#hbsimagine

[hockeybabestars]

New Year Same Us - Auston Matthews - Nine

a/n: guys we’re so close to the end! only one more chapter after this! I hope you enjoy part nine!

December 31, 2018 - January 1, 2019

Mitch and Stephs New Years party was pretty amazing. They had decorated with shiny banners and confetti and there were hats and beads and glasses to wear to ring in the new year. Everyone was having a good time mingling or dancing or doing their own things. Music softly played through the living room speakers with ease and the NYC countdown was playing on the T.V. Everyone was dressed up and looking their best. And Aus was no different. 

I spotted him across the room chatting with Freddie. He wore a simple black suit with a white button up underneath, some of the buttons undone showing his toned chest. He looked hot. I thought he would go for something more bold but he insisted on matching me. I thought it was cute. My silver cocktail dress would for sure clash with the other suit he had in mind, so we compromised. His eyes met mine and I sucked in a slight breath. The twinkle of his gaze really doing it for me as he grinned. I smiled back shaking my head. 

He had seemed different since John and Aryne’s wedding. The night that almost was, as I had been referring to it. I had wanted to kiss him badly, but it felt like the timing of it all was horrible. I had decided that night that I was going to try to get over him. I was tired of hearing that we were perfect together and knowing an end for us was never in sight. And then he goes and pulls me back in with his lingering touch and lips ever so slightly ghosting over mine. 

An almost. A should’ve been.

Since then he’s made subtle changes. In the kitchen he would put a hand on my lower back as he brushed past me to grab something from the fridge. He’d been sneaking into my room late at night, just to talk or snuggle. And every time we go out he keeps an arm slung around my waist and eyes down every guy in the vicinity. It’s not fair, honestly. That he gets to stake a claim without the weight of officiality looming over his shoulders. It felt like he had decided to dance around whatever this was. And I was over it. My heart felt like it was being pulled in different directions. Option one was listening to my heart and diving head first into us, and the option two was telling me to listen to my head. And my head kept telling me that I would ruin us, some way, somehow, and I didn’t want that.

But for now, I would happily ignore all of that just to have a good time with my friends. I constantly needed a distraction from will-we-won’t-we with Auston, so I decided tonight that I would let him do his own thing and see where it took us. 

It felt like there were so many things going on, but maybe a refill would do the trick. I found myself in the kitchen, looking through the fridge for something to make a mixed drink with. One drink was not doing me enough of a service tonight, but I wasn’t planning on having more than 2. Maybe 2 and a half at the most. 

I pulled out some champagne and orange juice when I heard a voice from behind the fridge door. “Aren’t mimosas a morning kinda drink?” Willy asked as he shut the fridge door. He leaned casually against the wall and watched me fix my concoction with a smirk on his face. I flipped him off, but smiled as he opened the fridge back up to let me put the drinks away.

“No William. Can’t a woman drink what she wants? It’s new years, you think you could let me live a little.” I grab my drink and swirl it around as I move to step out of the kitchen but he steps in front of me, not allowing me to pass. I flick my eyes up to glare at him but he just laughs and grabs my wrists swinging them a little in front of us. I steadied our hands but he still lightly held me there.

“You seem like you're already over the night and it’s only begun. Wanna play a game?” He smirked.

“I am not up for your shenanigans tonight William!!! I mean business. And I absolutely can not be drunk.” I took my wrists back, one of which had my drink, and took a long sip.

He glared at my drink, “Sure, ‘absolutely can not be drunk’ my ass. Why can’t you live a little tonight? It’ll be funnnnn. Besides it’s fucking New Years. You deserve to be plastered (Y/N).”

I glanced around the room and spotted Auston, he had moved on from Freddie to Steph, and I wondered what they were talking about, both wearing serious expressions. “Just trying to keep a clear head is all.” I mumbled. I was about done with all the feelings swirling around in my head and my heart, and I wasn’t sure I could keep them in if I got plastered. Especially with the way he had been acting lately. What a mess that would be. So for now I keep tabs on how much I’ve had to drink.

“(Y/N/N)” Willy grabs my attention again, having picked up on my worries and this time he’s a little more serious, giving me a knowing look, “don’t worry about anything. Just worry about you. You know how to have a good time. Don’t let what ifs plague you tonight. I promise you everything will workout.” I smiled and wrapped my arms around him.

“Thanks Will. That’s just what I needed to hear.” I mumbled into his chest.

He pulled me back his smile turning into a smirk like a switch had been flipped, “game?”

I rolled my eyes, but smiled all the same, “what game? Is it a drinking game? You’re such a fucking child.”

I felt a pair of arms snake around my waist and pull me in closer. His toned chest hit my back before he spoke, “yeah what game William. You fucking child.”

I laughed swatting his hands that only tightened around me as I looked up at him. The height difference was kinda perfect actually. He glanced down, giving me a wink as I gave up my struggles of escaping his grip. He rested his chin on my head as Will looked at us with a smirk.

“I'm the child here?” He playfully asked, “We’ve got options. Captain Dickhead? Truth or Dare? What Are The Odds? Seven Minutes in Heaven? Fear Pong? What do we want?!?” 

“Truth or Dare?” I deadpanned, “This is exactly why you aren’t in charge of this shit!” I laughed. 

“Hey you never know what can happen with the right people at the right time. It can be… fun?!” He chuckled and threw me a wink. I knew what he was doing. I wanted to kick that mischievous little smirk right off his pretty face. I could see right past his feigned innocence here.

“Are you buying this shit?” I turned in Auston’s embrace to look up at him, and he looked back down at me. 

He shrugged, “Captain Dickhead is always fun.”

“I don’t wanna be drunkkkk.” I grumbled.

“Whyyyy notttttt.” Auston teased but his eyes softened as he looked down at me, “you know if you wanted to I would take care of you. I haven’t had a drink yet.” 

I squeezed his arm in thanks, “I appreciate it, I’m just not in the mood tonight.”

“It’s New Years this is the best mood!” Willy exclaimed but dropped it when I glared at him.

“Can’t I just be soberish damn it! We already went over this!” I laughed. Auston shook his head at the two of us.

“Fine, What are the odds?” Willy crosses his arms exasperated. “That can be sober!”

“I hate you.” I laughed. “I don’t wanna play your games Willy. I can already tell you have some plan formulating that I don’t want to be apart of.” Willy’s calculated expression wore off as I smiled. I pried myself out of Auston’s grip as I went to pat Will on the shoulder. “Sorry for being a buzzkill buddy!” I turned and saw confusion on Auston’s face as I walked past him, grabbing my jacket from the rack, and cradling my drink out to the balcony. 

The cool air of the night settled in my lungs as I rested my arms out on the glass railing. The city lights roaring to life as the clock got closer and closer to midnight.

I knew what Will was doing. He and Kappy were probably scheming some way to force Auston and I into a situation that would turn out embarrassing for me or something. 

I didn’t want our first of anything to be forced. I wanted him to want me because he had feelings for me, not because we were drunk at some wedding, or Kap and Will made a stupid bet or meddled as per usual. I wanted him to want me, but not like that. 

I shoved my thoughts aside, taking an alarmingly large sip of my drink, more like a gulp, and stared out at the sky. This was bullshit. I should be inside having fun with my friends, not trying to clear my thoughts as I overthink like I always do. I toyed at the sleeve of my dress, thinking back to when we were kids, how easy things were when the pressure of liking someone didn’t exist. When we were just us. Before I even thought of us as an “us”.

I heard the door slide open and turned to see who it was. Steph stepped out onto the balcony with me, the metallic material of her red dress shining against the moonlight.

“Hey.” She says softly, coming to stand next to me. I look at her, my expression wavering as I almost let out a few tears in frustration. “Oh honey.” She pulls me into her grasp and I lean into her. She drags me over to the breakfast chairs and slyly pulls my jacket and drink from me to set them down on the table. I sit with a huff and just breath for a minute as Steph just holds my hands. I’m thankful that she gets me, and let me collect myself before listening to me. 

“Willy, god love him, he kinda irked me back there.” I say. She looks at me confused as I continue. “He was all like ‘ I get you, don’t worry about anything’ and then he was all ‘let’s play a game with the right people at the right time and see what happens’ like no.”

Steph just laughs and I can’t help but let my frown fall away as I laugh with her.

“(Y/N), don’t worry about Will. He just wants you guys to be together as much as the next guy so he meddles a little bit.”

“I won’t let him meddle.” I smile, but I know it doesn’t reach my eyes.

She looks at me seriously, observing me before speaking, “is this why you don’t wanna be drunk tonight?”

I nod, “I just don’t want to ruin anything, and I know what will happen the minute I get out of control,” my hands fall to my lap as I play with my fingers, clasping and unclasping them to distract myself. I had meticulously avoided drinking the last few times we all went out together. I felt like I would be overkill if I let myself off my own leash. “I don’t want to ruin anything.” I mumble.

“(Y/N), babe,” she pauses, “why don’t you just tell him? You’ve been sitting with this on your chest for years now. And you’ve been dealing with it by yourself. Just let yourself breath.” she pats my hand in my lap.

“I can’t just come out and tell him I love him.” I suck in a breath. “I don’t think I could bear the rejection from him. Not from Aus. I care too much about him to lose him this way.” I stress. 

“What makes you think it would automatically be rejection? How do you not see it?” She smiles before getting up and pulling me with her. I arched a brow. “Take a moment, but then go back in there and have fun. You deserve it.” She gave me a quick squeeze and headed back inside as I found my way back to the railing. 

I took a breath and closed my eyes as I just focused on clearing my mind. It was peaceful out here. The city was different at night. It felt more alive.

I heard the balcony door slide open and click shut for the second time, as footsteps came to a heavy stop next to me. It was silent for a second, just the sound of the city in the background. The air was charged around us, like he had something to say but couldn’t quite say it and I held my breath. He rested his hands on the balcony next to me, letting out a sigh before he spoke, “Were you ever going to tell me how you felt?” 

I turned to look at him then, eyes wide in shock and the embarrassment I felt was surely showing on my face, “I uh-how did you-“. He moved closer then, still not touching me but closing the distance between us slowly, and it felt like I was suffocating in his presence. “You weren’t meant to hear that.” I breathed lowly, scared that if I spoke louder maybe I would break. The chill of the Toronto air had set in and I shrugged my leather jacket over my shoulders, wrapping it tighter around me and allowing my arms to subtly wrap around themselves. But Auston saw through me. He reached out and gently peeled my arms from around myself and brought me closer to him, his scent, his voice, his presence invading my personal space from every angle.

“But I did. I did hear you.” He was so quiet I almost didn’t hear the words escape past his lips. His forehead rested on mine and his lips were so, so close. All I had to do was push up on my tip toes and his mouth would finally be on mine.

“And?” I breathed in anticipation, eyes lidded and heart racing so fast it could beat out of my chest. When did this go from me being fearful of losing him to being wrapped up in him? His fingers traced my hand as one slowly curled around my wrist and the other reached out to my waist to draw me closer.

His eyes flickered down to mine and I could hear the countdown at 10 from the living room. And if he was so cliche as to-

He kissed me on 8. His lips slowly working on mine in long drawls. His grip on my waist tightened and the hand that was in mine slowly cupped my face. His hand feels so masculine against my cheekbones, the calluses coarse against the expanse of my soft skin but I leaned into it. I brought my hands up to his broad shoulders, pushing myself as close to him as humanly possible, feeling his taut muscles ripple against me. His body heat radiated off him and warmed me up in no time. His tongue was slow and calculated in my mouth. I could feel all the passion he felt in that moment and it caused me to whimper in response. Which in turn made him tighten his grip on me. He tasted sweet like dessert wine. I could hear the cheers of our friends as they rang in the new year but I just I smiled into him. I felt him smile back as I slowly pulled away and caught my breath. 

Somehow both of his hands found their way to my waist, keeping me flat against him. I clasped my hands around his neck and scrunch my nose as he leaned his forehead back to mine gently.  I close my eyes and revel in the feeling of him against me.“That was-“

“I’m in love with you.” He interrupted and I opened my eyes. “You wha-“

“I’ve been in love with you for way too long... I just didn’t realize it. And you’ve been right in front of me this whole time. I don’t know why I didn’t see it before or why it took me so long to admit, but,” the city lights reflected in his eyes making them glimmer as he looked down at me, sincerity gracing his face, “It seems like everyone else caught on before I did. I never want to lose you. My best friend. I always want to be that for you. But I can’t just settle for it either.” His smirk started to peak out at the corners of his mouth, as I felt myself start to smile a little at the normalcy of it. This. This felt normal. That stupid smirk too.

“I need you to be mine.” He says slowly, like he’s scared, that after all of that, that I would somehow say no. 

“All you had to do was ask.” I smile as he tucks a strand of hair behind my ear. I felt a little more confident about my feelings now. 

“I love you, Auston Matthews. Nothing has ever changed that, and nothing ever will.” I place both hands on his cheeks and give him a lingering peck on the lips. His eyes flutter open, staring into mine fervently, and I start softly, “I’ve been in love with you since we were 16 and you dragged me out on the ice. You were so mad about the outcome after your game. But you didn’t say anything about it. You just laced me up after it was over and said you could think better when I was there. I never took that too lightly.” I grinned at the look of awe on his face as he sat down in the chair I was previously in and pulled me down with him. I faced him on his lap as he placed his lips over mine again, thumb lightly rubbing a circular path along my jaw. And as he pulled away I caught my breath.

“I’m glad I get to do that anytime I want now.” He smirked.

“Anytime you want?” I played.

“Anytime,” he pecked along my jaw and I instinctively closed my eyes, enjoying the feeling of his lips burning on my skin, “anywhere.” He kissed my lips again but I was the one who pulled back this time. 

“Happy New Year Aus.”

“It is now.” He grinned and I lightly swatted him, his laughter filling my ears, “that’s not going to change is it?” 

“Same old us, you still want your best friend right?” I smirked.

He smiled genuinely. The one that filled my heart to the brim, “Same us, (Y/N/N).”

-

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Ten

a/n: guys, we’ve come to the end. apologies for not going on schedule with this chapter, i had break and then i was back at school studying for finals. i hope that you guys enoyed reading it as much as i enjoyed writing it! this is the longest story i’ve wrote that i’ve actually finished so i’m proud of it! i’m gonna finish up my winter prompts (and maybe write a few more for funsies) and then im going to focus on stories i have in progress/ coming up! thank you for sticking with this story ! last but not least check out my wattpad for a bonus/alternate scene from this story!! same username : hockeybabestars

April 14, 2019 : Epilogue 

“Babe?” Auston yelled from our room.

“What?” I popped the toast out of the toaster and mashed up some avocado on top, doing so with a little pep in my step. It just felt like a good morning. It was decently early, and the open concept windows of our apartment helped me wake up a little better as I put on my favorite playlist. The giddy smile that hadn’t left my face since we got together was still on full display.

“Come backkkk.” He whined. I was almost like I could picture him plopping down onto messy white sheets and groaning in annoyance- oh wait I can actually hear that.

“No you come here!” I smile knowing that he will. He can’t say no, so I wait. There was a pause and then I hear the padding of his feet as he comes into the kitchen where I’m making breakfast. His t-shirt falls to my mid thigh but rises up higher as he wraps his arms around my waist from behind. He nuzzled his face into my neck and I squirm a little as it tickles, especially with his scruff of a mustache.

“Good morning.” He plants kisses across the exposed skin on my collar bone as I turn to face him, properly greeting my boyfriend.

I kissed his lips, lingering a little before replying, “glad to see you’re up.”

“Yeah well we both could’ve been back in bed just saying.” He playfully shrugs and I laugh, “your loss.” He goes to the fridge pulling out some orange juice as he pours us a glass and I make some scrambled eggs. It was peaceful, being with him like this. Things weren’t really all that different, except now we got to kiss each other and sleep in the same bed.

“I’m not really missing out.” I joke.

“Oh really?” He smirked, sitting down at the island and I could already sense the competitive nature coming out in him as I finished making breakfast.

“What?” I grinned.

“Get over here and I’ll show you what you’re missing.”

“Bring it on Matthews.” I sauntered over to him, teasing him as he placed his hands on my hips and looked up at me, “go ahead, show me what I’m missing.”

He yanked me down into his lap and I yelped as he peppered light kisses all over my face and neck while simultaneously tickling my waist. I giggled and leaned away, “stop!” I laugh, “seriously stop before we topple over- eek!” The bar stools were anything but steady as we swayed over it. “You secretly love it.” he said as we caught our breaths. And I did, secretly love this, the lazy mornings with him, but I wasn’t about to tell him that. I only smiled as I went to grab the eggs and toast I made before he interrupted the productive groove I was in. 

I set our plates down but before I took a bite I gave him one last kiss, just because I could. And it’s so good, so sweet, so right, I’m still not used to it. The butterflies were alight in my stomach as I pull away and sit down before he looks at me funny. 

“What?” I asked finally taking a bite of my avo toast.

“I can’t believe you’re mine.” 

“Don’t be cheesy Aus.” But the blush on my face probably gives me away. And maybe the slight smile too.

He sticks his tongue out at me and I laugh at his childish nature. “I love you.”

“Love you too.” I stick my tongue out too. 

He hums in acknowledgement, and kisses me on the cheek this time before muttering a “thanks for breakfast” and digging in.

-

It was weird at first, to say the least. When Mitch invited a couple of us to have a bonfire at his parents house I really didn’t know what to expect. It wasn’t at least half the team and their significant others that’s for sure. 

The fire was blazing as I zipped up my coat, going to find Auston in one of those adirondack chairs talking to Freddie in an identical one next to him. He smiled as I walked up and sat down in his lap facing Freddie. Freddie just grinned and I could feel Aus looking at me and whatever they were talking about before I got there seemed to cease. 

“What?” I looked at him and he was already smiling, his gaze glancing down to my lips. “Nothing.” He leaned in and gave me a sweet peck. 

“I always knew you guys would end up together.” Freddie stated. He let a little half smile grace his features.

“You did? Cause I didn’t.” I grinned. Auston swatted my hand lightly and then let his hand rest on my upper thigh.

“You two were so obvious before you both even realized that you had feelings for each other. I’m just glad you put yourselves out of your misery.” He gave the two of us a side smile, “or at least everyone else out of theirs.” We both had a chuckle at that.

“It wasn’t that obvious.” I tried playing it off but apparently Kappy caught wind of our conversation as he was passing and decided to invite himself in. “Yes it was.”

“Kap!” I whined, turning my mouth into a pout.

“Oh you weren’t too crazy.” He leaned up against Fred’s chair and gave Auston a little point, “I was talking about him.”

“Oh shut it.” He laughed and wrapped my arms around him and hugged him to me tighter. “You had a wittle crush?” I taunted, laughing as he tried to shake his head no and Kappy and Freddie were shaking theirs violently yes.

“(Y/N/N) the last month before New Years was the worst! He was all, ‘I wonder what (Y/N) will think about my outfit, I wonder what she’ll think of my goal, I should call her, when is she gonna call me?’ Blah blah blah.” Kap rolled his eyes and I looked at Auston to see his face was a little flushed.

“Alright detective we get the picture.”

“Yeah, yeah. I’m gonna go find some stuff to make s’mores.” 

“Kappy wait!” I called and he turned around raising a brow. “What was that bet you and Willy made at the bar that one time? Christmas I think?” 

He laughed and gave me a little ‘tsk‘ , “I told you (Y/N/N)!” He crosses his heart and my eyes were already rolling, “I know, I know!” And we simultaneously said “leafs honor.”

Auston looked at me confused but I just patted him on the shoulder, “I know as much as you do dude.” And he snorted at that.

“It’s cute ya know.” I continued, running my fingers through his hair, twirling the ends, “That you care that much. I never knew these things so it’s nice to hear.” An easy smile fell on my lips as those brown eyes looked into mine. 

He leaned in and gave me another kiss on the lips, and just as I was about to pull away he pulled me back tighter and I smiled against his lips. “Get a room you too!” Mitch yelled.

“Are you sure it’s okay in your parents house?” Auston chirped back and I burst into a fit of giggles along with everyone else at the look on Mitch's face. 

“You wouldn’t.”

“Your childhood bedroom have a lock on it?” He smirked and elbowed him maybe a little too hard on that one. “Auston!” Although the laughter ricocheted around the backyard.

“Baby ow!”

“That didn’t hurt, and that’s weird!!”

“I’m only teasing.” But the smirk was there all the same.

“Sure you are.” Steph laughed.

It was nice having everyone gathered so close. It felt like a home away from home, but I knew I had already found mine long before we came to Toronto. It took forever but the build ended up being worth it in the end. No matter where we go, or how far along we get on our journey, we’re always going to be the same us.

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Eight

a/n: im going out of town for a football game/visiting friends this weekend and i’m not bringing my computer so i thought i would post this early for yall!! thank you to every person who has been keeping up with this story and liking or reblogging! you mean so much to me! i hope yall enjoy the longest chapter of new year same us, to make up for the shortest in chapter seven (yikes!) we’re almost through with this story yall! we have a lil flashback in this chapter! (in italics) and finally have the prompt that started it all! (in bold)

September 18, 2018

Austons P.O.V

“Aus?!” She yelled from her room. “Are you almost ready?” 

I had been ready for 20 minutes and was sitting on our couch waiting for her to finish up. “Yeah I’m ready now!” I rolled up my sleeve to get a better look at my watch, “are you almost ready? It would look really bad if my plus one made us late.” I snicker as I heard her heels clack, the light to the hallway going off simultaneously.

 I got up from the sofa as she entered, and boy, was I going to have to keep an eye on her tonight. She looked stunning. The light pink dress cinched her curves in all the right places, and her hair was in waves. She was like something out of a dream. She didn’t bat an eye as she went to the kitchen looking for the keys. I came up behind her and dangled them in her face, and before she could snatch them I pulled them away. She reached for them again but I held them behind my head, and suddenly she was all too close to my face. I glanced down at her lips, wanting to kiss them badly but then I quickly diverted back up to her eyes. “You look stunning (Y/N).”

I could feel her breath hitch against my own lips and the minty flavor of her gum hit my nose before she smiled genuinely, her signature smile where her lips tilted a little crooked at the corners, and it made my heart flutter. “Thanks Aus, you don’t look too bad yourself.” 

She stepped away and we did a once over of our apartment, making sure we didn’t forget anything. I grinned and opened our front door for her, watching her walk as she went. I locked the door and we went down the hall towards the elevator, “just out of curiosity,” she toyed with a strand of her hair, eyes flicking up to me through long lashes, “how much did your suit cost?” She was smirking at me and I couldn’t resist really. “Wanna bet on it?” The elevator dinged for us to get on and she rolled her eyes, “do I even have a choice?”

“No use fighting at this point babydoll.” I flashed her my signature smirk as the floor indicator ticked down.

“Does that really work on girls?” She played.

“Apparently not on you.” I laughed but deep down I kinda hoped it did.

“It’s because I know you better than you know you.” She stated matter of factly. She did though. That was the scary part. We hit the first level and strolled out, before she added thoughtfully, “did you want it to work on me?”

I felt my cheeks flame, and was thankful she was walking slightly ahead of me, “uhh,” I faltered before gaining my confidence back, “depends on if you wanted it too.” 

She stopped for a split second, giving me a chance to catch up before she continued walking, this time leaning into me a little bit, “maybe.”

My heart jumped at that, “Still wanna make that bet?” I opened the car door for her. She thanked me and I hopped in the drivers side.

“Am I betting high or low.” She gave me side eye as she buckled her seat belt and we were off.

“What do you think?” I grinned. There’s no way she gets this. “Do you know your suits? What brand am I even wearing?” I smiled. 

I could feel her eyes on me as mine were on the road, and she reached over and ran her finger down the lapel of it, feeling the fabric. I tried to concentrate on the road but she was leaned over the console examining the details of my suit, looking for anything that would give away the designer or price. I needed to think fast, I could tell this would be a long night already and it hadn’t really even begun. 

I swatted her hand away, “hey stop it! that’s cheating.” I smiled and looked over at her as we hit a light. She placed her palm flat against my chest as she mocked me, pulling her lower lip into a pout. I could feel my heartbeat pick up and surely she could too.

 “Just seeing what I have to work with Aus.” The nickname melted off her tongue like butter and really I only like it when she says it anyway. The light flashed green and I grabbed her hand off my chest, entwining our fingers together and resting them over the middle console. “I’m betting high, what like $7,000? Is that too much for a suit? What is it Gucci? Aren’t you like their poster boy or something?” 

I laughed at her accusations and she squeezed my hand a little too hard. “Ow! Jeez woman that hurt. Those are my money makers!” 

She swatted at me again, “sorry not sorry. Isn’t like half your closet Gucci or something. I feel like I should know this but I’m really drawing a blank here.”

A smile crept up onto my face. She’s cute when she’s thinking too hard. She always over thinks or over-analyzes everything. It’s like it’s written in her DNA or something.

She looked over at me and I attempted to keep a straight face, “it’s Gucci isn’t it.” I nodded. “$7000 close?”

I kept a tight lip. She turned towards me, “it’s fuckin higher isn’t it!!!” Her voice raised towards the end and I burst out laughing. 

“$10,000.” Her jaw dropped, “what do I get since you couldn’t guess it?”

“I can’t believe you spent $10,000 on a suit.” She was in awe, “that’s like a trip to Europe, or a down payment on a car, what are you psycho?”

“Are you really belittling me right now?” I chuckled, “you guessed $7,000 that’s just as high!!!” 

“Yeah but-“

“But what? $7000 okay to drop but $10 is too much?” Her face went blank as she tried to process it and I howled as her eyebrows knit together. She was something else.

“I hate you.” She fought to keep the smile off her face.

“Your mouth says otherwise.” She covered her lips with her hands as we pulled up to the venue, she finally pulled them off as we valeted the car. And as we walked into the rustic barn I elbowed her a bit, grinning wildly, “seriously though, what’s my prize since you didn’t guess right?” 

She linked our arms as we tried to figure out where we were sitting and smirked at me, “Bragging rights.”

“I bet we could make it a little more interesting.”

“Oh of course you bet huh.”

“You owe me a dance.”

She pouted. “Aus-“ 

“Nuh-Uh. We’re dancing later, it’s the least you can do.”

I can tell she wanted to press me further but instead she just nodded, “Okay.”

“Wow, I didn’t think that would be this easy. I need to win bets more often.” I knew how much she hated dancing. It was because she had two left feet and literally tripped over herself on any normal day. She didn’t like to embarrass herself. The truth was, she wasn’t a bad dancer at all. She could dance fine by herself, especially after a drink or two. But she was clumsy enough that partner dancing wasn’t really her thing. I always try to get her to at weddings and events but she doesn’t budge. She's stubborn as hell, but it’s why I love her. She doesn’t change for anyone. Not even me. I always ended up finding some random bridesmaid to dance with at these things, but tonight she was mine. 

We wandered further into the barn stopping for a few pictures together before the ceremony as Paige snapped away on her phone and a film camera as well. Mitch and Steph found their way to us too and soon enough we had group pictures with the six of us, then guys, girls, and finally as we finished up it was about time to find our seats. 

The Tavares wedding was really going to be something. Greenery was everywhere and there was a modern feel to their set up even with the more natural elements. I put a hand on (Y/N)’s lower back and guided her to our seats on the grooms side. We were in the middle back and slid into the refurbished white bench with ease, the rest of our group following suit, filing into the row after us. I wrapped an arm around the back of (Y/N)’s seat as she crossed her ankles, leaning into me while we waited for the ceremony to start. A comfortable silence settled over us and somehow both our free hands found each other on their own accord. Soon enough she was playing with my fingers, clasping and unclasping them, tracing the outline of my hand and holding our palms up to watch our hands align. It was something we had done plenty of times before. Whenever we got bored or were watching Netflix or at family events. It was inevitable that our hands would meet. Her hand was a lot smaller than mine, and we quietly played a game of thumb wars before the loud chattering settled down. I could hear the preacher say to rise, so I gently grabbed her hand in mine and lead her up. She was still leaning into me as we waited for the bride to make her way down the aisle. 

John and Aryne chose to say their own vows although short and sweet. It was nice. Being here, celebrating them. (Y/N) was the perfect wedding date. She was classy and reserved when needed but could definitely open up and make conversation with anyone who approached her. And soooo many people approached her. Which was crazy because she was the plus one. But that’s just (Y/N), stealing everyone’s heart the way she stole mine. 

It had to be obvious at this point. I thought my incessant flirting and annoying her every chance I got would be enough to give her the hint, but apparently not. I thought that living together was another sign that maybe I was kind of into her but she just took it at face value since it was the most logical option. I think I really realized how I've felt this past May. I mean, it was there all along, but I didn’t admit it to myself until then. She started hooking up with some random guy at college, and when I walked into some kid in our apartment it made my stomach lurch. I don’t think I’ve ever felt that sick in my life.

I had talked to her earlier in the day. We were on a long road trip in the west and I was excited to get back and see her. 

It felt like maybe things had been changing between us lately, and I wanted to get back and test the waters a little just to see if she even felt a tiny bit the same. It was easy with her. I missed her like crazy, constantly texting to see what she was up to, and sending snapchat updates of what the boys and I were doing, just because I knew she would send a picture back and I could see that gorgeous face again. 

Our flight was delayed because weather in Toronto was pretty bad.  And we didn’t end up landing till pretty late. I texted her when we landed at 12 that I would be home soon. I never got a response so I figured she was asleep. 

What I didn’t expect, when I came home at 1am on a Saturday, was some random guy going through the cupboards in our kitchen with just his boxers on. 

“Uh who are you?” I had a sour taste in my mouth.

The guy looked up from his position on the floor, going through the bottom cabinets and I swear almost shit himself. “Oh my god you’re Auston Matthews.” I frowned. Oh jeez a hockey fan, how rare in this city! He shook his head in disbelief and stood up, walking over to me and put his hand out for me to shake. I took it, begrudgingly. “I’m Reese, it’s really nice to meet you, although I never thought it would be like this.”

I scoffed, but he didn’t seem to notice. He found (Y/N)’s post it notes on the kitchen island and pulled one off handing it to me, “do you think you could sign this for me?”

“What the hell is going on here? Reese I thought-” (Y/N) ‘s voice sounded a little groggy, like she might’ve been sleeping, but when she came out of her room, only clad in black lace underwear and a t-shirt I presumed to be his, my breath caught in my throat. One because she looked damn good. And two because she was wearing his clothes and practically nothing else. I felt a fire in my chest. I swallowed hard and tried to remain neutral. 

When she finally realized I was home her eyes went wide. “Oh, uh, hey Aus.”

“(Y/N) you didn’t tell me your roommate was the Auston Matthews.” This guy was still here?

She uncomfortably glanced over at me. Yeah me too. “Uh roommate? Try best friend.” I said smugly.

“I didn't see a reason to bring it up.” She said. Ouch that hurt.

“Sorry Reese bro, but I’m gonna have to ask you to leave, I really need to get to bed and I’m sure your friend (Y/N) here can fill you in on all the dirty details later. Have a great night.” I walked past them and into my room, shutting the door. Trying to get ready for bed without my head exploding from everything that just happened. I waited until I could hear him leave before I went and knocked on her door.

“What Matthews?” I opened it slightly and peered in, leaning on the door frame and watching her fix her bedding a bit, now in another old t-shirt. 

“Matthews huh? Can I come in?” She nodded and crawled under the white comforter patting the spot next to her. I sat down on top of it before rethinking this whole situation. “Actually can we go to my room?” I wasn’t really comfortable that they just fucked in here and wasn’t too keen on sitting in the bed that someone else got to touch her in. 

She nodded and as I grabbed her hand, I felt tingles. I didn’t dare to look behind me as I lead her to my room. We crawled under the covers and sat against the headboard.

 We stared up at the ceiling a bit before she turned to me. “You’re so dramatic.” 

I looked over to her and I could tell she was slightly upset. “But I know that’s not exactly the most fun thing to come home to and I’m sorry.”

“S’okay. Were you ever gonna tell me you were kinda seeing someone?” My jealousy got the best of me, and I couldn’t help but let it seep into my voice a little as I ask.

“No not really, you never tell me when you do...So.” She shrugged, and I tilted my head back a little, groaning.

“You don’t tell people we’re friends either?” It sucked knowing that maybe she was ashamed of me for whatever reason. I always told everyone about her. I loved to talk about her and how proud I am of her for working hard in college and her internship which she officially secured, and just being the amazing, kind hearted person that she is.

“It’s different… I- I don’t tell strangers or people I just met or at least until I have a grasp on their personality. I stopped doing that a long time ago. I can never tell if they want to be friends with me, or have a relationship with me, for me or to get to you.” 

“Oh.” It sucks, but it makes sense.

“Oh. Is right. Also I don’t want people to be up either of our asses if they're just clout chasers.” She smiled, shaking her head as I laughed, “Just not how I want to spend my time.”

I sighed, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to kick him out, that was just weird and I wasn’t expecting you to have company and-“

“Auston. It’s okay. I should’ve warned you in some way, or gone to his place. Maybe this whole thing could’ve been prevented. I’m the one who’s sorry. That situation was pretty awkward.” I don’t want her at some guys place. I want her with me.

I grabbed her hand and placed a soft kiss on her cheek. My stomach churning as I did so, “Stop worrying. Don’t be sorry either. We good?” She nodded and entwined our pinky’s. “Always.” And with that she slipped out of the darkness of my room and back down the hallway to hers. And my heart ached with every step.

Maybe I wasn’t doing enough, maybe I just needed to be upfront. 

I took a swig of the beer I was drinking and set it back on the table as I watched her converse with Steph, Paige, and Aryne, Probably complementing the bride on her gown and the allure of the wedding.

Pretty soon we were eating steak, mashed potatoes and wedding cake, and my stomach was all too full when the bride and groom shared their first dance. I looked to (Y/N) to see her swooning at John and Aryne adoringly. She was facing the back of her chair, hands resting on the back of it, and chin resting on her hands. “Don’t you just love those two together?” Her nose crinkled. It was really cute.

I stood and held my hand out to her as other couples started to join in on the dance floor. She looked up to me, eyes slightly glazed from her glasses of champagne, but I knew she was at a good level. Sober enough to make good decisions, buzzed enough to have a good time. “Are you gonna dance with me?” My heart felt like it was racing as I waited for her answer.

She took my hand so I took it as a yes. I lead her out to the dance floor, Kiss Me by Ed Sheeran coming on as we stopped in the middle. She wrapped her arms around my neck and my hands settled on her waist, pulling her close. My stomach churned with nerves and a little bit of excitement. I looked down at her, her head on a swivel, looking everywhere but me. Other people are looking at us and her brow knit in confusion. Her hand was burning a hole where it was placed flat against my chest. 

“What’s going on in that pretty little head of yours?” I touched her forehead lightly, then bringing my hand back down and wrapping it around her waist securely.

She looked back to me, eyes widening, “It’s nothing.”

“You know you can tell me anything right?” I tried, pulling her back into me as she slowly tried to pull herself away. “That’s what friends are for. And hey, quit trying to leave me!” I laugh, grinning. “Were kind of in the middle of that dance you owe me.”

She smiles back softly but glances around the room again, this time almost self consciously. “It’s just that… I don’t know- I don’t really know how to say it without sounding weird.”

“Are you okay? Is something wrong? You know nothing you say will ever sound weird to me? I’m pretty sure we’ve been through it all.” I leaned my forehead against hers and try to ease her mind but she seems so off. I don’t know what happened because everything seemed normal when we first got here.

She took a breath and pulled back a little looking right at me, “Everyone thinks we’re a couple.” I could see the nerves riddling her features and it made me curious as to why. It’s not what I was expecting, but it made me grin, “I know.” 

“You know? It doesn’t bother you?” Her nose scrunched again.

“Should it? Does it bother you? I mean, personally I think I could do worse as far as fake lovers go, but…” She playfully shoved me and we fell right back into place, swaying as the song went on melodically.

“It really doesn’t bother you?” She seemed unsure, but avoided my question nonetheless, looking up at me as if the only answer I could give would be yes. That it does bother me. And that couldn’t be further from the truth.

I shrugged trying to play it cool, “why would it bother me?”

 “I don’t know…” She looked away, back to the surrounding crowd as the song changed. “You’re Auston Matthews.” She huffed. “You can get any girl you want. Wouldn’t people believing that… we’re an item… wouldn’t that get in the way?”

I grabbed her hands in mine, looking down at them. She instinctively clasped them together and my heart warmed as I glanced back up at her. “That’s just the thing.” We had stopped dancing at this point, and I’m pretty sure we were in the way of people trying to dance, but I didn’t mind. “You don’t see me as the Auston Matthews. You never did. You just see me as Auston Matthews, your extremely good looking and talented best friend.” I smirked.

“Way to ruin it.” She laughed.

I gently pulled her closer, “you see me as the dumb kid who broke his arm at your eighth birthday party, and the horrible friend who spilled punch on your prom dress, and the annoying son of bitch who always tries to force you to dance. You never see me as someone who’s untouchable,” I grab her hand and place it over my heart, “you always touch me.” She looked as if she lost her breath, eyes swirling with emotions. She carefully removed the hand that was over my heart and stood still for a second. She looked back up to me meticulously, “let’s get some air yeah?” I let my hand rest on the small of her back and nodded as she lead the way out, one step ahead of me. My heart was pounding in my chest.

I couldn’t be more grateful for the little piece of privacy that we had out here. The air had turned slightly cooler, and I could see her shiver a little, although she would never admit she’s cold. I shrugged my suit jacket off anyway as we walked along the outside of the barn. The sun was starting to go down and the chill in the air picked up. I wrapped my jacket around her shoulders, and used it to pull her in closer to me. 

She muttered a thanks and I sucked in a breath. Now or never Matt’s.

But she turned to me sharply, beating me to the punch, “you can’t just say stuff like that you know?” 

“Why not?” Her eyes met mine and the wary look on her face told me what I needed to know. I know what she’s thinking. And she means more to me than anyone. She must know that. She has too.

“You could never get in the way of anything (Y/N).” I tucked a lone strand of hair behind her ear as her eyes sparkled and flickered up to mine. “It doesn’t bother me because I don’t want just any girl.” I toe around the subject, hoping she can figure it out before I have to say it outright.

“Well, what do you want Aus?” I want you. Don’t make me say it. Don’t make me ruin a good thing (Y/N). I don’t want to lose us.

My eyes flicker down to her lips. I close my eyes and lean in a little, nudging her nose with my own. Slowly but surely closing the gap between us. I could feel the electricity radiating off her, our lips barely touching before I heard a voice coming from the door. We broke apart, wide eyed, hearts racing, both looking to see who joined us outside.

Kappy looked drunk. And Paige looked like she was dying from laughter. They spotted us and made their way over. I looked back at (Y/N), her cheeks flushed and managing to look anywhere but me, although my arm was still wrapped around her. She leaned into my touch as they approached.

“Youuuuu guyssss.” Kap slurred and Paige just seemed to notice the position we were in.

“Uh Kappy needed some air, but I see you guys did too.” She grabbed his hand and tried to lean him into her for leverage. “We’ll just let you guys have some privacy.”

(Y/N) turned her face into my shoulder as Paige tried to shove Kappy back into the reception. I looked down to her and laughed. She did too, bringing her face out of my shoulder. I would’ve tried to recreate the moment but it seemed like it was lost as she grabbed my hand and tugged me back inside. “C’mon Aus, we should get back.” And I had no choice but to follow.

[hockeybabestars]

a little jealous are we - connor mcdavid

a/n : this was requested on my wattpad and i thought i would share it here! enjoy

word count: 834 - short and sweet

It was another win at Roger’s Place and the air was buzzing as I waited for Connor to come out of the locker room. He was always last out, and that wouldn’t be helped by the fact that he got a hat trick and was probably being swarmed by the media right now. 

I leaned against the concrete wall across from where they normally came out and scrolled through Instragam as I waited. 

I heard the doors fly open, but I didn’t look up because there were still so many girlfriends around. I heard my name though, as footsteps got closer to me, so I glanced up for a second to see Oskar making his way to me. I smiled, and gave him a hug as he held his arms out for me. “I haven’t seen you in forever!” He said giddily and I nodded in agreeance. “How have you been?” I had met Oskar at an after party Connor dragged me to, to meet the team and we just hit it off. We’ve been close friends ever since, but nothing major. We both had busy schedules to adhere to and most of my free time was spent with his captain.

“I know, it’s been way too long, I’ve just been so busy with school and work and this was the first game I’ve been able to make it too since I’ve been back. But yeah, that’s pretty much it.” I grinned, “And oh hey, that assist was beautiful by the way.”

He shrugged, trying to brush it off, but I could tell he was pretty proud. It was one for the highlight reel honestly. “It was noth-” I felt my hand being pulled and when I was spun around I didn’t have time to think before lips were hitting my own. I could tell it was Connor from the woodsy scent of his cologne and the way that his lips glazed over mine almost hungrily. 

I lost all train of thought as his arms drifted from the back of my neck, trailing down my body in a blaze to settle around my hips, effectively pulling me as close to him as possible. He tasted like fresh mint and I let one hand tangle in the little curls that sat just above his neck and the other graze through the scruff he had been trying out. I liked it. I focused on the feeling of his tongue in my mouth and the close proximity before I remembered where we were. I tried to pull back slowly, but he wasn’t having it, trying to go in for more and I chuckled at his eagerness. I could feel him smiling against my cheek as we came down from that high, and I pulled back finally. “Great game?” I laughed. He still had me by the hips as he said, “Oh yeah you tell that to Klefbom too?” I shoved him playfully but he let out a dry laugh, all hints of the smile from seconds ago gone.

 It was then that I noticed that everyone had pretty much filed out, including Oskar, and I felt kind of bad for leaving him hanging in the middle of conversation. But if getting Connor riled up and jealous meant I got kisses like that? Then well, I’d have to do it again.

“Are you jealous?” I smirked, placing feather light kisses along his jaw.

“Pfft, no, he was just a little too close when you guys were talking.”

I rolled my eyes. “Uh huh.” I noticed the little crease between his eyebrows and laughed, the tell-tale that he was thinking too hard. I smoothed it out with the pad of my thumb and chuckled, mostly to myself. “Sounds to me like you were a little jealous.” I grinned.

He looked down at me and gave up the act, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “Okay just a little, I had to show him that you’re mine, can’t have my teammates mackin on my girl.” 

I laughed at that too, “Connor none of them are ‘mackin on me’.”

“All the single guys have crushes on you, I swear it. Gotta show them that you’re my girl.”

“By kissing me mid conversation?” I joked, though I secretly loved it.

“Especially. How can it be more clear than that. Do you see Klefbom in sight? I think mission accomplished.” He wore a smug look on his face and I really didn’t want to do it, but I was about to make that look wider.

I mumbled it a little under my breath, “It was kinda hot.”

His eyes snapped up to mine and I laughed again, entertained by the fact he was so worked up over this. 

His lips met mine more softly this time, slowly working them on mine and it left me breathless. “I'll have to do it again sometime.” 

I groaned in annoyance. “Maybe not in front of everyone next time bud.”

“Oh, baby. Especially in front of everyone.”

[hockeybabestars]

Birthday Dinner - Brock Boeser

requested: yes 

from anon : Could you do prompt one from that secretly in love list with someone?? Like maybe Brock If you write for him?

warnings: light cursing

word count: 1.9k

masterlist link in bio!

a/n: yall i loved writing this! it was from the secretly in love prompt list if anyone wants to send prompt 2 or 3 in! and obviously love writing for brock! thanks for requesting anon!! sorry it took a hot minute! (Y/I) means your initials.

Brock had decided to take me to my favorite restaurant for my birthday, which is how I ended up sitting across from him clad in a flirty little red dress and heels at the best Italian place in Vancouver.

 I had opposed, trying to get him to opt for something a little more lowkey, like wine night on my couch, but he said, “(Y/N),” his dimples poking out with laughter, “we do that every night. Don’t you wanna go out, do something other than staycation like a couch potato?” 

He had lifted my legs and plopped them back down on his lap as he sat down and I turned the volume up on the T.V to drown him out.

“Don’t be like that (Y/I)!” He yelled as I kept turning the volume up.

“This movies’ so good!”

He chuckled and leaned to grab the remote off my leg but I caught him creepin’ and yanked it to the other side of my body.

He went with the movement, the weight of his strong build crushing me as he reached for the remote I was holding over the top of my head.

Brock smirked, pinning me down on the couch as he easily reached for it. I dropped the remote on the floor and he laughed but made no move to get up off of me and get it.

“Bad move.” His eyes flicked down to mine, and with no way to hide the blush saturating my cheeks from his body pressed snugly against me, I feigned ignorance.

“I CAN’T HEAR YOU IT’S SO LOUD.” I smiled, having turned the volume all the way up before dropping it, but as his face leaned closer to mine it felt a little like I had lost this battle.

“Can you hear me now?” His lips were right up next to my ear and my body tensed up with nerves but I lightly shook my head no.

He grabbed the remote from the floor and turned it off as he sat up. “How bout now?” He grinned.

I pouted, “but Brockkkk.”

He took my hand in his, “(Y/N), let’s go to dinner, just you and me. Okay? We can go wherever you want, just let your best friend do something nice for you on your birthday. You never let me do anything for you.”

It was true, I never wanted him to feel like I was taking advantage of him or that I relied on him for things. I always did everything on my own terms, I could let him do this one thing. He looked so sincere, the only thing I could do was agree.

“Okay. Luigi’s it is then.”

So here I am, sitting across from a beaming Brock, who was only stoked that he dragged me out of the house for a change.

He looked handsome, in a white button down and slacks. The few buttons undone at the top along with his signature tousled blonde locks made him look rugged. I hate to admit that it turned me on.

“What are you looking at?” He mused.

“The piece of lettuce stuck in your teeth from lunch.” He immediately checks his teeth with his tongue and I laugh when he tries to get the nonexistent piece of lettuce out as the waiter approaches our table.

-

“I don’t feel like I’m a year older though.” I said finishing up my Marsala. “ I feel like the passing of time is so weird. Like I don't feel like I’m supposed to be this old, but in a few days my mom is gonna call back and tell me how I’m such an adult and how she remembers this time only a few years ago. I don’t know.”

“Time is weird.” He said, “Remember my birthday at the rink? I was probably what? 11?”

My cheeks flushed, “God how could I forget.”

I had a crush on him then and I wanted to impress him with my hockey skills.

Except I couldn’t skate. And I definitely didn’t know how to play hockey.

I was the only girl at his party and the rest of the guests happened to be his hockey and baseball teammates.

I landed face first and chipped a tooth on the ice after attempting Brock’s wicked slapshot by myself with no balance.

The only pro was that he carried me off the ice and stayed with me until my mom picked me up to get it fixed. I think I fell for him a little harder then.

“I thought it was cute.” He smiled. “You wanted to be like me.”

“Yeah, right.” I scoffed, “That was forever ago.”

“Felt like yesterday.” He said. “Member when you tripped down the stairs and busted your knee open?”

“That was last week.” I deadpanned.

He smirked, “felt like forever ago.”

“I hate you.” 

“No you don’t.” He laughed as I just grabbed the dessert menu with a playful scowl.

We looked over the menu for a minute, and I couldn’t decide if I wanted lemon gelato or stracciatella.

 “Hey, you should totally pretend to propose to me,” Brock said putting the menu down. “We can see if someone in the restaurant gives us free dessert. People love it when stuff like that happens.” 

My stomach flipped. I couldn’t even say I liked him, let alone propose - fake or not. “Why am I the one proposing? You do it. It was your idea.”

“Fine.” He grinned, and it was all too alarming, “take your ring off and hand it over.”

My heartbeat picked up as I slid the lone ring off my hand. It was the only one I wore. A plain silver band, one that I had gotten from being initiated into my sorority. It was the only piece of jewelry I never took off.

And as I placed it in Brock’s hand my heartbeat sped up immensely.

We were in the middle of the restaurant. It wasn’t like we were in some back corner booth where people might not notice. No, this was the real deal, and if Brock was gonna do this, he better sell it. And it better be some damn good dessert.

“(Y/F/N) (Y/M/N) (Y/L/N),” he started strong as he got down on one knee in front of me and grabbed my hand in his, “I knew from the first time I met you, that you were supposed to be apart of my life in some way, shape, or capacity. I didn’t know at 5 years old that it would be way more than I expected. I was just looking for a green crayon in class and instead I found my life partner.”

By this time people were starting to take notice but Brock seemed completely invested in his little ruse.

“At 11 I admired your bravery and confidence from afar, being the only girl at my birthday party had its falls,” he winked as I rolled my eyes, “but you had the best slapshot there. At 15 I realized that you were equally beautiful inside out and I was an absolute idiot not to notice before. The way you cared for me when I was going through one of the hardest times in my life, showed me that I would be miserable without you. At 18 we went to prom and the NHL draft. I don’t really remember which one was more daunting. Getting drafted or trying not to screw up dancing with the girl I loved.”

I didn’t realize my eyes were watering as much as they were, and as I blinked a few tears away I could see an equal amount of emotion shining in Brock’s eyes too. 

“And now sitting here I want to tell you that I love you, and that you’re my absolute best friend and favorite person in the entire world and I couldn’t imagine doing life without you by my side. Will you marry me?” I felt weak, as the tears slipped out of my eyes. He was my best friend, but I didn’t realize he looked at me that way. I had too many emotions coursing through me, that the only thing I could think of was “I love you too. Yes!” 

He shakily slid the ring on my finger as he took my face in his hands and kissed me fervently. I had imagined what it would be like before, kissing Brock, but I never knew it could be like this. I could feel the passion all of his words conveyed as his lips glazed over my own.

Instinctively I moved closer to him as one hand rested on my hips keeping me secure against him. Our mouths slowly burned as our tongues met, and one of my hands wrapped around his neck, playing with the curls there. 

And then I heard clapping. And I realized we were in the middle of the restaurant. And I was utterly embarrassed.

I looked to Brock to see a gleam in his blue eyes, cheeks blazing pink, and arms still strapped securely around my waist.

He smirked at me “I knew you felt the same, glad we finally got everything out in the open.”

“Oh shut it.” I pawed at his chest, slowly admiring the way that I fit against him like a puzzle piece, and I wanted to believe for a minute that we actually were getting married. 

He dragged his chair to sit next to me as I came out of the daze we were just in. The people in the restaurant were congratulating us, as the waitstaff brought out some flamboyant dessert with congratulations written in chocolate on the plate. His hand never leaving mine.

“It’s on the house, congratulations, you two are so in love, we’re so happy for you both.” 

I looked to Brock but he was already looking at me. “Thank you so much.”

“No problem. Have a great rest of your evening.” Neither of us made a move. 

“All that for a damn dessert?” I asked turning to him.

“All of that for you. Happy birthday (Y/N).” He said softly, leaning his forehead on mine.

I took a breath, closing my eyes as my fingers found the material of his shirt. “You meant what you said, when ya, you know, fake proposed to me?”

“Of course I meant it. I’ve loved you since we were 15 and you came to visit me as soon as I got back from Europe. When you stayed with me until I felt better, even if that meant sitting doing nothing in my room, or going to practices with me, or the funeral. I always had you, that’s when I fell for you. I just didn’t want to ruin anything. But you had to, you had to know how I felt-I”

I kissed him again, a light peck, but it tingled all the same.

“I feel the same way, always have.”

He smiled but then I frowned, “wait did you plan to tell me your feelings that way or was that some spur of the moment thing?”

He chuckled, “spur of the moment. I’m glad I did it, but that was poor foresight on my part, now we can’t come here when I actually propose to you.” 

“Brockkkk. Oh my gosh.” I hid my face in my hands.

But he pulled them away as he laughed and dug into the dessert. “You know I really love you right.”

“Now I do.” I smiled but then I realized something. “Ya know, we could’ve just told them it was my birthday if all you wanted was a free dessert.” 

“Where’s the fun in that?” He grinned goofily and I nudged his hand as he took a bite, smearing the chocolate sauce across his lips and nose.

I laughed, as he licked it off with his tongue. “You’re so dramatic.”

“But you love me.” He said as he moved to kiss me. I fell for it easily and ended up with chocolate sauce all over my mouth. I think I could get used to it though.

 Best birthday ever.

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - One

a/n: here it is guys! i am so excited for yall to finally read this! short and sweet to start! i hope yall enjoy!

October 12, 2016

“So,” Steph had started, “You and Matt’s huh?”

I quirked a brow, confused as to what she meant. 5 minutes into Auston’s first game as a Leaf and I was already getting probed by girlfriends. Nice. “What do you mean?” I glanced at her nonchalantly but my heart rate picked up, and it didn’t help that I was trying to listen and watch Auston at the same time.

Steph was nice enough. I met her before the season started, which was good because I felt a little less alone after having moved to Toronto right out of highschool. She was easy to get along with, and was always a hoot when we went out, but we had been friends for a few months at this point. And she had never mentioned anything like this before. “You guys are the cutest couple! Give me all the details!! I didn’t want to be too forward before, but I feel like I know you a little better now and can ask these things.”

“Oh uh, we’re not dating?” I said awkwardly, shrugging as I turned back towards the ice. It was nice to know she felt comfortable enough around me to be able to ask anything though. 

“You’re not? Mitch swore to me up and down that you guys were a thing. I mean from the looks of it you're super close.”

I sighed, “He’s my best friend. We do everything together, we’ve practically been glued at the hip since kindergarten.”

“But, you like, moved to Toronto with him? I don’t know about you but that screams girlfriend to me.” Why couldn’t two friends move to a new city together? “So no double dates?” She joked when I didn’t respond to her line of questioning and I laughed but I really didn’t want to explain why I ended up there or why we aren’t a couple or why we look like one. Especially with Ema Matthews a few rows in front of me in the box. Thankfully I didn’t have to because Auston scored his 1st NHL goal.

“OH MY GOD GO MATTS!!” I was ecstatic, grabbing onto Steph as we both cheered for the boy I would do anything for.

Soon enough Auston had scored again and I was jumping up and down in my seat. After my conversation with Steph, I deemed it best to sit with Ema instead, just so we could gush about her son together.

“(Y/N) you don’t know how glad I am that you’re in Toronto with him. As a mother I don’t think I’m ever at peace after leaving him in another place, let alone country. It’s not the same as being there myself, but I can rest easy knowing you guys have each other to fall back on.” 

I smiled, grateful to the woman who became a second mother to me long ago, “my mom says the same thing. She freaks out when I drive down the street at home. I was a little nervous at first, but now that we’ve been there for a while it’s getting easier. I'm just glad you’re here. I know you wouldn’t miss this for the world, but I’m glad to have a little taste of home... and I’m thankful that you let me tag along.” 

“Oh honey are you kidding? Thank you but, you’re not just tagging along. You’re like one of my own, and if you weren’t here I think my son would spontaneously combust. You’re more important to him than he lets on.” I blushed at the sincerity of her words, realizing the second period was slowly ticking away and Morgan had the puck. He sent a pass to Auston, and Ema and I clasped hands, fingers interlocking tightly. He already had two goals but a hat trick? That would be amazing. We jumped out of our seats as he buried the puck easily, hats falling onto the ice from Leafs fans who had made the trip to Ottawa. Ema hugged me tight and we both freaked out a little.

I excused myself to go to the bathroom but when I came back there was only a minute left on the clock. I quickly sat down in my seat next to Ema, heart racing from what felt like adrenaline. I honestly couldn’t believe the sight before my eyes. I was already so proud of him. 

And as he netted the fourth goal with 3 seconds left in the second I lost it. Ema was on the verge of tears as the Jumbotron zoomed in on her. I tried to stay out of the way, but she grabbed me tightly, the shock of it all was too much, and I could see Auston looking up at the screen with a smile on his face. I couldn’t help but smile too.

-

Auston’s POV

“Auston!” Mitch called as I headed out of the locker room. Even though we lost in over time, I felt like I was on cloud 9, and I was so excited that my mom and (Y/N) were here to witness a night like this. 

Mitch caught up to me easily. “Congrats buddy, that was… intense.” He clapped me on the back and I just laughed, gearing up for interviews in what was going to be chaos. 

“Thanks man.” I couldn’t stop smiling.

After the interviews I headed out in my street clothes, and I was blind sided by someone running up and hugging me. I looked down to see my mom, pride swelling in her eyes as she gripped me tightly.

“I’m so proud of you.” 

“Thanks mom.” 

“I’m going to let you two have a moment.” She smiled secretively and I rolled my eyes as she walked away. But the moment they landed on (Y/N) in my jersey, beaming like the Arizona sun? I was a mess inside.

She was smiling as she ran up to me, and all I could do was hold my arms out for her. She jumped, wrapping herself around me easily and I buried my face into her neck, holding on tight. My heart was on fire.

“You’re one hell of a player Auston. I’m so proud of you.” I held on a little tighter, not willing to let her see the blush that spread over my cheeks. “Can’t wait to see all that talent back in Toronto.” I set her down gently.

“Thanks (Y/N). And thank you for being here, I needed you tonight. I need you every night. You're my good luck charm.” Every game she’s been to of mine, I’m never off my game.

She stepped back, but her eyes didn’t leave mine, “Who said anything about a good luck charm? As far as I’m concerned you make your own luck.” Her confidence in me made me yearn for more out of the next game, and it made me realize just how far along in the ride she had come. She was always there. Since day one. And she wasn’t leaving anytime soon. Her hand tugged on mine, “C’mon, we’re meeting your mom for dinner.” 

“I’m only going because I’m being dragged.” I smartassed, and she scoffed.

“You’re going 

because Mama Matt’s would have your head on a stick if you didn’t.”

“Touché.” 

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Six

a/n: yall our girls spill the tea in this chapter. also i did not just make up the wags account, i’ve actually seen some different ones like this on instagram but i don’t know the @ so just a heads up lol, enjoy.

July 28, 2018

“Uh (Y/N)” Steph said from the living room. “You might wanna see this!” 

“Hold on give me a sec!” I grabbed my mitts and pulled the rolls out of the oven, placing them next to the chicken on the stove, and ran into the living room plopping down next to Steph. 

It was a girls night, which meant that Paige, Steph and I were making dinner and watching movies while the guys played video games at Mitch’s with some of their other teammates. It was nice catching up. I had been setting up for a fall internship in my department at school and was getting all the details ironed out before I went back. I hadn’t seen the girls in a hot minute.

“I usually don’t look at stuff like this, but it popped up on my explore feed.” Steph was sandwiched between Paige and I, as we looked down at her phone.

It was an Instagram post with pictures of Auston and I either from each other’s instagram page or pictures it looks like people have sent in from spotting us in public. One of which we are holding hands. “Gimme that.” I make grabby hands at her phone and she hands it to me. I scroll through the multiple photos of us again, and then look at the actual account. An NHL Wags account which has more than 10k followers. Holy shit. 

I click on the Leafs highlight. It’s a bunch of listings of players and girlfriends/wives with the date of the most recent update. The first one has TAKEN next to Mitch and nothing next to Auston’s. But then the one from last year has TAKEN next to Auston’s. And the most recent one, which was updated a couple weeks ago, still says TAKEN.

I went back to the post of us and read the caption. “Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs and (Y/F/N)! These two are adorable! All photo credits go to submissions and their instagrams.”

Under it were probably 50 plus comments. 

“So cute!”

“They’ve been together since day one, just look at their accounts they go wayyyy back and the captions just get flirtier. We love an otp”

“Why tf would he go for her?”

“He could do better.”

And at that I shut it down. I knew people said horrible shit about me for being his friend but I chose not to directly look at it and I wasn’t about to start feeding the beast.

“That’s uh, interesting.” I said handing Steph her phone back. “And weird.”

“Wait why?” Paige asked looking confused. “Obviously not the fact that they have the info but like aren’t you guys together?”

“I forget you’re new.” I laughed, “I swore I told you-“

“I just assumed-“

“It’s not a big deal, literally everyone thinks we’re together at first.”

“So you’re not?” She raised a perfectly sculpted brow as I shook my head, “damn. I swore you guys were. Kappy never told me otherwise so I just thought- wow.”

“If it helps she wants them to be.” Steph shrugged and I glared at her. “What? Better to be honest and upfront. I don’t know why you two haven’t just come to terms with it all and told each other how you’re feeling.”

The timer dinged on the oven for the Mac and Cheese and we all made our way back into the kitchen. “Yeah that would be great and all but Aus doesn’t feel that way about me. And even if he did you see the girls he goes for. Polar opposite of me.” I pulled the Mac out of the oven as Paige started putting the salad together.

“Babe,” she started, “that boy is in love with you. I think he just hasn’t realized it yet.”

“Yeah,” Steph chimes in, “I don’t know if you realize but like, he never even mentions said girls to the guys when they ask.”

“Yeah but that’s just cause I’m around the majority of the time.”

“No- not even when you’re not there. Mitch asked him if he went home with a girl when we went out the other week? Ya know when you were busy sorting out that internship?” I nodded. “We went home early that night but Auston and Willy stayed out.  You know what he said? He didn’t go home with anybody. And you know who he started talking about instead? You.”

My cheeks flushed, “All he went on about is how proud of you he was and how he wanted your internship to go well for you.” 

My stomach was in knots, “you’re telling me that Auston didn’t go home with anyone that night? That’s so unlike him.”

I had thought about it before. Around the time that we first got to Toronto. That maybe he had the same feelings I did, but then it was a new girl every game and I figured that I better get over it quickly before my heart broke. I didn’t. 

I guess I wanted to believe that if he really did like me then he would just come out and say it, or at least he wouldn’t sleep around. And he never did say anything. But he’s hot. And a professional hockey player. And a damn good one at that. He was sleeping around in high school. And it’s nothing to shame him for, it just sucked when I was harboring those feelings and I didn’t want our friendship to change if he didn’t like me back. I wasn’t ready to leave and give him up if that were the case.

“Sis he hasn’t been going home with anyone for like the past 3 months.” 

“There’s no way he hasn’t had sex in that long. That’s just not realistic.”

“That’s what Mitch told me.”

“You live with him.” Paige said, fixing herself a plate, “wouldn’t you know?”

“We never bring hookups to our apartment. I’m always asleep when he gets home on those nights. I don’t wanna know how long he’s been gone. And even if I was awake I keep my door shut at night anyway.”

“Have you like, got any recently?” Steph asked wiggling her eyebrows and putting an unhealthy portion of Mac and Cheese on her plate. 

“Uhh I hooked up with that hot bartender, but Aus doesn’t need to know about that. And also a guy that I had some classes with from last semester, I think about a month ago? But that’s about it. I went out on a limb with those, I’m not one to just hook up ya know? I would rather be in a relationship.” They nodded and I went on, “It was good with the guy from school but as soon as he found out Auston and I were friends it got weird. It was the one time I brought someone over because Auston was out of town. So after we hooked up, this dude was going through our kitchen cabinets at like 1 in the morning with just boxers on while I was asleep and Auston walked in. That’s how he found out I lived with him. That’s how he fucking met Auston.” 

They were damn near cackling at this point and I just started making myself some food.

“What did Auston say to you when it happened and then like after?” Paige poured us some wine.

“He had just come home from a road trip and was so confused. He asked the guy to leave, but I guess he was awestruck that Auston Matthews was in my apartment and I kid you not, asked for a damn autograph.”

They were dying. “Glad I can amuse you ladies at my expense.” I laughed a little too. 

“The whole thing was such a shitshow. Auston obviously said no and kicked him out. Then he knocked on my door. And like there I am with just a t-shirt and panties on. I was so fucking embarrassed. He wanted to talk then and we worked it out. But he was acting kind of weird about it. Honestly he seemed a little butthurt.”

“Of course he did. He was pissed off some kid at your college could get with you when he’s known you all of a semester and Aus can’t seem to catch a break after 20 years.” Steph stated.

I laughed, but Paige added, “Damn right!” She raised her glass and Steph and I did the same. 

“To good friends.” I started, “I needed this, you don’t know how much I’ve missed you guys. So here’s to us!”

“To us!” They said at the same time, glasses clinking.

 And it felt good.

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Four

a/n: well this took longer to upload than expected. i just got back to college after going back home to dallas during fall break, so i was spending time w/ my fam and forgot to upload. hopefully yall will enjoy this chapter! sorry about the wait! 

December 5, 2017

The bar was a little too crowded for my liking, but it was nice to get out with some of the guys and Steph to just have a good time. The Christmas lights added a nice touch to the atmosphere and made the open floor plan of the place seem a little more cozy.

Auston was already drunk, more so on the good buzz side than absolutely slammered, and it made him more clingy than usual. Which was fine by me. My cheeks blazed as we walked up to the bar. He leaned into my side with an arm casually slung around me, his hair mused a little from fussing with it before we left. He looked pretty content. 

Mitch and Steph had grabbed us a table, but they were kind of wrapped around each other at the moment and I wasn’t willing to stick around for the action. Willy and Kappy disappeared, but I think that was to be expected. Which is why I was dragging Auston up to the bar for another drink. “What are we drinking this time?” He grinned lazily, leaning close to my face as his hand tightened around my waist pulling me closer to him. I savored the feeling, leaning into his touch before I playfully put a hand on his chest and pushed him back a bit. “You mean what am I getting to drink, not you.”

“You’re no fun.” He pouted, “I’ll just sip on yours.” 

“I can take that.” I laughed pulling his frown into a smile by dragging the corners up. “You’ve already had 2 tall boys, and a shot of who knows what. I think sipping on mine is your best bet buddy.” I rested my palms flat against his cheeks as he beamed, the alcohol in his system making him extra smiley tonight. Quit being cute damn it.

He grabbed my wrists and peeled himself from my side, bringing my hands down and grabbing his card out of his wallet. “I have to go to the bathroom, please don’t get a vodka cranberry it’s too sour. Not good.”

 I laughed at his pestering. “What if I want a vodka cranberry?”

He already started in the direction of the men’s room, calling out over the loud music of the bar, “Don’t worry! You don’t!!”

I laughed, turning around and pushing my way up to the front of the bar. Luckily for Auston I wanted a spicy margarita. 

I called for the bartender to come over after he was done ringing up the last guy, but I wasn’t expecting him to be so cute. He couldn’t have been but a few years older than me and was the definition of tall, dark and handsome.

“What can I get for ya tonight?” He licked his lips as he smiled, eyes gliding over my figure and I blushed.

“Spicy Margarita please.”

“One Spicy Marg coming right up.” He he got a cup out to start making my drink, slowly looking back at me, “That guy your boyfriend?” 

“What?” I was a little taken aback, I wasn’t expecting him to be so blunt.

“Was that guy your boyfriend? You guys looked pretty cozy.” He raised a brow.

“Uh no. Just my best friend.” I wrapped my arms around myself as he finished my drink, ringing up my tab. I handed him Austons card, feeling confused, “Why do you ask?”

He frowned, his gaze going behind me, “You sure about that?”

“Sure about what?” Austons voice was gravely as he wrapped his arms around me from behind, surely giving the hot bartender a protective glare. Butterfly’s alight in my stomach at his touch. Stupid protective brotherly instincts.

The bartender gave me the card back, ignoring Auston. I elbowed him slightly, just enough so that he would remove his arms and back off. “I’m positive.”

“Then go out with me next Saturday.” He offered, writing his number down on the back of the receipt.

“I don’t even know your name.” I blushed. Auston came swiveling back around as I said that, clearly pissed off for whatever reason. “(Y/N)...” he put a hand on my shoulder, turning me to look at him as he whisper yelled. “You don’t even know this guy’s name! What if he’s a serial killer or something?”

The bartender rolled his eyes, clearly hearing Auston’s drunken accusations and pointed at the receipt, “I put it on there, but my name’s Wade.” He held his hand out for me to shake. “I can assure you, I’m not a serial killer. You must be (Y/N).” He smirked.

“How’d you guess.” I rolled my eyes as Auston was practically dragging me back to our table, “Sorry about him, he’s a little out of it. I’m sure we can figure something out Wade. It was nice to meet you.” I tucked the receipt into my front pocket, ready kick Auston's ass and trying to slow him down at the same time.

Wade laughed, “you too.”

I halted in my tracks but he could still drag me even half intoxicated. “Aus, stop.” I handed him his card back, nodding at him in thanks.

He accepted it back but his expression was hard, jaw locked. “Why did you do that?” 

“Do what?” I raised my voice because I could barely hear him bast the boom of the bass, partly because I was mad, and partly because I wanted to.

“I’m gone for what? Two minutes and you're making sexy eyes at the bartender.” He growled.

“Sexy eyes?!” I chuckled, “don’t you mean bedroom eyes? You’re more hammered than I thought.” 

“I’m being serious.” He crosses his arms.

“So am I.” I tease, “Sounds to me like someone’s jealous.” 

“Am not.” 

“I’m not playing that game with you.”

He looked frustrated, body tense and face knitted into a slight scowl. It was… kind of hot, not gonna lie. But that didn’t change the fact that he just interfered with my love life. It was nice to have some kind of romantic attention for once. Auston got it all the time, it felt good that maybe someone was interested in me that way.

“I just didn’t like the way he was…” He grumbled looking at the ground. He was swaying slightly now, so I closed the gap and looped his arm in mine.

“Aus, what did you say?” I could feel the muscles in his back tense as I placed a hand there to help slowly guide him back to our table, where Mitch and Steph seemed to be missing. 

“I didn’t like the way he was looking at you. Like he was undressing you with his eyes or something.” I blushed not expecting him to say that and avoiding eye contact. “I don’t know, I just don’t want anyone to look at you that way, you deserve more respect.” His eyes gleamed with such emotion, one I couldn’t place a finger on. Willy and Kappy lingered idly, sipping beers and probably listening to our conversation as we approached. 

I stopped Auston before we got there, looking him in the eyes. “I personally didn’t feel objectified, but I appreciate you defending my honor Prince Matthews.” His face softened and I could tell he knew he was defeated. I didn’t want to talk about it anymore so I pulled him into the booth next to me. The exhaustion kicked in finally and he leaned his head on my shoulder, clasping our hands together as he got comfortable against my side. Auston was rarely sleepy when drunk. The majority of the time, our roles were reversed. I was normally the sleepy one, and he normally knew how to have a good time. 

Kappy quirked a brow. “I thought you two would be about 5 beers deep on the dance floor by now… what gives?” I mused. Kappy had officially broken it off with Annika and Willy happened to be off again with Penny. I figured they would at least try to dance with a pretty girl if not go home with them.

“Just watching the show.” Willy nodded to Auston who had dozed off a little. “What was the fiasco at the bar about.” 

“Let’s just say someone was not happy about a certain bartender giving me his number.”

Kappy looked blank. “That’s it?”

I was confused. “What do you mean ‘that’s it’?” Kappy pulled out a $10 dollar bill and planted it in Willy’s outstretched hand.

“You guys did not place a wager on us.”

Willy smirked mischievously, “oh but we did.”

“What was it even about?” I was intrigued. Confused, but intrigued. “And why was it only $10? Aren’t I worth more to you than that?” the corners of my mouth quirked up as they laughed.

“Can’t tell you. It’s a secret. Leafs honor.” Kappy said, drawing an x across his heart.

“Leafs honor? Is that even a thing?”

“Very serious business woman. We’re sworn to secrecy.” Willy nodded solemnly.

“Rigghhhht. You guys are both idiots.” They both giggled. “I’m done with you both. No fun.” They snickered again, but decided they did want to go dance and got up from the table.

I looked at Auston. His eyes were fluttering as if he was about to fall asleep. He looked too pretty. And too peaceful, so I pulled him up. “Tired?”

He nodded as I made him get up, seemingly more awake now. I slid out of the booth ordering an Uber home. He leaned most of his weight on me as we made it outside to the sidewalk. And as we climbed into the backseat of the Uber he made himself comfortable, resting his head in my lap. I ran my fingers through his hair and along his scalp, soothing myself as my heart raced in my chest with the feeling of him near.

Why does he make me feel this way? I don’t think he does it on purpose, make me believe for a second we’re on the same page about things when we’re not. 

I hated how he gave me false hope. I've been fed it for years now.

 It didn’t go down any easier.

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Five

a/n: me - says i’ll post immediately, also me - gets hella distracted. 

March 1, 2018

The hole in the wall coffee shop was Austons’ idea. It had just opened up in a quaint area of town and he decided he desperately needed a pick-me-up after a brutal practice. 

“Babs is in overdrive. It’s prime time all the time.” He looked exhausted, sprawled out over the sofa, hockey bag and shoes strewn out in the foyer. I sat down next to him, laughing at his over dramatic nature. He lifted his head up and scooted so it was laying in my lap, my fingers going through his hair on their own accord, the strands still partly wet from his shower. “Sounds like you busted your ass today then?”

“Practice keeps getting worse. I know it’s a month till playoffs and best hockey and all that but it feels like we’re pushing harder and harder and nothing’s happening. It’s just brutal.” He sighed, looking up at me.

“If you guys are working that hard and he’s pushing you that hard then something has to come out of it. You’re probably stressed and need to take your mind off of everything. Let's go do something.”

He sat up, “like what?”

“I don’t know what's gonna relax you?”

“Uh, I know that new coffee place you’ve been talking about just opened if you wanna try that.”

 I got up grabbing my keys, “sounds good, let’s do it.”

“Right now?” He raised a brow, following me out the door, trying to step over all his equipment without tripping. 

“Yup. You’re putting your shit up when we get back by the way.”

He chuckled as we stepped into the elevator, saluting me, “sir yes sir.”

“And I’m driving.”

“Uhh no you’re not.” 

“Okay fine.” I stepped out of the elevator. Waiting until I got to the door of the parking garage to go into a sprint. I figure if he really is tired he won’t try to fight me on it, and if he isn’t then we have ourselves a challenge. “First one to the car gets to drive!” 

“Oh you’re on!” My head start gave me a decent lead but he was catching up pretty quick. The car was on the second level, and we had just made it up the stairs. I still somehow preserved my lead, and as I made it to the drivers side door, he was right behind me, boxing me in so I couldn’t move.

“Ya know, for someone who just had a brutal practice you don’t seem tired.” My eyebrow quirked up and he just laughed as I caught my breath, his arms on either side of me and palms flat against the car. He looked fucking perfect for starters, and not at all like he sprinted and climbed the damn stairs. He wasn’t even breathing hard for Christ's sake. 

“And for someone who hates running you just sprinted your little heart out.” He teased. I scrunch my nose in distaste as he laughed. I turned around, unlocking the car and booting him to the passenger seat. We climbed in and I started the engine, smirking,“we all have our days Aus.”

Auston held the door open for me as we walked into the shop and the smell of the coffee grounds immediately overtook my senses. I could tell I was about to get some good quality coffee. The aesthetic was cute, white tile flooring and marble countertops with black and wooden accents. But it was the menu that caught my eye. Pastries galore and some pretty interesting coffee orders. I figured I would go pretty basic with a vanilla latte, and Auston just ordered a black coffee. The barista seemed a little bit in shock as he placed his order, but we ended up with two coffees that said my name on them.

It wasn’t too busy so Aus found a place to sit fairly easy, and as we sat down I could see him visibly relax.

“This place is cute.” I said leaning back in the brown leather armchair across from him. The gold coffee table between us added a nice touch to the decor and I took mental notes that I could bring back to our apartment. A year of living there and it was still blank. My room was somewhat put together but the rest of the tiny space resembled Aus’ room and that was just a no go. Mostly blank walls and necessity furniture. It was about time to do something with it.

“Kinda your aesthetic don’t ya think?” His legs were so long with him leaned back in his chair. They easily closed the small gap between us, playing footsie with me while we waited for our order to be called. 

“Yeah very. Think we should decorate the living room kinda like this?” He looked at me with a weird glint in his eyes. “Aus?”

He cleared his throat, “uh, yeah. I think it would look good, with less… uh, blankness. In there.”

I smiled looking up at him, “okay good. let's go get some stuff after we’re done.”

“Sounds good.” He smiled back.

“Okay but you can’t let me get lost in Home Goods, I can and I will go ham in-“ he laughed as the barista interrupted, “Order for (Y/N), vanilla latte and a black coffee.” 

“I’m serious.” I looked back to him as I got up and went to grab our drinks. I thanked the barista and headed back as I saw a young girl talking to Auston. She had to be a big leafs fan seeing as she was wearing Austons shirsey and couldn’t have been more than 11 or 12. Her mom sat at the table behind us, leaning over her chair to talk to Auston. He looked happy, chatting to them as he signed the spot in his number on the back of her shirt.

I sat down introducing myself and handing him his drink.

“Thanks,” he gripped it smiling and took a sip, “you’re the best.”

The girl and her mom both looked at me adoringly. If they only knew.

The mom started asking him about his season and how happy she was that he was a leaf. While the girl, whose name was Jess, turned to me. “(Y/N) can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.” 

“Is Auston your boyfriend?” She beamed.

I froze, glancing at him and hoping he didn’t hear her accusation. He seemed preoccupied and I was relieved.  “No, he’s just my best friend. Do you have one of those friends you tell everything to?” I diverted hoping she would take the bait.

“Yeah! Her name’s Molly! We’ve been best friends since kindergarten.” She stated matter of factly.

“I love that.” I say sincerely, “Auston has been my best friend since kindergarten too. We grew up together.”

She looked at him and then back to me, “Are you sure you guys aren’t together?? He looks at you like you’re his favorite person in the entire world.” The intuition of a 12 year old yeesh. Wasn’t expecting to get grilled on my feelings at a coffee shop.

I chuckled, my hands starting to get clammy as I sipped on my drink, “we’re not together, but uh I’m not sure about that.”

“Sure about what?” Auston asked. Damn him. Twice.

“She’s not sure that she’s your favorite person!” Jess blabbed.

My eyes went wide and I was about to defend myself before Auston cut me off.

“What does she mean she doesn’t know?” He said playfully when answering her, almost smirking to spite me. But when his eyes landed on me they went soft, “of course she’s my favorite person.”

“In the entire world?” Jess asked hopeful, thinking she might get the answer she was looking for.

“I don’t know about the entire world….” he trailed off laughing when I playfully kicked him, hoping to neglect some of the embarrassment I felt off myself. But he smiled softly at her, still somewhat joking, “Yeah, in the entire world.” He guessed and smiled beaming his pearly whites, like he expected me to be proud or something. 

I jokingly scoffed under my breath, “don’t let your mom hear you say that.” He laughed.

They had to leave as they had errands to run and Jess gave me a hug, “you guys are so lucky to have each other. I want what you have when I grow up.” She smiled. And as much as she embarrassed me, I felt like I had at least gotten somewhere with where we stood. I had never thought in a million years I was his favorite person in the world. Even if he was mine. I was expecting his mom, sisters, maybe Mitch and the boys, and a long list of other people first. But not me. And not the favorite. 

The warm feeling in my chest faded as I realized I definitely had some ammo now. 

As we settled into our seats again, sipping our drinks, I looked at him with wide smirk gracing my features.

“What?” 

“Oh nothing. Just didn’t realize I was your favorite person in the entire world.” I teased and his cheeks tinged pink. He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees.

“You got a problem with that?” He quipped. I wasn’t expecting such a serious response from my pestering and the thumping of my heart slowed a little. “Not at all.”

The corners of his mouth turned up and then the teasing, smirking, son of a bitch everyone knew and I loved came back, “so that definitely means that I’m your favorite person too.” He finished his drink, standing up and holding his hand out to me.

I stared at it for a second, and then at him, “who said anything about that?” 

“You when you confirmed you didn’t have a problem with it, now take my hand woman.” He emphasized his outstretched hand again and this time I took it, enjoying the warmth as it entwined with mine.

I took a leap of faith, “you’re right.” We threw our drinks away and he looked back at me playfully questioning, “I am? That’s a first.” I tilted my head back laughing.

“You’re right about that too.” I said handing him the keys and then pouting, “Can we go to Home Goods now?” 

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Two

a/n: part two! i’m so excited you guys are enjoying this story as much as i enjoyed writing it! 

July 7, 2017

It had been a hell of a season, and that showed when Auston won the Calder, but he thought it didn’t count for too much because they didn’t make the playoffs. He gave it his all and I was hopeful for next year, but when it came time to go back to Arizona, you didn’t catch me complaining.

Auston decided to have a few of the guys out on the lake and it was more than needed TLC to recoup from a brutal season ending and then a long offseason. 

Willy, Kappy, Mitch and Auston were having a diving contest off the boat, while Annika, Penny, Steph and I were chillin out on lawn chairs on the dock. We were supposed to be judging their dives, if you could even call them dives. But we were mostly just nodding and telling them they looked good to get them to shut up. I took a sip of my drink, enjoying the way the sun warmed my skin when I felt water being flicked onto me. I sat my drink down and closed my eyes, trying to relax again as Auston groaned. “(Y/N)...” 

I tried to refocus on the rays soaking into my skin when I felt little droplets hit my stomach. I opened my eyes just as he started to shake his head like a dog, the water rolling off his hair and coating me in spots as the corner of his mouth quirked up. “You little devil.” I said getting up and chasing him around the dock.

I heard Willy in the background of my aforementioned chase with a little too much sass, “Actually, he’s a leaf!” And that had Kappy rolling.

It was easy to catch up to him, seeing I had no real room to work with in the first place. The dock was tiny. Our friends laughed as we played a cat and mouse game, with Auston trying to dodge me while I almost fell on my ass trying to catch him. And when I finally cornered him at the edge, the girls all cheered. Truth be told I think he let me catch him, but I wasn’t trying to call his bluff today. I wrapped my arms around his bare torso, which was already tan from two days on the lake. He held my arms around him as I tried to push him off, but he didn’t budge, instead his chest rumbled beneath my touch. So I laid my cheek on his shoulder to catch my breath, smiling all the same, “why’d ya splash me ya big idiot?”

“What can I say? You were looking a little hot, thought I could cool you off.” I wonder if he knew what his words did to me. He had too. I was glad I was standing behind him so he couldn’t see my cheeks start to burn, because it wasn’t from the sun.

I brushed his comment off, “What’s the real reason?” I twisted myself in his embrace. I was in front of him as he looked out to the lake.

He got pouty all of sudden, “wanted you to see me dive.” he mumbled and I laughed, remembering when we used to dive in the pool as kids, and if we weren’t diving, we were racing from one end to the other. 

“I can still rate it, you don’t have to be a big baby about it.” I chuckled standing back, “go ahead.”

I waited for him to execute a perfect dive, just like I knew he could, (I had seen the Triple Lux 5000 just about every time we did it), but he scooped me up into his arms instead and jumped off the dock before I could even have time to protest. I really should have seen that coming. The water was cool against my skin which was a nice contrast to the way that Austons skin burned against mine. His arms wrapped around me as we came up for air.

“She literally gives him what he wants.” Annika said as the group of them laughed. “It’s hilarious.”

“Not funny!!” I shouted back as I tried to swim away from him. But he only caught my leg and dragged me back through the water laughing. I splashed him a little on my way to the ladder and he splashed me back. I knew it could get out of control pretty quickly, and I wasn’t willing to wage a war against Auston, so I just pressed my hand to his face urging him to stop. He looked confused but I drug my fingers until my pointer was resting on his lips shushing him. Damn those were some soft lips. Very kissable lips. Not the point. We both cling onto the ladder as one of his arms tightened around me, not willing to give way yet. I could hear Steph and Penny in conversation and the others were playing cornhole or something. I could hear Mitch yelling at Kappy about how Annika was kicking their asses and Willy laughing. I turned to him. “I’m willing to make a truce.” I said very seriously. He nodded slowly and I pulled my hand away from his mouth. “I think we’re better off as a team. So we need to destroy them.” 

His eyes danced with mirth, “So schemy, so viscous. I love it. What’s your plan?” 

“You guys okay down there? It’s a little too quiet!” Mitch yelled, and Kappy added, “Not making out or anything?”

“Kas, shut it.” Annika scolded.

Auston was about to respond but I clamped a hand over his mouth again and my eyes went wide as he licked me, causing me to yank my hand back quickly. I just looked at him like ‘what the fuck’ even though I was smiling, but he seemed to get the notion that we were supposed to be quiet until further notice. I gave him a signal to jump them on 1. He shot me a thumbs up and I rolled my eyes. When we didn’t answer I could hear their feet padding over and I silently counted down from 3. 

3, 2, 1. We jumped up and yelled, “Ahhhhh!!” 

They all screamed, “AHHHHH!!!!” Penny didn’t even flinch. It was Mitch who was the most startled. He had walked backwards a little bit and fell off the other side of the dock. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Steph laugh so hard. Auston had his arms back around me, so when he fell back into the water, dying of laughter, I did too.

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Seven

a/n: i think this is by far the shortest chapter but it’s in Austons pov! i love getting comments and feedback from yall about this! so grateful that yall continue to read this story!!

September 2, 2018 

Auston's POV

Leafs media day was one of my favorites just because we got to jack around and be our goofy selves, and the pressure was off for a bit before we started the season.

I took some head shots and they had some cool lights set up on the ice, doing quick intros and videos to go up on the megatron for when we scored. It all passed by too quickly and soon enough they were ushering is into the makeshift studio for Leaf to Leaf. It was my favorite part of media day because it’s easier to be genuine with your teammates than with a random person interviewing you. I had done it with Freddy, and Enzo, but this time they had me paired up with Mitchy. Our media team was definitely going to get the content they deserved. 

We sat down, mugs at the ready, with cue cards of dumb questions we already knew about each other but apparently the public was dying to know.

“If you could take anyone to dinner dead or alive who would it be and why?” Mitch asked, “if you don’t say me, we’re not friends anymore.” 

The smug little bitch. I laughed in response, “starting off with an ultimatum? Exactly why it’s not you.”

“Oh sure.” He teased. But I thought about it for a second.

“Probably (Y/N).” I shrugged.

Mitch’s brow raised at that, “do tell why.”

“Probably just cause she always has something interesting to say and she’s super quick witted, and can keep conversation going unlike some people.” I jab and nod at him and he acts offended. “You wouldn’t want to have dinner with me?” 

I shook my head, “I mean no offense Mitchy buttttt..” he glared at me, “I’m still going with (Y/N).”

Mitch gave me another smug look and I rolled my eyes. “What was it like growing up in Arizona, what did you do for fun other than hockey?”

“Uh I think it was pretty normal. Played some baseball. Hung out with friends, swam in the summer, messed with my sisters a lot.” I laughed, remembering all the pranks I pulled on them over the years, just being an absolute shit. 

“What do you miss the most about Switzerland?” 

“Probably just the atmosphere and the people there. Everything is so clean and the food was amazing.”

After our questions they had us do the thing from Minute To Win It, I think, where you have to get the Oreo from your forehead to your mouth. It was a lot harder than it looks, but slowly and surely I nudged it down to my nose with my eyebrows. I didn’t dare look over at Mitch for fear that it would drop. I scrunch my nose up just a little and then reach with my tongue to get it in my mouth. I looked to Mitch and that’s when his dropped onto the floor. I laughed as he pouted and they gave him a couple just to eat. “Don’t tell my nutritionist I had these.” Mitch joked and the camera crew laughed. 

“That’s it guys thank you for your time!” One of the producers said and we headed back to the locker room to get out of there.

Mitch nudged my shoulder, “Out of all the people in the world you could take to dinner, and you choose (Y/N)?” Mitch laughs.

I cross my arms defensively, “Yeah what’s the problem with that?”

He walked to his stall, grabbed his things and then turned to face me, “You are an idiot.” He clapped me on the back as he walked out and I had no choice but to follow after him.

“What do you mean I’m an idiot? Why am I an idiot?”

“You’re literally the only person in the entire world that doesn’t realize how much you guys are like an old married couple or something jeez.” I quirked a brow, and he muttered something along the lines of,  “The way you two banter? Reminds me of my grandparents.”

I grabbed his arm before he walked out, stopping him, “We don’t act like a couple. Do we?” I tried to think of a time where something may have crossed a line, but everything I could mention was considered normal between us. Probably had been for a long time.

“Uh buddy, the entirety of leafs nation and their mothers, thinks you guys are dating. Hell, I’m pretty sure MY mom thinks you guys are together.”

“Uhhh.” I didn’t really know what to say to that. “How?”

“Just from your social media posts with each other and whenever you guys are together you kind of cling to each other. Come to think of it, I've rarely seen you guys separate at events or functions or get togethers. You kinda look at each other weird.”

“You pay that much attention to our relationship?” I laugh and Mitch does too.

“No, but Steph does, and I hear about it every time she hangs out with (Y/N). And that’s almost everyday. Girls apparently like to over-analyze this shit.”

To be honest this wasn’t the worst news I’ve ever heard. If people think we’re together already and think we go good together, there has to be something there that I’m not seeing.

“Okay so people think we’re a couple. How bad could it really be?” Mitch just shrugged and headed towards his car. 

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us - Auston Matthews - Three

a/n: i made up his sisters friend in this! idk really anything about his sisters or their friends lol. i hope you guys like this chapter! it’s slightly shorter, but the upcoming chapters are kinda longer (i think?!) here’s part 3!!

July 30, 2017

The nights at the lake house were fun, but it was the nights back home in the warm summer air that had me missing Arizona. Toronto was beautiful, but it was so different than what I was used to. 

I was sitting in Austons backyard, at our usual family dinner, roasting my own marshmallow. Our parents were inside with our sisters and their friends, finishing up dinner and talking about Toronto and Auston gearing up for the next season.

 It’s still July.

I excused myself, so I could get some air and think, which turned into me getting an early start on the s’mores making.

 I guess it felt like it was a little too early to think about going back. I love hockey. I love everything about it. I love the game, the season, the rivalry, the fights, the all star game, and playoffs. And all of that is great but, I really love Auston.

 It felt good admitting it to myself after such a long time. 

I think I just want to keep him in this bubble a little while longer. All to myself. It was selfish really. He wasn’t just mine anymore. Or maybe he never really was. He belongs to the city. He owns a piece of their hearts, and they own a piece of his. It’s tough competing with a love like that.

I heard the screen door shut and assumed it was him, but when Alexandria's friend Ally sat down, I was a little surprised. We were only acquaintances. I knew her through Alex and she knew me through Matt’s. We said hi, and how are you when we saw each other, but that was the extent of our friendship. I had never had a full blown conversation with her, and I didn’t know if tonight was the night I wanted to start one. 

She was beautiful, with fiery red hair, warm brown eyes, and freckles. And as she sat next to me, I suddenly felt a little insecure. I knew she had had a crush on Auston before. And to make matters worse she was never a bitch about it, or a bitch in general. She was sweet, and someone I could definitely picture him with. It only made the revelation I came to tonight burn a little. Painstakingly so.

We sat in silence for a bit, but she was the first to speak, “Hey (Y/N).”

“What’s up Ally.” I said pulling the now flaming marshmallow out of the fire to blow it out.

“Umm, how is it, ya know, in Toronto? Are you liking college?” She was being nice enough, but dancing around questions was no way to fly with me. I tried to balance my chocolate on the prongs of the stick, just so I could get it melty. It took a few tries but I finally accomplished it.

“Yeah, it took some adjusting the first semester especially with both Auston and I’s schedules, but I like it a lot. When I’m not studying it’s nice to have a break and watch his games and stuff.” I shrugged. I stuck my tongue out in concentration as I put my masterpiece of a smore together, trying to perfect it. She laughed lightly as it got all over my face, easing the tension a bit and I chuckled too. 

“It must be nice getting a fast pass to all of that stuff huh? She said getting the utensils to make her own and I nodded.

“I’ve always been a hockey fan, so it’s fun, but being best friends with him and watching him live his dream? That’s the best part.” I shrugged. I turned my head over my shoulder to look back at Aus through the screen door, he had a smile lighting up his face as he messed with my sister, probably yelling about something stupid when he looked up. I smiled, waving goofily and he did the same back. I shook my head a little, letting out a chuckle. Same old Auston.

Ally looked at me wearily, “are you sure you’re just friends?” 

And as I glanced back at him for a second time, my eyes lingered just a little too long. “just friends Ally.”

[hockeybabestars]

New Year, Same Us.

An Auston Matthews Story : Summary

based off of the secretly in love prompt list prompt 2.

You and Auston had been friends since you were in kindergarten. You were close. Maybe too close from the outside looking in. But that was just you and Auston, never separating, never leaving from the others side.

How many times did you have to tell people, "No, we're not a couple." And how many times did your heart burn wishing that you were. You were in love with him, at the very least, and you thought you did a good job at masking it from him. But apparently everyone else saw right through it.

chapter one - 10.12.16

chapter two - 7.7.17

chapter three - 7.30.17

chapter four - 12.5.17

chapter five - 3.1.18

chapter six - 7.28.18

chapter seven - 9.2.18

chapter eight - 9.18.18

chapter nine - 12.31.18 - 1.1.19

epilogue - 4.14.19

[hockeybabestars]

Marry Me - Mat Barzal Part Four

a/n: this is the last part! i hope you guys enjoy!!

Mat’s POV

I couldn’t do it. I can’t be there when she says I do to someone who isn’t me. It seemed easy enough at first. Go to the wedding, be there for her, drink away my sorrows by the end of the night. Go home drunk and sad. 

But the more I thought about it, the more the whole thing seemed like a bad idea. A nightmare really. So I dropped off a sorry ass gift, wrapped in my jersey, and left. I went to the only place where I knew I could let the frustration out and clear my head: The Rink.

I skated around a little bit and took some shots at the empty net, not really trying to get better, more so just messing around. I angrily took a slapshot which ended up hitting the crossbar and rebounding right in front of me. I buried the second attempt in the net and took a breath. Today was too much to process. I shot another puck but it ended up going high and hitting the glass and another and another until I finally got annoyed and broke my stick over my knee. 

It wasn’t that I couldn’t make it on an empty net. I could. I wasn’t really trying. I just wanted a decent reason to be pissed, and that seemed as good as any.

I threw the two halves of the sticks on the ice when I heard footsteps coming from the other direction. Thinking it was the manager, who was nice enough to let me in after closing, I mutter, “Sorry Don, I’ll be a little less aggressive on the glass next time.”

But after no answer I turn around and see (Y/N), standing on the ice, holding her heels in her hand. Her long white dress looking perfect on her. She looked absolutely gorgeous, and I was stunned.

“Aren’t you, I don’t know, supposed to be getting married right now?” I asked, as she tried to walk closer to me without slipping. 

“I couldn’t.” I skated over to her, meeting her in the middle.

“What do you mean you couldn’t?”

“I thought that it was what I wanted, but I couldn’t do it without you.”

My heart sped up but I didn’t get ahead of myself. I was mostly confused.

“You don’t need me to get married to the love of your life (Y/N).”

“But I do.” She says shakily, she sets her shoes on the ice and places her hands around my neck, bringing her body close to mine. 

“I told Nathan I couldn’t marry him.” 

I was shocked. She had been with him for forever it didn’t make sense. Was it bad to say the anger that had settled in the pit of my stomach had dissipated into joy? Or maybe hope? It was a feeling that was hard to ignore.

“And why is that?” I ask, bringing my hands to the small of her back. 

She takes a deep breath, “Because I’m in love with you.” Her eyes pierce through mine and I can’t help but smile. “And I have been since we were 15.”

Our faces tilt towards each other, lips barely touching. She doesn’t move as I bring my hand up and rest it on her cheek, thumb brushing along her cheek bones. “I love you too.” I don’t know why it came out as a whisper. I rested my forehead against hers, eyes fluttering shut as we both leaned in. Her lips were soft and sweet like her, tasting of honey. It was a slow burn, but it was intense, like we had been waiting a lifetime to do this. And we had. Her arms were wrapped around my neck playing with the back of my hair and somehow my hands found her waist. I pulled her impossibly closer to me as our lips moved in sync. She pulled back for a second to catch her breath and I looked at her through lidded eyes. She was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. She pressed her lips to mine once more and I smiled through it. Eventually I slipping my tongue in, reeling in the flavour and exploring her mouth for the first time. It was everything I ever thought it would be. I pulled back and then placed a peck on her lips, then her forehead and scooped her bare feet up off the ice and bringing her over to the bench.

“Ya know,” I mention smiling, “I always thought it would be us at the altar someday.”

I sat down, bringing her down with me. She sat in my lap with her arms around my neck and a stupid, beautiful grin plastered on her face.

“No you did not,” She laughs, “I’m pretty sure you thought I had cooties at some point.”

“I remembered how you wanted magnolias.” I said smiling, “ And how you and your cute little baby lips were technically my first kiss.” 

“We were like 5!” She exclaimed.

“Yeah, but I really knew you were the one for me after we won the Calder.”

“Mat that was such a long time ago.” She blushes.

“I knew you were the one I wanted to spend the rest of my life with when we were apart for the first time in forever after I left for New York and being with out you made me weak. I’m a better man with you.”

“I wish we would've realized sooner,” she says, “we could’ve been together all this time.”

“We’ve got all the time in the world.”

I looked into those green orbs and can tell she knows I’m right. So I don’t hesitate when I say, “(Y/F/N), I have loved you for as long as I can remember. You’re my best friend and rock in hard times. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, but I want to take it one step at a time.”

She looks at me with so much love in her eyes that it can’t help but make me feel warm inside. “Marry me… Someday.”

She nods as she grabs my face in her hands and kisses me, and I can’t help but hold her tighter. “Of course Matty, it was always you.”

[hockeybabestars]

Marry Me - Mat Barzal Part One

song: marry me by thomas rhett

a/n: hey guys!! i’ve had this finished for a while and i posted to my wattpad so i wanted to post here as well! also i looked up the championship game so if things are slightly off or wrong so sorry! hope y’all enjoy! 

Mat and I were childhood friends. I remember growing up so close to him. When we were five we would both strap on roller blades and go skating down the street. He would make me play goalie for him and sometimes he would peg me for the fun of it. In return I dressed him up in my clothes and did his makeup. And I would make him strut down the makeshift “runway”, which was really just the hallway. Our parents just thought we were being cute kids. Sleepovers at each other's houses were the weekend thing and we would always find a way to entertain ourselves, either by watching hockey or playing hockey in the driveway. Sometimes I would make him pretend to play wedding with me. I would make one of our parents pronounce us husband and wife, and those cute little baby lips would give me a tiny peck on the mouth.

When we were twelve we were inseparable, and instead of runways we would rollerblade down to the movie theater and sneak in to every movie. Even the R-rated ones. That’s when I started having nightmares. He still made me play goalie although I was a terrible one. He would score almost every time. And he would still peg me with the puck just for fun. Sleepovers were a thing of the past because of puberty or something. At least that’s what our parents said. But I missed those sleepovers, especially since It was hard to sleep in general, let alone without him. It had been routine. Play pretend weddings were replaced with questions, “What kind of flowers do you want at our wedding?” He asked jokingly, to amuse our parents.

“Probably Magnolias.” I laughed, playing along.

When we were eighteen, and seniors in high school, we were each other's support system. I was at every Thunderbirds game. I remember the night that he won the WHL championship like the back of my hand. 

Flashback

Seattle was down two against Regina in the third period of the game and the arena was buzzing in anticipation of what would happen next. The thunderbirds haven’t given up yet. Gropp let the puck fly and it went in the net bring the team within one, with four minutes left in regulation. I jumped up out of my seat, too excited and nervous to do anything but cheer. Finally with two minutes left Kolesar ripped a one-timer past the Regina goaltender, tying the game 3-3. I was sweating. I wanted this for the team, I wanted it for Mat, he worked so hard for this. After a couple minutes of holding my breath it was time for OT and pretty quickly Mat set up True for a shot which went in. They won! The team sprinted out onto the ice, gathering in a huge group hug and crying and shouting. They did it. I can’t believe he did it.

After the game the team, their girlfriends and some of their friends went to Jakes. It was the local diner they always went to after a win. Mat and his other co-captain gave a cute little speech about how hard they had worked and how proud they were of each other. The pride in his eyes gleamed and then he looked over to me. I just smiled and he ran over and wrapped me in the tightest hug.

“I can’t believe you did it. I’m so proud of you. You are such a good leader.” He released his tight hold on me, but not by much, his hands still lingering on my waist as he looked into my eyes.

“I couldn’t have done it if it weren’t for you. You were always there for me. You pushed me to be a better player and person.” I felt a little spark in my chest, and my heart sped up as he leaned in. Just as his lips were about to touch mine, Alexander True came over clapping Mat on the back.

“Barzy! What a pass man…..” Mat just gave me a sheepish smile as Alexander dragged him over to a few other teammates. He looked over his shoulder at me a little longingly, a little confused as he raised a brow, and I just laughed. But boy was my heart hammering out of my chest right now.

Eighteen was fun and confusing and heart breaking. I knew he was leaving for New York soon and I knew I couldn’t go with him. The feelings I had been hiding since we were 15 had a chance to dissipate. But the thought of living so far away had me in tears. We spent the whole summer together, every last minute dedicated to making a new memory. Sleep overs were a thing because you couldn’t separate us, even if you wanted to. I slept better when he was there. It was comfortable. It was routine. It was what I had known my whole life. The day he left was the hardest, I was a wreck. But I was so proud of him and where his future was leading him. I dropped him off at the airport with the promise that I would be visiting at Thanksgiving when I had a break from college, and that he would be home when I came home for Christmas. But that seemed like an awful long time to be away from someone you had spent your whole life attached at the hip to.

A few months had passed and I went to see him. He looked like he was in his natural element. His rookie season had been insane so far, and he looked happy. Like he was floating or something. Thanksgiving was fun because he took me to all of his favorite spots on the island and in the city. It was like I was learning something new about him and it was exciting. Of course I went to some Islander games. He surprised me with his jersey and forced me to wear it to every game while I was there. I didn’t mind wearing it though. It reminded me of him. When he came home for Christmas early it surprised me. I couldn’t help but throw myself around him, hugging him and telling him how much I missed him like crazy. And when he won the calder I was right there with him in Vegas telling him how much I believed in him. I knew he would win it. I had watched every game and knew that he had done something special.

But the following year was different. I met someone and he was amazing and kind and sweet and everything I wanted. Mat seemed distant when I told him. And when I brought Nate to New York the following spring break to meet Mat, things felt forced. He was the same old Mat to me, but with Nate he was standoffish. It seemed like he didn’t approve, but what could I do? Mat never made the jump to be with me, and we were on two completely different wavelengths. We wanted different things. And Nate made me happy. 

In March of my junior year in college Nate proposed. We had been together for a year and a half and I really did love him. I invited Mat to our wedding shower that summer.

[hockeybabestars]

Mat Barzal - Marry Me Part Three

a/n: i feel like these chapters are super short but the way i did the pov only makes sense in my brain to break it up like this... 

(Y/N)’s POV 

June 16th, 2020

I was a ball of nerves. The long white dress fit me perfectly and everything seemed to fall in place. The magnolias were scattered around even in the bridal suite. I should feel nervous but excited and more importantly confident. But all I could seem to feel was doubt. 

It had been creeping up on me this past month. I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. 

My sister took notice. She touched up my lipgloss for what seemed like the tenth time and paused when she noticed that I was out of it.

“What wrong (Y/N), it’s your big day.”

“Nothings wrong I’m just a little nervous.” My leg starts bouncing and I try to look anywhere but her. I know she can read me like a book. And that’s exactly what she does.

“I can tell when something’s up.” She pushes and I give in. I almost start crying because I don’t know what to do. But I keep it together for now.

“I don’t know if I can do this.” I let out a shaky breath and she gives me a knowing look.

“Hey it’s okay. What you’re feeling is okay.” She soothes, holding my hand.

“No, it’s not. I need to talk to Nate. Right now. Can you go find Mat for me?” 

She nods softly. “Of course.”

I found Nate’s suite down the hall and knocked before I went in.

“Come in!” He yelled. He looked handsome in his suit and I felt horrible for what I was about to do, but I didn’t want to make a scene in front of everyone.

“(Y/N) what are you doing? I’m not supposed to see you yet its bad luck.” He said trying to cover his eyes.

When I pulled his hands down and he made a pouty face. I smiled, but then I remembered what I came here to do.

“Hey can I talk to you?” I say sitting us both down on the couch.

“For sure, what’s up.”

I take a deep breath. “I don’t know how to do this really. It’s probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. But, I can’t marry you. I’m so sorry.”

He grabs my hand in his and I’m scared of his reaction, but when I look up there’s understanding in his eyes and I’m so confused.

“You love Mat. I could feel it the last couple of months and even at our wedding shower. I didn’t say anything in case you were handling it, but I can tell. I’m not mad at you for it. I love you, and this is hard, but it’s a factor of life. I just want you to be happy. And if he makes you happy, then I want you to be with him.”

“You are the most understanding man I have ever met.” I say, giving him a hug. “Thank you for caring about me and loving me the best way that you could. I hope you find someone that loves you unconditionally. You deserve the world.”

“Thank you,” he smiles sadly, “now go find Mat.” He let go of my hand and I headed back to my dressing room.

My sister was already in my dressing room, but Mat was nowhere in sight. She had a slightly panicked look on her face when she blurted out, “Mat left. He was here when I came in, I saw him leave a present on the table, but I can’t find him, I sent dad looking too. He’s not here.”

I felt my chest constrict. I might know where he is. “You drove right?” I ask.

“Yeah.”

“Can I have your keys for a little bit? And could you maybe get some of this mess cleaned up? I’ll owe you forever.”

She handed me the keys and gave a squeeze as she was on her way out. “Already on it. Now go get him.” It was times like these I was so thankful for her.

I ran out the back to find her car parked relatively close. I picked up my dress at my knees and tried to situate myself in the car with out absolutely ruining it. Or shutting it in the car door. I started up the engine and my nerves got the best of me. I drove down the street I had been down so many times before, but this time it was different. Everything was about to change.