#Summer of Love | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

justabigassnerd · 4 months

Text

Summer of Love pt. 1

Pairing - Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw x reader

Word count - 2,367

Warnings - none

Summary - while in the final stages of recovery after a mission gone wrong, Bradley signs himself up to work at a summer camp just for something to do since Maverick has barred him from Navy work for the time being. meanwhile, you're in between jobs and figure working at a summer camp is some good experience. you meet Bradley and experience a romance you could've never expected (along with some very nosy kids)

Summer of Love masterlist

A/N - here it is y'all! the very first part of 'Summer of Love' I am so excited to be posting this I'm honestly so impressed with myself for writing it as quick as I did and I hope this lives up to expectations. I will say I am open to suggestions on things people may like to see within the series so if you have ideas do feel free to suggest them in my inbox :). anyways I won't ramble, as per y'all please send in requests, feedback, and enjoy!!!

After hours upon hours of driving, you finally pulled into the summer camp that was to be your home and workplace for the next couple of months. You parked your car and stepped out of the driver’s seat raising your arms and stretching, sighing as you take in the sights of the camp, amazed at all the beauty that surrounded you.

After stretching and bringing some relief to your tense body, you head in the direction of the buildings you saw, trying to locate the office and soon figuring it out by process of elimination. You approach the building, seeing someone standing just outside who is watching the various soon-to-be counsellors walking around and interacting with each other and they soon notice you approaching them.

“Hello! I’m Kerry!” The woman greets you enthusiastically and you immediately recognise her to be the Camp Director.

“Hi, I’m y/n.” You say, holding your hand out to shake hers before she consults her clipboard, eyes scanning the list for your name.

“Ah, there you are. You’ll be in cabin six. We put the counsellors in cabins together for orientation so you guys can get to know each other and near the end of orientation, we give you guys your cabins for the summer.” Kerry explains, gesturing for you to follow her as she leads you towards some wooden carts you could use to put your belongings in to carry them to the cabin easier and she waits patiently for you to unload your stuff into the cart before having you follow her to the cabin you’d be staying in for the duration of orientation. The cabin wasn’t huge, but it didn’t need to be. It sat just along the lake as all the cabins did.

When you enter the cabin, it is empty but there is evidence of other people. Neatly made beds, people’s stuff upon bedside tables and shelves.

“Thank you, Kerry.” You thanked her as you explored the cabin. Kerry bids you goodbye and tells you when meal times are and lets you know that you’re free to explore the camp and get your bearings before leaving you to your own devices. You picked an empty bed and began moving your stuff from the cart outside to the cabin and began unpacking slightly, making your bed and tucking your suitcase under the bed to clear space. You hadn’t packed too much, just following the very basics of the packing list you were sent so thankfully your bag wasn’t too big or heavy.

When you finished unpacking and tidying your stuff away, you decided to leave the cabin and explore the camp a little. Instead of backtracking the way you came when Kerry showed you to your cabin, you went the opposite direction, following the row of cabins until you reached a spot overlooking the lake and you took a moment to take in the sights. The camp was surrounded by woodland as well as the lake and the trees extended all along the lakeside, but you could see small wooden buildings directly opposite you on the lake which was a clear indicator that this camp wasn’t the only camp on the lake. After appreciating the beauty before you, you continue to walk the line of cabins, unsurprised to see that they’re mostly the same size with a small handful being a little smaller for fewer kids. You pass various other members of staff who offer you a smile and a wave which you return. You then soon end up back at the main area of the camp where the dining hall and office are located.

“Hey, I saw you standing here so I figured I’d come over and say hi. I’m Ella.” A woman approaches you with a smile. She looked to be a little younger than you but regardless you smiled and introduced yourself.

“It’s nice to meet you, Ella. I’m y/n. I’m just getting my bearings. It’s pretty spacious.” You reply, watching as she nods before glancing around the space around you.

“It takes a bit of getting used to. This is my second summer here so I’m more than happy to show you around if you’d like.” Ella offers, looking back at you with a friendly smile.

“If it’s not too much trouble I’d love it if you could show me around.” You say gratefully, following Ella as she gestures for you to follow her. She first leads you to the dining hall, taking you to the top of the stairs and showing you the large room filled with tables.

“This is the dining hall. It will be much more chill with just staff because when the kids arrive it can get noisy, not to mention all the songs at dinner.” Ella explains with a laugh, thinking back to her last year at camp.

“Got it. Make sure I prepare for all the songs.” You reply, chuckling slightly at the image of the dining hall filled with kids singing. You then follow Ella back down the stairs and stick by her side as she gives you a full tour of the camp, even explaining how certain things work around camp as well as giving little anecdotes of her own past experiences. You even find out that she’s staying in the same cabin as you during orientation which makes you relax upon the thought that you now know at least one person in the cabin. When Ella concludes the unofficial tour, you notice a group of male counsellors emerging from the staff lounge all talking over each other as they head towards the dining room just as you hear Ella mentioning that it is almost dinner time. You and Ella make your way to the dining room and join the queue for food, standing behind one of the men who had walked past you just moments prior and he soon turned around to face you and you never could’ve prepared yourself for how attractive this man was.

He was tall, had sandy blond hair and had brown eyes that looked perfect when the sun hit them. He was muscular and sporting a moustache which you thought suited him. When he locked eyes with you, he smiled softly and decided to strike up a conversation.

“Hey, you must’ve just arrived today. I’m Bradley.” He introduced himself, his smile never fading nor his eyes leaving yours even as he reached for a paper plate to serve up his meal.

“Yeah, I’ve not been here very long. I’m y/n.” You reply with a smile, grabbing a plate of your own and dishing yourself up some food.

“Nice to meet you, y/n.” You couldn’t lie at that moment. Bradley saying your name felt so right. Your name rolled off his tongue effortlessly and you tried to fight back your emotions because you did not want to be catching feelings this early on, if at all. You soon both reached the end of the food line and headed over to a free table. Some of the guys Bradley was with and Ella sat at your table as well and the eight of you spent the meal getting to know each other a little more.

“So, y/n, what kind of activities are you going to be running at camp?” One of the guys named Cameron asks after taking a sip of his water.

“Just general field sports, mostly hockey, but I am signed up to lead the occasional hikes the kids can do. What about you guys?” You say, listening intently to all the replies you receive. Most of the guys were going to be lifeguards, Ella was teaching sewing and crafts and Bradley had just remained silent.

“What about you, Bradley?” Ella asks with a smile, curious about his job within the camp.

“Same as y/n actually. Except I’ll be mostly teaching soccer. But I am doing the hiking thing as well.” Bradley admits with a sheepish smile, a tone and demeanour you didn’t expect from him.

“Well, it’s a good thing we’re starting to get to know each other already then.” You reply with a smile looking over at Bradley as he relaxes a little, smiling back at you.

The rest of the meal flies by and you soon exit the hall with Bradley, Ella, and the others and you all decide to throw around a tennis ball one of the guys who would be teaching tennis had. You tossed the ball between each other, chatting and attempting to distract each other as you all laughed. Soon enough, the sun began to set and many people began to retreat into the staff lounge to spend the rest of the evening with the rest of the staff and to watch a movie together. However, you chose to remain outside, sat on the porch, gently rocking on one of the rocking chairs that sat on the porch and watched the beautiful golden glow illuminate the camp as the sun disappeared over the horizon.

“Didn’t want to come in?” You turn around to see Bradley poking his head out of the door, having noticed your lack of presence in the staff lounge.

“I don’t really get to see sunsets like this. I wanted to appreciate each one while I get the chance.” You admit as Bradley crosses the porch, easing himself down into the other chair and focusing his attention back on you.

“You should see the sunsets where I live.” Bradley mumbles softly, thinking of the sunsets he had grown accustomed to back in Miramar.

“I take it they’re pretty.” You say in response, your eyes still fixed on the horizon and the fading of the sun.

“They’re gorgeous” Bradley says, watching the corners of your mouth twitch up into a smile before you turn to look at him. The two of you sat in a comfortable silence for a few minutes until you spoke up again.

“I must admit I’m very jealous that you get sunsets as pretty as this. You never really got to see the sunsets where I used to live. I can only hope when I move and start my new job I’ll have some places to watch the sunset.” You say, trying your best not to let your sadness and anxieties sneak into your voice. You had lived in the same place almost your whole life and recently realised you weren’t doing what you wanted to be doing so uprooting what you knew and moving someplace entirely new was scary. Not to mention working in a summer camp in the middle of it all.

“What’s your new job? If you don’t mind me asking.” Bradley enquires, eyes watching you with nothing but curiosity.

“Teaching. I always wanted to be a teacher and I finally got the chance, even if it does mean I’ve got to handle a big move. What about you? What do you do?” You admit with a chuckle before asking Bradley what he does for a living.

“I’m a naval aviator. I got a good chunk of time off so figured I’d do something worthwhile with my time.” Bradley says, trying not to sound boastful about his job but still wanting to display his pride in his career. He knew he wasn’t telling you the whole truth about why he was granted so much time off but he couldn’t do that to you. You seemed so sweet and he didn’t want to dump any of his trauma on you. Before another word could be spoken, you hear the door swing open once more and this time Ella appears.

“Hey, I was going to head back to the cabin to get ready for bed. Wanna come with?” She asks as you nod, standing up and just then realising how tired you were from travelling.

“I could do with an early night. I’ll see you around Bradley.” You say, at first to Ella before directing your goodbye to Bradley, sending him a soft wave and smile as you follow Ella and Bradley watches as you disappear into the darkness that now covers the camp and soon Cameron and the rest of Bradley’s cabin mates emerge from the staff lounge.

“You’ve been out here then?” John asks, having wondered where Bradley was.

“I bet he was out here with y/n. He’s been smitten since he first saw her.” Freddy then says as Bradley rolls his eyes and gets up from his seat, heading back towards his cabin with his cabin mates on his tail.

“Yes, I was out here with y/n. No, I am not smitten.” Bradley says as the boys catch up to him. He was lying of course. Bradley hadn’t been one to believe in love at first sight no matter how much his mother had told him about it growing up. But now he was starting to believe that she might be right.

Meanwhile, you had gotten ready for bed and had clambered into your bed, listening to the sounds of nature just outside your window as Ella got in the bed opposite yours.

“So, how did you enjoy your first day?” Ella asks as the two of you lay back on your beds, staring up at the ceiling.

“It was great. I can’t wait for tomorrow.” You say with a smile despite knowing Ella couldn’t see it.

“It’s good you get on so well with Bradley already. It really helps to get along with the people you are going to spend the most time with.” Ella then says, making you raise an eyebrow at her intentions.

“He’s easy to get along with. He’s a nice guy.” You reply, glancing in the direction of Ella’s bed.

“I bet your crush on him is helping too.” Ella says and you let out a laugh and roll your eyes.

“And on that note, goodnight, Ella.” You say lightly, rolling over and facing the wall as Ella jokingly groans and laughs at your reaction before quieting down and whispering a goodnight of her own. You watch the wall silently, thinking over Ella’s words for a few moments before letting your tired eyes finally drift close.

You couldn’t wait for tomorrow.

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@noz4a2 @kim-stark

#justabigassnerd #justabigassnerd writes #summer of love #summer of love universe #top gun #top gun maverick #top gun fic #top gun maverick fic #rooster top gun #bradley rooster bradshaw #bradley 'rooster' bradshaw #rooster x y/n #rooster x reader #rooster #bradley 'rooster' bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw x y/n #bradley bradshaw

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jj-nhlgirly · 5 months

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Summer of Love One shot:- Always by your side

Jack Hughes X F!OC

An:- Heyyy it’s been a hot minute since I uploaded huh. 🤔 Well here’s a lil something as I get back into the swing of things. Inbox still open for one shots. As always people on the phone will be in bold!!

TW:- Mentions of being high, Injuries but nothing graphic, I don’t believe there’s any swearing in this one which is surprising for me Ik 🤣

(Not my Gif, Credits to who made it)

It was the morning of the first devils game of the season and Mackenzie was buzzing with excitement, she always loved watching Jack play, he always came alive on the ice, it brought out a fire in him that Mackenzie rarely saw outside the rink. She swayed her hips happily in a beat as she walked into the kitchen, “Good morning gorgeous” she greeted Kaylee leaning down to kiss her cheek. “Well good morning my pocket full of sunshine, what made you so happy this morning?” Kaylee smiled up at her. “It’s the devils first game of the season!” Mackenzie smiled as she opened the refrigerator, grabbing a yoghurt pot.

“Oh yeah! Did Jack leave you a ticket? I’m gonna buy one when we get there” Kaylee asked as she ate at the island. “mhm he texted them through last night, he’s already got you a ticket though” Mackenzie laughed, “Again?! I told him I could buy my own, lemme venmo him the money” Kaylee pulled out her phone, “he’s just gonna venmo it back Kay, you know how he is” Mackenzie sighed before laughing. “Damn boy is too kind for his own good, now where are we sitting? I need to know how much to send” Kaylee looked up expectantly at Mackenzie.

The blonde waved her spoon, “Next to the devils bench” she laughed looking at her best friend's expression. “But they’re like $300 each!” Kaylee exclaimed as she pulled up Jack's contact, “what are you doing now?” Mackenzie laughed, “I’m giving him a piece of my mind” Kaylee huffed, “good luck, he’s at morning skate right now” Mackenzie informed the brunette before eating her yoghurt. Kaylee shrugged and tried to call anyway, as Mackenzie predicted it went straight to voicemail.

“Jackson Rowden Hughes you better call me as soon as you get this, you’re in big trouble Mister!” Kaylee shouted through the phone before hanging up, “you do realise that’s not his name” Mackenzie laughed, “oh I know but shouting Jack just doesn’t have the same effect.” Kaylee laughed before heading to the bathroom, “want me to join you hot stuff?” Mackenzie wiggled her eyebrows.

“I’d love for you to join me but i doubt your boyfriend would appreciate that” Kaylee laughed before closing the door, “what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him but you could've let me watch” Mackenzie shouted back teasingly before hearing Kaylee cackle, “maybe next time sweet cheeks”

Mackenzie shook her head as she threw her empty pot away before heading for her room, she looked through her dresser picking out an outfit for tonight. “Kay?” she shouted, “yeah?” Kaylee shouted back slightly muffled. “What are you wearing tonight?” Kenzie asked as she walked into Kaylee’s room. “Oooo I don’t know yet, probably black jeans and a jersey?” Kenzie heard the muffled reply. Mackenzie put some music on as she went through options.

It had been about 45 minutes since Kenzie had started planning outfits, she’d moved into the living room to attend a lecture as Kaylee was in her room attending the same lecture and editing an assignment.

Kaylee’s phone rang from the kitchen, Mackenzie got up from her spot in the hanging chair to check who was calling, when she saw it was Jack calling, she walked into Kaylee’s room passing her the phone. “It’s Jack.” Mackenzie whispered before leaving, “woah woah woah, you can stay missy, you’ll wanna be here” Kaylee laughed as she accepted the call, putting it on speaker.

“Hey Kaylee” Jack spoke first, “JACK ROWDEN HUGHES” Kaylee screeched as Mackenzie winced. Jack sighed, “yes Kaylee, whatever your middle name is Johnson?” “it’s Blair for future reference” Mackenzie spoke up. Kaylee turned to glare at her, “whose side are you on here?” she asked, quirking her eyebrow. “I’m in no man’s land babe” Mackenzie defended as she lifted Kaylee’s drink to her lips, “just that if you know his full name, shouldn’t he know yours?” she added before drinking.

Kaylee huffed, “fine, anyways. why are you buying me tickets Jacky boy, you tryna sugar daddy me?” Mackenzie spat her drink out as Jack laughed, “you know what Kaylee, I’ve known you for 2 years now and yet you still surprise me with the things you say” Jack shot back, “what can i say, I’m gifted” Kaylee flipped her hair, “but seriously Jack, how much do I owe you for the ticket?” Kaylee asked, “Just call it an early birthday present” he answered. “… my birthdays in June, it’s October” Kaylee deadpanned, “ok, early christmas present then” Jack laughed before hanging up.

“Your boyfriend is impossible” Kaylee huffed, “you’re both impossible, he just wants you to like him” Mackenzie laughed. “I already do! I love that boy to death, he’s my brother from another mother, my homie” Kaylee made a peace sign. “all peace and love over here” Mackenzie sighed, “why am i friends with you?” “JUST FRIENDS HAVE I BEEN DEMOTED?! this is the worst day of my life” Kaylee flopped dramatically on her bed. “Babes you know I love you but you are so dramatic” Mackenzie spoke before leaving to continue her lecture. “I love you more sugar tits!” Kaylee shouted down the hall.

It was dark as Mackenzie finished her work, she sighed putting her arms up and stretching her back before checking the time, Kaylee had gone out to grab them some food before the game and still wasn’t back, Mackenzie packed her things away before heading for the shower. “Kenny-bear?” Kaylee called as she closed the front door, “in the shower” Mackenzie replied as she washed her hair. “I got you nuggets, there wasn’t really anything else that looked good today” Kaylee called as she walked down the hallway, “Okay thank you, i’ll be out soon” Mackenzie finished up before leaving to sit in the living room, eating nuggets in a towel.

The girls chatted idly as they ate before going to their respective rooms to change, “are you ready to watch our boys win?” Kaylee asked. “hell yeah, let’s go. Are the boys meeting us there?” Kenzie asked as they took a quick mirror picture before walking out the door, “yeah Cody and Chase are, Jaden, Preston and Hunter are gonna meet us after detention.” Kaylee read the message. “Okay, sounds good, is Cody bringing the white claws?” Kenzie asked as they pressed for the elevator. “Yeah, he asked what we’re planning on doing afterwards” Kaylee asked as she walked in and pressed the ground level. “I’m not sure. Depends if Jack and the boys are up for anything afterwards. I’m not sure if they have anything going on early tomorrow” Mackenzie texted the group chat the same message.

The girls stood outside of their apartment building, waiting for confirmation that the boys had left so they could begin walking. A gust of wind swept across the pair as they chatted, predicting goals and who would score them, “fuck me it’s cold” Kaylee mumbled before jumping up and down trying to get warm, Mackenzie shrugged off her jacket and draped it across Kaylee’s shoulders, “Babe I think I’m a little to big for your jacket” Kaylee pouted, “It’s not my jacket, It’s Jacks” Mackenzie laughed.

“Of course it is” Kaylee sighed as she shrugged the jacket on, Mackenzie wrapped her scarf around her for warmth, she was already shivering but she hid it as best as she could, knowing Kaylee would throw a fit. Soon a car pulled into view along the main road, and Ellen was behind the wheel.

She drove past the girls before doing a double take and turning left, Mackenzie furrowed her eyebrows. “Why’s she turning left? The rink isn’t down that road” Mackenzie mumbled to herself, Ellen appeared in view again shortly after, slowly pulling up to the girls and rolling down the window, “Hey Sweeties, what are you doing out there? You’ll catch a cold, come on, in” Ellen nodded her head to the car, as Mackenzie and Kaylee walked towards it, Kaylee hopped into the back as Mackenzie rounded to the front. “Thank you so much Mrs Hughes” Kaylee thanked as she relaxed in the seat.

“Kaylee, honey I’ve told you before you can call me Ellen” Ellen laughed, as she began driving again. “Hey Mama Hen, I missed you” Mackenzie smiled at the older woman, “Hey Kenz, I’ve missed you too, how have you been? It’s been a while huh?” Ellen asked. “I’ve been good, how are you and Jim?” Mackenzie asked as she turned to look at Ellen, “I’ve been good, very busy though. We visited Quinn in Vancouver as I’m sure you know. I haven’t had much time to come and see Jack as much as I’ve wanted to” Ellen sighed as they approached a red light. “He understands, I can imagine it isn’t easy trying to split your time evenly. At least Jack and Luke will be in the same place soon, so it’ll make it a little easier splitting it two ways instead of three” Mackenzie reassured. “Plus with training and this one, Jack is always looked after! and I’m sure Luke will be too!” Kaylee laughed. “You make it sound like I’m overbearing” Mackenzie laughed looking at Ellen who lifted an eyebrow, “I promise I’m not!” Mackenzie defended as Ellen laughed “Oh I know you aren’t sweetie” Ellen reassured.

A short while later they were pulling up to the arena’s parking lot barriers for players and pass holders, Ellen rolled down the window as a security guard approached them, “Hi Ladies, Can I see your passes?” he asked.

“Kaylee, can you pass me my bag please?” Ellen asked the brunette, “of course Mrs Hughes… I mean Ellen” Kaylee passed the black bag through the gap between the two front seats. Mackenzie pulled her pass out of her pocket, “here Ellen” she gave her pass to Ellen who flashed them both at the security guard, he scanned them before his machine flashed red.

“Okay, this one is working fine” he passed back Ellen’s pass, “however this one isn’t flagging on my system, it appears it’s been taken off the players account” he handed Mackenzie’s pass back to Ellen, “I can’t let these two in without a working pass, I’m really sorry.” he apologised. Ellen went to protest, however Mackenzie shook her head, “It’s ok Ellen, we’ll walk around the front” Mackenzie reassured. “Mackenzie, you’ll get recognised… both of you will” Ellen worried, “I’ll keep her safe, we’ll meet you inside.” Kaylee reassured her as they climbed out.

“You call me if anything happens, both of you” Ellen warned, “Scouts honour” Kaylee saluted. “I’ll call Jim and let him know as well, in case you can’t get hold of me. He’s already inside” Ellen informed before moving off to park in the multi-storey.

The girls walked around the front, being greeted with a long line of awaiting fans and ticket holders, “Great” Kaylee sighed as they joined the back, “MACKENZIE, KAYLEE” a familiar voice shouted, gaining the attention of some people around, “trust Cody to make it obvious” Kaylee sighed as they walked over to them. Cody passed the girls a white claw each. “I thought we were meeting you inside?” Chase frowned. “You were but Mackenzie’s pass isn’t working so we can’t get in” Kaylee explained.

“Ohhh, well drink up, it’s gonna be a long wait” Chase said as he stared ahead. Kenzie sighed, pulling her phone out calling Jack, she doubted he’d answer but thought she’d try anyways. “Hi it’s Jack, sorry i can’t come to the phone right now, leave a message and i’ll get back to you” Jack's voicemail spoke out, Mackenzie sighed before hanging up. “Drink up Kenny-bear” Cody lifted his can to cheer hers, they linked arms and chugged their cans. An hour into their wait Mackenzie was convinced her lips were turning blue, she was still wrapped in her scarf without her jacket, she felt a tap on her shoulder from behind and turned to see two girls who were no older than 17. “Erm Hi I’m sorry to bother you but I was wondering if we could get a picture?” the red head asked shyly.

“Of course” Mackenzie reached her hand out for her phone assuming they wanted one of the two together. “Oh I meant one with you?” the shy girl smiled, “oh sorry, of course you can” Mackenzie smiled tapping Kaylee. “Can you take a picture for us?” Mackenzie asked her best friend. “Course babe” Kaylee smiled, holding the young girl's phone. After taking a few pictures together, the two girls thanked her. “So is it your first game?” Mackenzie asked, smiling kindly, “for me it is, she’s been to one before” the red head pointed to her friend. “Oh I'm so sorry! I forgot to ask for your names” Mackenzie apologised. “It’s ok, I’m Megan and this is Rachel” the red head responded.

“Well it’s lovely to meet you girls, What do you think the score will be?” Mackenzie asked, keeping the conversation going. “Hmm I think 4-0, Jacks definitely gonna score” Megan responded, “I think maybe 2-3” Rachel thought aloud. “Would you mind if I posted the picture on my story?” Rachel asked, “Of course!! You’re the first people to ask for a picture of just me” Mackenzie laughed.

The girls laughed, “normally I’m taking the pictures, people have recognised me before but never asked for pictures or anything” Mackenzie added. “Does it ever bother you? People always wanting pictures of Jack? Sorry if that’s too personal” Megan asked the blonde. “It’s a little personal but I don’t mind answering. At first it did bother me, every time we went anywhere he’d be constantly asked for pictures and I’d just stand there.

“Jack would always be constantly apologetic for it but he didn’t need to, it wasn’t his fault. Now I’m used to it, although when they ask for pictures as we’re getting out of the car or at dinner it is a little frustrating, there’s a time and a place for pictures you know?” Mackenzie replied, “yeah, I don’t know about you but the last thing I’d want is a camera shoved in my face when I’m eating my dinner” Megan laughed. “Absolutely.” Rachel added.

“Oh it seems we’re next, well again it was so lovely to meet you girls. Enjoy the game” Mackenzie hugged them both before turning to her friends. “Look at you, my little superstar!” Chase teased, smiling. “Oh please, It was one picture” Mackenzie giggled as they walked up to security checks. After getting through they walked up to scan their tickets, flashing green they started heading to their seats, grabbing some popcorn as they went. “I’m just gonna call Ellen to let her know we’re through.” Mackenzie informed the group as she stood to the side, she dialled Ellen’s number but it went to voicemail, so she called Jim’s number instead.

“Hello?” Jim’s faint voice could be heard amongst the loud background noise. “Hey Jim, It’s Kenzie” Mackenzie spoke sweetly, “Hi Sweetheart, is everything ok?” Jim asked as the background noise began fading. “Yeah, just letting you know that we got through okay” Mackenzie said, “Alright, I’ll let Ellen know.” Jim spoke softly.

“Oh Jim? I won’t be able to wait by the changing rooms after the game, my pass isn’t working. Could you let Jack know I’ll meet him out back by the parking lot door?” Mackenzie asked the oldest Hughes. “I’ll let him know” Jim assured. “Enjoy the game” Mackenzie smiled. “You too, bye!” Jim hung up, Mackenzie slid her phone into her back pocket before walking back over to her friends.

“Ready?” Cody asked, the girls nodded as they walked into the rink. Once settled in their seats they began chatting amongst themselves, however Mackenzie sat nervously chewing the skin around her thumb, tapping her foot on the concrete below her.

“You okay?” Kaylee whispered, leaning across to Mackenzie. Mackenzie was zoned out staring straight ahead. “Kenz?” Kaylee elbowed her gently, “mhm?” Mackenzie hummed. “Are you okay?” Kaylee questioned again, “Yeah, I’m good.” Mackenzie reassured. Kaylee furrowed her eyebrows but carried on chatting.

The game was soon in full swing, the Devils were up 3-2 by the middle of the third period, Nico had scored twice and Jack had scored with an assist. The middle Hughes boy had the puck and was making his way towards the Islanders goal, but the next few seconds seemed to move in slow motion, Jack had shot the puck into the goal moments before he was taken to the ice by a defenseman.

The defenseman got up fairly quickly, however Jack was still down. Mackenzie shot out of her seat, shouting cusses at the defender before mumbling under her breath “Jack, please be ok. Get up baby, get up.” Jack slowly got up to his hands and knees before slipping down again. Mackenzie watched, feeling helpless as the medical team arrived by his side. Nico looked up searching the stands searching for someone, as soon as his eyes locked with Mackenzie’s he began skating towards her.

“He’s gonna be ok, they’re taking him to the medical room, if you want to go and see him” Nico shouted over the crowd, as Mackenzie started moving towards the locker rooms. She glanced back at the love of her life laying on a stretcher, and whilst deep in her brain she knew it was protocol for players to be taken off that way after taking more powerful hits, she’d seemed to have lost all logical thinking.

Mackenzie wasn’t sure how but she’d somehow made it to the tunnels, as she was about to walk down them a security guard gently grabbed her wrist to gain her attention.

“Do you have a pass?” the guard asked. “Erm y-yeah” Mackenzie dug through her pocket to pull it out but just as earlier it didn’t work. “I’m sorry you can’t come through.” the guard arrogantly said. “b-but you don’t understand! m-my boyfriend Jack is in there hurt, they’ve just taken him down” Mackenzie stuttered.

“Hughes?” the guard questioned, Mackenzie simply nodded, expecting him to let her through now that he had that information however he just laughed at her. “Oh if I had a dollar every time one of you crazy fangirls used that excuse, I’d be a billionaire.” He cackled.

Mackenzie sighed before walking away to call Ellen. “Mackenzie?” Ellen’s reassuring voice spoke, “E-ellen, they won’t let me in” Mackenzie mumbled on the verge of tears. “What was that honey? Where are you?” Ellen spoke calmly, looking over at Jim. “By the tunnels, but they won’t let me in. I need to see Jack, I need to see him” Mackenzie spoke louder, a tear sliding down her face. “Okay Honey, Jim and I are on our way, just stay there. Everything’s gonna be fine” Ellen’s motherly instincts kicked in as she stayed on the line with her until she saw the tunnels. Mackenzie stood off just to the side pacing back and forth, biting her nails.

Ellen rushed over giving the smaller girl a hug, whispering reassurances in her ear, before gently guiding her to the tunnel entrance again. The same security guard approached them, smiling at Ellen but frowning when he saw Mackenzie again. “She can’t come through” He pointed at the smaller blonde, “She, is my son’s girlfriend and I doubt Jack would appreciate you talking to her like that” Ellen responded, “so I suggest you move and allow her through” Ellen stood expectantly.

The security guard nodded defeated, as the girls made their way through the corridors, Jim following behind. Ellen guided Mackenzie gently into the medical room, where a sweaty Jack layed. “Jack!” Mackenzie exclaimed before running over to him, “are you okay baby? What hurts? Just you wait till I see the jerk that knocked you over!” Mackenzie rushed out, grabbing one of his hands in one of hers, she began brushing the hair off his sweaty forehead with the other. Jack layed there, barely able to keep his eyes open but lifted his lip in a slight smile. “Hey baby” He whispered.

“Hey bubs, how are you feeling?” Mackenzie asked as she leaned over to give him a kiss, “like I just got floored” Jack hummed in thought. “Are you in pain? I can go find a medical staff to give you something?” Mackenzie suggested. “They’ve already given me something” Jack mumbled just as the team's doctor walked in. He approached the table with a smile, “Hello Jack, how are you feeling?” he asked as he began looking through cabinets seemingly for equipment.

“Erm dizzy, my shoulder hurts, and my eyes feel heavy” Jack spoke, sounding unsure of himself. “Okay, let’s have a look shall we? If you could follow the light for me” the doctor explained as he began his examinations. After a while he concluded that Jack needed to go to the hospital to get some scans done as he suspected a concussion and a broken collarbone. Mackenzie stepped away as they began getting Jack ready to be moved, Ellen came over and grabbed her hand.

“Jim is going to take Kaylee back to your place and I’m going to take Jack's car to meet you at the hospital, ok honey” Ellen squeezed her hand, “are you sure? I can drive Jack's car if you want to ride with him” Mackenzie assured. Before Ellen could reply Jack's disorientated voice called out as they wheeled him to the ambulance, “Kenzie?”

“I think that answers that question” Ellen smiled knowingly, “I’ll call you if anything happens on the way there” Mackenzie promised before trailing behind Jack. “Mack?” Jack called again trying to move, “I’m here, I’m here” Mackenzie reassured before climbing in beside him taking a seat out of the way. Jack reached out his good arm prompting her to hold it. “It’s gonna be okay bubs, I promise” Mackenzie stroked his knuckles soothingly.

Luckily the hospital was only a short journey away, Mackenzie shot a quick text to Ellen letting her know that they’d arrived and she’d wait in the waiting room for her as she wasn’t allowed out back due to not being immediate family, even though she was registered as one of Jack's emergency contacts. “Today’s really not my day” she mumbled to herself as she sat down fiddling with the necklace Jack gave her for their 2 year anniversary and felt two tears slide down her cheeks before the floodgates opened. Ellen spotted the anxious blonde immediately, she walked over and sat down slowly into the seat beside her, grabbing one of her hands as she did so.

“Jack is going to be absolutely fine” Ellen comforted her, “I know but I just hate seeing him in pain and not being able to do anything” Mackenzie sighed, “He’s worked so hard over the summer to prepare for the season ahead and now he’s out in their first game?”

“You know Jack, he’ll bounce back in no time.” Ellen squeezed her hand, “and I have no doubt he’s gonna be well looked after.” she added gently, teasing to lighten the mood, Ellen lifted her arm inviting Mackenzie to a hug as they waited.

An hour later, a doctor in dark blue scrubs stepped into the waiting room, “Family of Jack Hughes?” he asked as he scanned the waiting patients and family members.

Ellen stood up first, Mackenzie following shortly after as they approached the young man. “Hi I’m Ellen, Jack’s mom” Ellen shook his hand as she introduced herself. “I’m Mackenzie, Jack’s girlfriend” Mackenzie introduced herself. “Nice to meet you both, I’m Doctor May I’ve been the doctor in charge of Mr Hughes’ care, if you’d like to follow me” Doctor May gestured forward as he walked.

The doctor led them into a side room, “please take a seat” he gestured as he sat himself. “Is everything okay?” Mackenzie asked anxiously. “Well, Mr Hughes is currently down in X-ray, as we suspect he’s broken his collarbone. We have already performed a CT scan which shows no internal damage to his head, however we’ve confirmed a mild concussion. We’re awaiting the results of the x-ray to see if he’s going to need surgery.” Doctor May concluded.

“S-surgery?” Mackenzie’s eyes widened, “yes, naturally that is always the last resort however with Mr Hughes’ field of work we need to ensure his collarbone is stable enough to withstand forceful pressure in the future.” The doctor explained, however it didn’t make Mackenzie any less anxious, “Can I see him when he’s back?” she asked nervously. “Of course, I will update you once the results are back” Doctor May assured before standing up to show them to Jack’s empty room.

“Mr Hughes should be back soon, if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask” the doctor smiled comfortably heading to the door, “Erm before you go, may I ask what medication Jack has been given?” Mackenzie spoke softly to the doctor, “He’s been given codeine and morphine” he replied as he scanned his notes.

“May you make a note to not give him any more codiene? It makes him extremely nauseous” Mackenzie requested. “Of course, I shall ask a nurse to fetch a sick bowl as well just in case, I’m not sure why that wasn't on his records” the doctor wrote down the request. “Thank you.” Mackenzie smiled as she sat in the chair closest to where the missing bed was. Ellen placed a comforting hand on the younger girl's shoulder, “you’re both as bad as each other” she stated. Mackenzie furrowed her eyebrows, “I’m sorry?” she questioned, looking up at the older woman. “You and Jack, remember when you broke your wrist when Jack was away on a roadie?” Ellen asked as she stroked Mackenzie’s hair.

Mackenzie faintly nodded, “well he asked Jim and I to fly out to come and look after you, he must have called us at least 20 times each in an hour to keep updating him” Ellen smiled at the memory, “reminds me of Jim and I in a way.”

“How so?” Mackenzie questioned, Ellen laughed to herself, “when Jim and I first started seeing each other, he’d invite me to his games. At first I thought he was a really good player until he kept trying to impress me by making some questionable plays, anyways one day he’d made arguably his most stupidest play to date and I remember so vividly sitting there, panicking, anxiously awaiting him to stand up, to brush off the ice and wink at me like he usually did. It was his way of reassuring me he was fine but this time he didn’t. Anyways he broke his leg and I made him vow to stop trying to impress me, I joked that I’d need a hospital bed next to his next time, my heart was beating so fast” Ellen laughed.

Before Mackenzie could reply a nurse entered the room, moving to open both doors as a bed was wheeled in, Jack pumping his good arm up and down in the air, babbling nonsense to one of the nurses. “My wife is so beautiful , an angel.” Jack tells him.

Ellen and Mackenzie exchange a look with wide eyes, “wife huh?” Ellen teased, “something you two aren’t telling me?” she added smirking at Mackenzie’s shocked, flushed face. “There she is! Isn’t she beautiful?” Jack shouted as he locked eyes with hers. “I assume you're his wife?” the nurse asked, Mackenzie smiled nodding, “apparently we got married” she mumbled more to herself.

The nurse smiled, before asking Ellen to follow him outside to update her on Jack’s condition. “Hey husband” Mackenzie teased as she leaned down to give him a kiss, “Hey baby, I missed you” Jack gave her a dopey grin. “I missed you too, I’ve been so worried about you bubs.” Mackenzie confessed.

“I love—“ Jack spoke before being cut off with a gag, “you gonna barf?” Mackenzie asked hurriedly as she reached for a sick bowl. Jack shook his head no before quickly nodding yes, as Mackenzie held the bowl in front of him, she rubbed his back soothingly. He dry heaved as he tried to force more out, “shh, it’s okay bubs, don’t force it out” Mackenzie reached for a bottle of water from the nightstand and placed the barf bowl on the table.

A nurse walked in to give Jack some more pain medicine, she noticed the barf bowl and grabbed some gloves. “let me get rid of this for you.” she said as she grabbed it and left, returning a short while after.

“Thank you, I’m sorry about that” Mackenzie apologised. “Oh don’t worry about it, it happens more often than you think, now I have some more pain medication for Jack” the nurse reassured before placing an IV on Jack's arm.

Jack watches as Mackenzie holds his hand squeezing reassuringly before giving him a small smile. “Feel a bit better now?” Mackenzie asked as she began brushing her hand through his hair soothingly, “mhmm” Jack hummed. Ellen entered the room, smiling softly at her son, “Oh Jack” she sighed, coming over to the unoccupied side of the bed. “How are you feeling honey?” she asked, looking down at her son worriedly.

“I feel soooo good right now!” Jack mumbled before trying to move, “woah easy there cowboy” Mackenzie moved to fluff up his pillows. “But I want cuddles.” Jack pouted. Ellen chuckled, shaking her head, “you’re literally acting like a child right now” Mackenzie giggled, “hmm” Jack smiled almost drunkenly at her.

“Ellen, I’ll be back in a sec, I’m just gonna go to the bathroom and call Kaylee to update her” Mackenzie mumbled.

“Okay sweetie, I’ll make sure this one behaves whilst you’re gone” Ellen smirked, “Jack, I’ll be back soon love, I’m just heading to the bathroom okay?” Mackenzie reassured him. Jack just grunted in response before beginning to count his fingers, “Mom, why have I only got 7 FINGERS?” Jack screeched, as Mackenzie began leaving. “No Jack, honey you have ten,see?” Ellen laughed. “But there’s 8 I counted!” Jack whined.

Mackenzie giggled as she left, she spent 10 minutes walking down the hallways searching for the bathroom before she finally found one, sighing in relief she entered. After finishing her business and washing her hands, she grabbed her phone and called Kaylee.

“Hey babe, everything okay?” Kaylee spoke as she answered, “Yeah , yeah Jack’s okay. He has a concussion but other than that no other serious injuries. We’re still waiting for news on his collarbone but the doctors believe he might need surgery” Mackenzie explained, “surgery? Damn” Kaylee tsked, “nothings been confirmed though” Mackenzie added, “How’s Jack?” She could hear Jim faintly ask. “Kenz, Jim wants to know how Jack is?” Kaylee relayed the message, “he’s doing good although apparently he only has 7 fingers and I’m his wife” Mackenzie laughed.

“Soooo high off his mind on drugs?” Kaylee summarised, “so high” Mackenzie laughed, “PLEASE film it” Kaylee begged, “oh I will, would Jim like to speak to him? I’m not sure how much you’ll get out of him at the moment” Mackenzie asked sweetly, “I’ll come visit in a little while, does he need anything?” Jim asked, “maybe some new clothes and his toothbrush, it’s not clear how long he’s gonna need to stay for. I’ll message Nico and update him as well” she replied, “I’ll speak with Nico, you just focus on Jack” Jim assured her.

“Thank you Jim” she said her goodbyes before returning to Jack’s room. “KENNY!” Jack exclaimed as he saw her enter, “Jack, shhh” Ellen lightly scolded to try and quieten him down. “Hey bubs.” Mackenzie cooed as she came over. “Have you heard anything yet?” She asked Ellen, “just that the results are back for the doctor to review” the older woman replied, Mackenzie nodded before holding Jack’s hand again as he pouted.

“Kiss?” He asked as he blew her a kiss, “Jack, your mom’s here” Mackenzie informed him, as Ellen laughed. “Hmm, and?” He puckered his lips, Mackenzie sighed before leaning in for a quick peck.

“That’s it, okay” Mackenzie brushed her free hand through his hair.

Jack huffed, and looked away, “Jack” Mackenzie laughed out, “I love you, but ‘m not making out with you when you’re mom’s here. Especially when you’re drugged up.” She tried to explain to him. Jack peeked around Mackenzie’s shoulder to look at Ellen, who was sat smirking and shaking her head at the pair.

“Mhm” Jack hummed, as his eyes began fluttering, “tired sweet boy?” Mackenzie asked as she began pulling the blanket over him, Jack nodded sleepily.

“Get some rest, okay, we’ll wake you up when the doctor’s here” she leant down to kiss his forehead as soft snores escaped his mouth.

Mackenzie then sat down in the free chair, resting her head on the bed, still holding Jack’s hand. Ellen and Mackenzie started talking about what they've been up to over the last few months, before Ellen began talking about a new recipe Mackenzie had sent her to try out, Ellen’s phone buzzed with a text from Jim saying he was outside.

“I’m going to meet Jim in the lobby and bring him up, I’ll be back soon” Ellen promised as she stood up, Mackenzie smiled as Ellen left the room, before looking back at Jack, she sighed, “what am I gonna do with you?” She mumbled before closing her eyes, slowly drifting to sleep.

Ellen and Jim approached the room, “He’s asleep at the moment” Ellen finished her sentence as she opened the door, before stopping in the doorway, “Why have you stopped here?” Jim asked, peering over his wife’s shoulder. All he could see was the lower half of Jack’s body, one leg covered the other not, and a small curtain of blonde hair.

Ellen smiled warmly before snapping a picture of the two, as she walked further in. “How long has she been out for?” Jim asked as he placed the bag of Jack's clothes down. “She was awake when I left” Ellen replied as she noticed Jack’s lip subconsciously wobbling.

The older woman grabbed the blanket he’d obviously kicked off and tucked him in again leaving a kiss on his head before she asked her husband to pass the blanket from the bag to cover the small blonde sleeping beside her son. She took a seat next to Jim on the other side and smiled fondly at the pair. “She’s good for him.” Jim commented, “she is.” Ellen agreed, smiling.