
We sat down on the grass and ate our tacos as we talked about Vancouver.
“So why did you go to Vancouver?” Asked Morgan before he took a big bite from his taco.
“They had the best program for the ECE degree in Canada. After I graduated I wanted to stay in Vancouver so I found a nanny job. Originally it was only a one year contract, but I’m still working for them today and it’s been 3 years.”
“Wow, that’s amazing. You must really love them if it’s been that long.”
“It’s not even a job because they are my second family”
“You must love your job as well?” I asked as I reached down to grab a drink from my water bottle.
“I love the hockey part, interacting with fans, and being able to accomplish my dreams. The business side of hockey though not so much.”
“When does the hockey season start for you guys?”
“Training camp starts this week for 4 days. Tomorrow we do the fitness testing and on Tuesday we head up to Niagara for practices, and scrimmage on the ice.”
“That sounds like a tiring couple of days,” I said as I got lost in his blue eyes.
“It’s tiring but worth it at the same time because it means the hockey season is about to start.”
“Nate the six-year-old I look after just made his rep team!” I said as I moved closer to Morgan to get a better view of the CN Tower in the distance. It looked beautiful with the trees in front of it.
“Really that’s awesome! If you can you should bring him to Niagara for a day so he can see practice and scrimmage.” Morgan said as he pulled the ‘move’
You know the one from cheaper by the dozen when Sarah goes on a date with Elliott and he puts his arm around her at the movie theater.
I couldn’t help but quietly giggle as I pictured the scene as Steve Martin and Eugene Levy get in the shoving match and Steve falls over the railing.
Morgan notices your quiet giggle “what?”
“Not that I don’t love your arm around me because I do, but you just pulled the move from cheaper by the dozen.”
Morgan burst into laughter, as he knew exactly what scene you were talking about.
“But about training camp, I will ask Jess but I can’t see it being a problem.”
“Perfect, just let me know.”
You nodded your head as you slowly leaned back into his chest so you could look at the CN tower as the sky slowly turned into night.
Pulling you close Morgan asked, “So tell me about your family?”
“I grew up about 45 minutes east of here in a small town. I lived with my mother, father, sister and German shepherd. They always encouraged us to find what we are passionate about and to pursue it no matter what. They were very supportive of me moving to Vancouver for 7 years.” I said smiling.
“What about you?” I added
“I grew up in North Vancouver with my mother, father, brother and my dog Maggie. I was drafted to the Moose Jaw Warriors in the WHL so I left home when I was a teenager. My family has always been very supportive of my dream and has done everything they could to help make it come true.”
We looked out towards the CN tower as the sun began to set. Today I had the opportunity to talk to Morgan more. After today I can see that he isn’t how I stereotyped him as. He is funny, charming, kind and very down to earth everything Lucas was not.
Looking down at your watch you see that it’s getting late and decide that you should probably head home even though you don’t want the night to end. Looking at Morgan I say, “ I should probably head home.”
We both stand up and Morgan pulls me into a long hug whispering “I really want to kiss you right now.”
I giggled as I said, “well I don’t kiss on the first date.” Slowly giving him a kiss on the cheek instead.
“When can I see you next?”
“How about when you come back from the training camp I will make you some cookies, just don’t tell your coach!”
“Mmmm sounds amazing! Can’t wait.”
Jess and Tom were watching TV in the living room when I got home.
“Come watch with us. We are watching survivor”
“Okay, just let me get changed into my pajamas.”
I quickly changed and joined them on the couch. While the show was on a commercial break, I started talking to Jess about Morgan.
I explained everything that had happened between the two of us and the feelings it is being up.
“Hails he sounds like a really good fit for you. You just need to follow what your heart and gut instinct is.”
“They are telling me that the connection between the two of us is undeniable”
“That’s your answer then. Continue to go on dates and see if there is something.” She said as she gave me a smile “who knows he might be the one!” She added as she sent a smirk my way.
You nodded your head as you leaned back further into the couch.
“I told Morgan about Nate playing hockey and making his rep team. He asked if I wanted to take him up to Niagara for the day to see training camp.”
“Wow, he’s really trying to impress you eh?” Stated Jess as she smiled at you.
“I’m sure Nate would love that. He can take the day off school and you can take my car to Niagara for the day. I will just work from home and watch Max and Ella.”
“Thanks, Jess, I’m sure Nate will enjoy a day with just the two of us.”
“What days is the training camp?”
“He does fitness testing tomorrow in Toronto then they are in Niagara from Tuesday to Thursday.”
“You guys can go on Wednesday!”
“Perfect I will text him now”
I looked down at my phone and saw that I already had a message from him.
Morgan: God you looked so beautiful tonight as the sun set behind you. I hope you got home safe.
Hailey: such a charmer.
Hailey: Talked to Jess and we are a go for Wednesday to come to see your training camp.
Morgan: Perfect! I will let security know so you can get passes to see me after it’s done for the day.
Morgan: try not to distract me while your there. I need to make the team haha
Hailey: As if you won’t make the team, haha but I will try really hard not to distract you.
I looked up from the phone as I hit send and I saw that Jess was just shaking her head at me and smiling.
“What?”
“You’re already smitten with him.”
I couldn’t help the blush that took over my face as I thought back to the date with Morgan. Maybe I was smitten?
I looked over at Tom and he was just shaking his head and muttered “girls” like we were crazy.
The show came back on and I was once again distracted by the show.
“Goodnight guys,” I said as I made my way back to my room.
The days seemed to fly by and it was already Wednesday. I got a bag ready for Nate and I and we headed to Niagara Falls for the maple leafs training camp.
I found an empty parking spot and quickly parked. Grabbing our bags and headed to where Morgan said to meet. When I got there I walked up to the ticket lady and told her my name. She quickly handed me two passes and told me that Morgan had left something for me. She quickly reached behind her a pulled out a blue drawstring leafs bag and handed it to Nate. We moved off to the side and Nate looked at me as if to ask if he can open it.
I nodded my head and Nate pulled out a children’s sized Reilly Jersey. He flipped out over and saw every player had signed it. Dam Morgan, I thought.
Nate quickly threw it on over his jacket and gave me a bone-crushing hug. I quickly hugged him back and we made our way to where everyone was heading to watch the practice. As we walked into where they were practicing a security guard walked over to where we were and nodded towards our passes. He walked us towards the glass and pointed to two seats. He whispered to me so that the people around us couldn’t hear
“Morgan told me that he wants your right at the glass so Nate can truly enjoy the day.”
I nodded and thanked the man as he made his way back to where he was originally.
We sat down in our seats and Nate asked if we could take a selfie to send to his parent. I handed him my phone and he took a couple of pictures of us.
He handed me back my phone just as the players started to step onto the ice. Morgan skated by us and gave me a smile and then got back to work.
Nate sat beside me enthralled in everything he was witnessing. He studied the defenseman worked on their drills, and he cheered when the players practiced their shoot out skills. Towards the end of the practice, the players started skating around and throwing pucks over the glass for the fans. Morgan stopped right in front of us as he nodded at me and smirked as he threw a puck over the glass for Nate. Nate quickly caught it and Morgan grabbed another puck and threw it to another fan.
Nate noticed that the little boy beside him was upset that he didn’t get a puck so he handed him his and said, “Here have this. I already have a signed jersey.”
I couldn’t help the smile that formed on my face as I saw what Nate had done. I was extremely proud and I pulled him in for a big hug.
The whistle blew signaling that the practice was over. The players quickly filled off the ice one by one and made their way to the locker rooms.
The same guard that came up to me before the practice came up to me again and said: “Morgan wants to meet you guys in the hallways once he was done.”
The security guard led us to a hallway away from other fans. Nate stood beside me excitedly talking about his favourite things about the practice.
Not long after we arrived Morgan walked into the hallway.
“Hailey, Nate! How did you like the practice?”
Nate looked between the two of you before saying “it was amazing! I want to be a defenseman like you.”
Morgan walked up to Nate and gave him a big hi-five and said, “I’m sure you will be better than me.”
You couldn’t help the feeling in the bottom of your stomach that erupted it’s was like a million butterflies were dancing as you watched the way Morgan interacted with Nate.
Morgan looked towards you and pulled you in for a hug.
As Morgan kept his arm around you Nate looked between the two of you and asked, “Are you guys, boyfriend, and girlfriend?”
Morgan and I both looked at each other. I’m sure my face was turning bright red before Morgan answered, “no we aren’t but I wish she was.”
I couldn’t help but laugh as Nate answered for me “you need to impress her, she really likes flowers and chocolates.”
“Noted,” Morgan said as he sent me a wink.
“Let me take a photo of the two of you guys so I can send it to mom and dad Nate,” I said as I pulled out my phone and nodded my head to both of the boys.
I quickly took the picture and hit send.
Nate reached for my phone saying, “now I need to take one of you and your boyfriend Hails.”
Man, that guy was on a mission to embarrass me in front of Morgan.
Morgan winked at me and said, “Come on Hails your BF is waiting.”
I teasingly stuck my tongue out at him and walked towards him. He put his arm around me and Nate took the photo.
Nate walked over to us and showed us the picture. Morgan whispered in my ear “please send me that.” I nodded my head and I stepped away from Morgan.
Morgan looked at his Watch and said, “I have to go and sign some autographs for fans. I hope you had a good day Nate. Hailey text me when you guys get home.”
I nodded my head and Nate gave Morgan a big hug. We made our way out of the arena and headed back home to Toronto.
When we got home Nate couldn’t stop talking about our day. After all the children were in bed Jess pulled me aside and gave me a big hug “you made him so happy today Hails. Morgan knew one way to your heart was my children and he made sure to make an impression on both you and Nate.”
I nodded my head and showed her the picture of Morgan and me that Nate took.
“Wow Hails, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so happy in a photo before.”
I nodded my head “ he is really making an impression on me and is making my walls to start to come down.”
I got ready for bed and sent Morgan a text
Hailey: thank you for everything you did for Nate and I. It’s all Nate is talking about.
Morgan quickly replied
Morgan: If you can’t tell I’m really trying to impress you.
Hailey: you’re doing a good job because it’s working.
Morgan: Goodnight beautiful. I hope you dream of me ;)
Hailey: Goodnight superstar. I hope you don’t dream of me because I can’t distract you remember.
Morgan: haha too late for that.
