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bunnyychi · 6 months ago

Text

A Quarter to Something

‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

Masterlist

Pairing: Zach Hadel x gn!Reader

Warnings: Depression; Burnout; Mentions of Alcohol; Drug use (weed); Angst with happy ending

A/N: Song fic spotted! I guess you could count this as a vent fic? It's a little all over the place but I still hope you enjoy! (Translated lyrics are at the bottom ^^)

‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

It was okay that no one noticed that you weren’t doing alright.

At least that’s what you kept telling yourself.

You didn’t want to bother them, where were you even supposed to start? Most of the stress that had befallen you was due to your own procrastination anyway. If you were just a little more ambitious- no.

You WERE ambitious.

The problem wasn’t a lack of motivation for the matter. But then again, you couldn’t figure out what the actual issue was.

“Alright, I’m tired as fuck. Think I’m gonna head home.”

Chris’ voice snapped you out of your spiraling thoughts. A quick glance at the monitor nearest to you told you that they stopped recording.

You weren’t an active part of any of the episodes. More so taking the role of a regular viewer that just happened to also be in the room and occasionally joining in on the conversations.

No one forced you to be a part of the channel but you liked just spending time with your friends in this way. Especially if, like today, Tomar, Chris and Zach were playing a horror game. The tension in the room and the nervous jokes or Chris’ attempts at spooking Zach were able to take your mind for a little vacation. Away from all the deadlines and responsibilities. They seemed to melt away in the dark of the room and the soft couch.

For the most part at least.

“Sure, me too, I think. (Y/n), you need a ride?” Tomar stretched after standing up. The session today had been going on for like 8 hours. So naturally his back made a sound which caused everyone to collectively ask if he was alright.

“Uh, no I think I’m gonna stay a little longer. Don’t really wanna go home into my cold room.”

This year’s winter had been surprisingly tough and of course right when you needed it the most, your heater malfunctioned. The worst part is that your landlord was on vacation and like landlords often are, he didn’t want you to call a professional and would rather look at the issue himself. “That’d just be additional costs that aren’t necessary.”. With an eye roll and a shiver you had turned off your phone after he sent you that message.

So that is why you spent the majority of your time at the office. That and the fact that you didn’t feel like being alone.

“Alright then.”

And with that, Chris and Tomar said their goodbyes.

Left were you and Zach. A comfortable silence filled the room as he turned off the game consoles and put everything away as neatly as possible. Meanwhile you stayed on the couch, watching him intently. As if him tidying up was anything special.

“You know, I could take a look at your heater.”

“Huh?”

His back was turned to you as he made his offer. You could only make out his silhouette in the dim moonlight that now flooded the room after Zach opened the curtains and opened the windows for a bit. The air in here was probably horrible now that you thought about it.

“Your heater. I mean, I’m no electrician or whatever the fuck you call the guys that fix heaters but the internet is free so…”

You laughed a little at his ramblings.

“As much as I’d appreciate it, you’d have to look at the whole unit. It’s not just mine that’s broken.”

“Oh”

Again, silence. Although now it was a little more awkward since Zach had already put everything away. Leaving him to awkwardly stand in the room, looking straight at you. Who was awkwardly sitting on the couch.

He looked kind of pretty like this.

“Uh, you wanna like, smoke something?”

“Gods, yes.”

And with that you both left the recording room and opted for the shared kitchen and living room.

You sat down again on one of the black bar stools, waiting for Zach to get his bearings. It had been a long time since you two smoked together. Not just a long time ago.. Almost half a year.

The realization hit you like a truck. Has it really been that long?

“Alright, you want me to roll one for you?” You just nodded. He stood across from you now, getting busy with the joints while you still pondered over what else you had neglected. This whole train of thought seemed surreal although not extraordinary. Most days did feel like a blur after some time.

“Here you go.” He handed the joint to you and you absentmindedly took it from him and put it between your lips.

Your head felt empty as you watched him take the lighter that was on the counter and bring it up to you.

His gaze was unwavering as he lit up the joint, you stared right back at him. A strange melancholy washing over you.

Why did you suddenly have to feel this way? Nothing really changed. Sure, university did get harder sometimes but that wasn’t anything new. Why did you suddenly buckle under familiar pressure?

A shiver ran through your body. Even though the heater in the office worked, it was still cold. The snow outside becoming a visual representation of that very feeling.

Suddenly, Zach sighed, pulling you back to reality.

“What the fuck is going on (y/n)?” He sounded angry. Why did he sound angry? Did you do something?

Of course he was angry. You hadn’t spent time like this together for half a year and now you’re pretending like nothing is wrong. He probably felt like you were just avoiding him.

Tears started to form in your eyes. Why did you always have to mess everything up? Even your friendships you couldn’t properly care for. It wasn’t enough that you were on the verge of missing a dozen deadlines, you also had to push away everyone around you that supported you.

“Hey? Fuck I didn’t mean to- what’s going on?”

His hand was now gripping your arm that was laying on the counter, softly caressing the skin with his thumb while his other hand still held the joint.

You didn’t even notice that you started crying. Frantically you tried to wipe away the tears that were running down your face with the side of your hand that was free.

“You can talk to me, you know? I’m sorry I sounded like a douche just now.”

His thumb never stopped gently going back and forth on your arm. He patiently looked at you and waited for your sobs to quiet down. Waiting for you to be able to speak.

“I’m sorry..”

It was barely audible but it was enough for another wave of sobs to start.

“Shh, shh it’s fine I’m- uhm, just, try to breathe.”

You felt horrible for doing this to him. Overwhelming him and dumping this breakdown onto him while he probably just wanted to have a chill session with the two of you. Why couldn’t you just leave things as they are?

“I just- I hate that I feel so empty.” You said, taking a shaky breath. Your eyes were averting his.

Zach’s hand left your arm and that is when you finally looked up again. He walked around the counter to sit beside you, his body turned to you and his hand finding your again. Touching it lightly, asking you to keep going.

“All this university stuff-” you gulped down another sob. “And I haven’t been handing in work for so long, I think I’m failing so hard right now.”

You took an unsure hit from your still burning joint, hoping it would ease the feelings if only for a little bit.

Zach nodded carefully. “Can I help you with anything? I’m no scholar but maybe if you-”

“No, it’s not that I have difficulties understanding or doing any of the work, it's just that I- I can’t.” You cut him off. Maybe it was rude but you didn’t want him to waste any energy in trying to help you when he couldn’t.

“And I have so many messages from professors and whatnot that are asking me why I haven’t handed something in or why I am so late with everything but I can’t even answer them.”

Zach nodded again, his brows furrowed in an expression of deep concern.

“And the worst part is, I can’t even bring myself to care.” You finished, tears forming once again.

You had no idea if it was burnout or just seasonal depression or both at the same time but it was bad. You felt so empty inside for such a long time that you didn’t even realize how bad you were hurting.

The sudden breakdown in front of one of your friends was the thing that now made you realize how bad you actually were.

For the first time in half a year, you felt something. Even if it was hurt, you were thankful.

“I’m sorry.. I can’t do much to help you then.. If it makes you feel any better though, I noticed.”

You looked up at him and his eyes were meeting yours in a way which was almost too much to bear. “Don’t think I didn't care or just chose to ignore you. I see how you come in here. How every interaction just feels like I’m talking to a shell or a husk or whatever. I just- I didn’t know if you wanted to speak about it at all.”

Now it was his turn to look away.

“You know, I think you’ve just been trying too much. You always try to put like 200% into anything when even 50% would be more than enough.”

It wasn’t funny but it made you chuckle and you could see the little smile which tugged at the corners of his mouth once he heard you.

“I’m sorry I came onto you this strongly before. I just missed you.”

His eyes met yours again and in that moment something clicked.

“Zach?”

“Yeah?”

“Can I do something?”

He nodded with a confused expression.

You slowly leant forward until your lips met his cheek, giving him a small kiss. It was an innocent gesture. The fact that he sat here with you and listened was enough. That is what you had needed for so long and even if it wouldn’t magically solve all of your problems, the fact that there was someone like him that you could turn to, made everything much more bearable.

You noticed the blush that crept onto his face, but you only smiled.

After a second of silence he spoke up.

“Fucking- gay ass interaction.” He huffed, causing both of you to giggle.

You sat there for a little longer, the conversation shifting from one topic to another as you finished the first joints.

Throughout the evening you found yourself actually laughing. And not a forced or pitiful one but actually having the urge to laugh out loud.

You were glad that the high resulted in a giggly one and not circling back around to a melancholy horror trip.

“Fuck dude that’s- no that’s actually so horrible.” You were trying to catch your breath, your body bending over as you were laughing.

“Well- I wasn’t popular I guess, drinking alone wasn’t so bad though.”

Your hand found its way to Zach’s leg, trying to stabilize yourself while also trying to show empathy after the heartbreaking story of his 16th birthday.

“If I had known you back then I would have come!”

“No! Now that would have been sad, imagine inviting like seven people and only one shows up, that's even worse than no one being there.” He was also giggling at the thought.

“Thank you though, I would have shared my bottle that I wasn’t legally allowed to drink.”

“What a gentleman.” You feigned, raising your brows at him.

Zach then stood up, preparing to roll two new joints for the two of you.

As he stood there, you couldn’t help but stare at him.

The shirt that he was wearing was unbuttoned at the top, showing way too much of his chest for your gaze to be an innocent one. You rested your chin on your hand as you continued watching him.

“What?” His fingers were still busy rolling as he questioned you. The slight smile on his face as he spoke looked way too good on him.

“Hm?” Your eyes shot up from his collarbones up to his face, a smug expression now adorning it.

“See something you like?.” He grinned at you.

Fucker.

You snatched the second joint from his hands, earning an amused ‘hey’ from Zach. Quickly lighting that one as well, you tried to block out all of the images that suddenly flooded your head. What a weird thing to think about a friend.

“I know it’s freezing like a bitch out there but do you wanna go outside?”

He almost sounded like a child when he asked that. And who were you to deny him that excitement?

Both of you quickly put on your winter clothes. The emphasis was on ‘tried’ because the both of you were not smart enough to make the process easier by simply putting aside the joints.

As the both of you stepped out on the snowy balcony, you were immediately met with a biting cold. Climate change didn’t come to play it seems.

“Holy shit- when did we go back to my place?” You joked, rubbing your hands together in an attempt to create some minimal warmth.

“I wish you were joking but I genuinely believe you.” Zach laughed but was immediately distracted by the condensation when he spoke.

You stepped over to the edge, arms resting on the railing and looking out into the street. The snow looked really soft in the dim light.

Zach came up right beside you, out of you peripheral vision you saw his face turning to you and him taking another hit from his joint. You didn’t pay any mind to it until you felt him blowing the smoke right back at your face.

“Eh! Fuck you man.” You laughed and returned the gesture, causing his head to jerk back and giggling at you.

You had definitely missed this. Although the atmosphere was different now that it was winter. Usually in summer, Zach and you would sit on the balcony for hours, Adam joining in 99% of the time. Now though, with the silence brought by the dead of night and the noise dampening snow it felt a lot more.. intimate.

“Thank you for opening up to me by the way. It means a lot.”

You nodded, a quiet ‘thank you for listening’ leaving your shivering lips.

Again, you saw Zach’s head turning to you.

“I swear to god, if you blow more smoke into my face I will throw an entire snowball into yours.” You giggled, your gaze still lingering on the snow-covered streets beneath you.

“I didn’t wanna do that.” “Yeah right.”

You could see his smile.

You couldn’t help but blush.

“You’re cold.” He stated, his deadpan delivery causing you to chuckle.

“No shit, sherlock. Got any more wise words of wisdom?” Now you turned to him, a challenging look on your face.

“Hold your horses there buddy, just wanted to ask if you wanted to come closer.”

He removed the hand which wasn’t holding his joint from his jacket’s pocket, slightly lifting his arm- inviting you.

And there it was again, that dumb smug grin that made you instinctively look away in embarrassment.

“C’mon, I know you’re freezing to death right now.”

Fucker.

You sighed internally. You knew that you didn’t have to. You could just ask to go back inside but the choice didn’t really matter. Cause you didn’t want to have the choice.

Without a word you stepped closer to him. Probably the closest that you ever were to him now that you thought about it.

His arms rested on your shoulder and pulled you closer into him. Hopefully he couldn’t hear your heart because you felt like it was gonna jump right out and strangle him in a fit of emotional overload.

It got quiet again and you felt warmer. His smell was intoxicating and as you took the last hit off of your joint you let out a sigh to which Zach looked down at you.

“I like you.”

You forced yourself to look up at him. You swore that you felt him trying to pull you even closer to him when your eyes met.

Maybe it would be okay. Maybe if he stayed with you it would get better.

“I like you too.”

He smiled down at you. No matter how long it would take for you to feel better he’d be there and he’d listen.

You didn’t kiss that night.

Because all that mattered was that you and him stood there, losing yourself in the moment.

For once willingly losing the concept of time as the clock struck a quarter to something.

‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹‧˚₊꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

(Translated by me so it's rough)

It’s a marvel

How the birds

Sit there on the power line

It surely is a miracle

But somehow

It doesn’t really matter

It’s scandalous

That they’re tearing down the house right here

It surely is a disgrace

But what was here to begin with anyway?

A city demonstrates

But I don’t care

Everything passes by me

I am the epitome of boredom

The only thing I know

Is that I can’t stand myself when I’m alone

A warm breeze blows

It gently lies down on your forehead

A warm breeze blows

Blows through your window at night

And somehow

I wish that I could be that

But it’s all over

I am the epitome of boredom

The only thing I know

Is that I can’t stand myself when I’m alone

When I was at your place

For the very first time

We laid there on the carpet

It was a quarter to something

I can’t remember how it happened

But from then on, nothing else mattered

And now it’s all over

I am the epitome of boredom

A glance at your eyes is all it takes

And I can’t stand myself when I’m alone

#zach hadel #zach hadel x reader #psychicpebbles #x reader #x gender neutral reader #gender neutral reader #gender neutral y/n #oneyplays fanfiction #oney plays #vent fic #angst with a happy ending #fluff

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cuteandhughesy · 9 months ago

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Yours | William Nylander

summary: you enlist williams help in trying to get his best friends kasperi kapanen’s attention. with a combination of practice dates, dating lessons, injuries and hiccups, william is determined to get you the guy - if you still want him that is. (in a world where covid didn't exist)

[word count] 19.6K

🎵 all I wanted by paramore, figure it out by blu detiger, iris by goo goo dolls, imperfect for you by ariana grande, invisible string by taylor swift, angel eyes by abba, yours by conan gray, sweet nothing by taylor swift, about you by the 1975, + I really like you by carly rae jepson

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

February 2021

"sorry man, traffic was crazy." the voice of kasperi kapanen has william looking up from the crisp white linen tablecloth and into the eyes of his finnish friend. he smiles, standing up to greet kappy in a proper hug, patting his shoulder twice before separating.

"no worries," willy nods, "I got here just 5 minutes ago."

kappy laughs out a breath, taking his seat. "good."

simultaneously they both pluck out the leather bounded menus from their slot, bouncing off recommendations and ideas within the walls of their shared favourite toronto restaurant.

their small chat and hushed laughter is silenced when a body stops infront of their two person table, and both sets of blue eyes landed on their waitress. smiling back at them was a tiny brunette with painted pink lips and long lashes fluttering along her cheeks. "hey, what can we get started for you guys?"

kappy's eyes dart down to her name tag before meeting her eyes again, "hello, lena, i'll take number 5 but replace the fries with steamed asparagus. just an ice water to drink."

the brunette jots down the order on her notepad before turning towards william. "and for you?"

she's blinking a him slowly and it has him clearing his throat, "i'll do the exact same, thank you."

he smiles politely while the waitress nods, grabbing their menus and leaving their table with a toothy grin.

william watches as his friend eyes the brunettes retreating figure, a low whistle blowing past his lips. kappy turns back towards the blond with raised eyebrows, "she's a rocket, no?"

william just shrugs, chuckling awkwardly.

"alright," kappy laughs, holding up his hands in defense. "how is everybody? the team, their families?"

william smiles at the thought of his teammates. "everybody is good. we miss you down here man."

"it's great to be back," the finland native says. he props a head on his fist, eyeing his friend suspiciously. "how's y/n?"

william's fingers still from where they were unwrapping the silk napkin from his cutlery, eyes darting up to find his friends. "what?"

kappy smirks, "I just haven't talked to her since like, before I got traded. you guys are still friends, right? how is she?"

william chuckles awkwardly, a blush creeping up his muscled chest. "well, actually..."

January 2020

your fingers are cold as they hold on to the mixing straw, twirling it through your vodka cranberry as your eyes observe the crowd infront of you.

a sigh leaves your lips gently. you're currently the only one sitting at your table, the VIP section that mitch marner always booked was elevated at the back of the club. it was slightly private, but still had a great view of the bar, the dj and the entire dance floor.

you're not left wallowing by yourself much longer, your good friend zach plopping down beside you, slightly sweaty and smelling of tequila. his breathlessness has you furrowing your brows, "you dancing that hard zachary?"

the leafs winger laughs, chugging down somebodies bottled water before turning back towards you. "what's up with you?"

you try not to frown, keeping a neutral expression as you look into his eyes. zach hyman was one of your best friends. the hymans grew up in the house next door to yours and because there wasn't many kids in your neighborhood, zach and yourself bonded quickly, a friendship blooming despite the four year age gap. the two of you stayed close even when zach went to high school, leaving you behind in middle school to fend for yourself, often crying about mean girls and bullies to him after the school day. despite it all, you two stayed friends. you met his now wife and grew close with her. you celebrated birthdays together, holidays together and watched with pride when zach got drafted and then traded to the leafs.

you loved him like a brother, and he loved you like a little sister. the two of you couldn't stay apart for long, and zach was determined for all his teammates to be your friends too. it wasn't long before he was dragging you to parties and events with his team: and it wasn't long before you were taken in by the group of NHLers. mitch and steph always inviting you first to halloween get togethers, morgan reilly making sure you came out to the bars and clubs, auston claiming you as a plus one to events held by the organization. it was like a small family - and you were so thankful.

surprisingly enough, you never actually wanted to date any of them. which was odd, because usually tall strong athletes were your weakness, but something about this group of guys felt different. that was until kasperi kapanen came along. you don't know exactly what changed within you, but you had the biggest crush on the finnish winger. maybe it was his curly hair, or possibly his plump lips, but you were smitten anytime he so much as smiled in your direction.

obviously, you told zach and alanna immediately, your feelings too strong and overwhelming you couldn't keep them in. "go for it!," zach had smiled, shaking your shoulders in excitement, but you denied.

I need time.

I don't want to ruin our friendship.

what if it goes wrong?

those excuses were running through your mind always when thinking about kappy. so you pushed your feelings away, choosing to admire from a distance. after awhile, zach and his wife stopped asking, and your crush became more manageable - easier to hide.

your best friends brown eyes were still burning into yours, snapping you from your own thoughts and back into the reality of the bustling club. "i'm fine," you smile.

zach sends you a look but you choose to ignore him, tilting your head back to catch the rest of your alcoholic drink to finish it off completely, the ice splashing on your mouth and nose.

"y/n." he says, his tone all too familiar. he's pitying you.

"oh look at that," you smile, wiping your face from the liquid, "I'm empty, i'm going to get another drink."

a couple people join you and zach back at the table just as you're standing up from your booth side seat.

"where you going?" morgan teases, taking a seat beside mitch and steph, auston not too far behind.

"drink," you mumble, sneaking between auston and the back of kerfoots unoccupied chair, escaping any further questions. you leave the VIP section with the feeling of zach's eyes burning into your exposed back.

you mumble apologies as you squeeze through dancing and moving bodies, trying your best not to trip over others feet as you begin your destination to the large bar. it sat circle style in the middle of the dance floor, so it doesn't take long before you make it over, flagging down the male bartender and placing your order.

this time you opt for something stronger, a shot of vodka and some fruity cocktail that caught your eye.

"cheers," you mumble to yourself, downing the shot with a full body shudder: using your cocktail as a chaser. you look out into the busy crowd for a momentary distraction but like usual, gravitational pull grabs you, and your eyes find kappy's dancing figure. he's laughing with a girl, which has you frowning, but his face distracts you from your tiny spurge of jealously, his angelic smile and bright eyes swooning you like usual.

"who are you staring at?"

you jump at the sudden voice and start choking on your drink - leaving you a coughing mess, catching your breath between each fit.

"fuck my bad," william nylander laughs, thumping his hand against your back until you can collect yourself.

"you scared me." once your body relaxes, you scold your friend, sending his cheeky smile a hard glare.

"I can tell."

you shrug, taking a slow sip of your drink to soothe your now raw throat. without much thought, you look back at your friend out on the dance floor, kappy still oblivious to your admiration.

"who are you staring at?" william asks again, straining his words in a way that has him sounding almost concerned: astonished.

you blink hard, eyes leaving kappy's figure to jump over to william's. "nobody!"

william's eyes widen at your tone but then he starts laughing that typical way he does and it has you glaring at the swede.

"what's so funny?" you seeth.

he takes a breath, "you're clearly watching somebody. you've got that sad...love sick look on your face - i've seen it before."

"what?" you screech, eyes wide from his call out.

william doesn't give you much of a chance to further question his statement, looking out into the crowd, eyes squinting as he searches the mass of people. "alright, y/n, point them out, who is it? i'll be your wing - man."

you can hear kappy's laugh in the crowd and your stomach drops as you see your mutual friend moving towards the both of you.

in a panic, you grab willy's chin between your thumb and two fingers, bringing his face back to yours. "don't look."

"why not?" his light eyebrows draw together, face slightly squished from your grip.

"willy-"

"hey guys," you're interrupted, kappy sliding up beside the two of you at the bar, "am I interrupting something?"

kappy laughs which has you blushing, dropping william's face. "no! absolutely not." you say, "you know us...just goofing around." you trail off, immediately cursing yourself for being so flustered.

"okay crazy," kappy laughs and it has you floating, the sound no doubt giving you that smitten look on your face william was seeing earlier - even with the unflattering nickname. kappy ruffles your hair and you might as well just pass away.

he flags down the bartender before ordering a beer and a margarita. "see that girl?" kappy gestures to the same one he was dancing with when you first spotted him, "she's hot right?"

you're pretty sure he's talking to william, because why would he care about your opinion on some girl, but you respond regardless, "oh yeah! super hot."

your voice is louder than anticipated and it has william nudging your thigh with his knee. even with his nudge, willy vocalizes an agreement.

"hopefully I get lucky," kappy smirks, grabbing the two drinks in between his big hands before bidding goodbye, moving through the dance floor and back towards that girl, your eyes not once leaving him.

that is, until you hear william gasp slightly. that bubble of panick is back swirling in your chest, and it has you spinning around to meet william's wide eyes. "kappy?" he asks you, his attempt at a quiet whisper very much failing.

you shush him loudly, smacking his peck with your open palm. "stop. quiet, I don't want to talk about it."

"is that who you were staring at with that face." he makes a weird gesture towards your head and it has you slapping his hand out of the air.

"please, willy, you can't say anything! only zach knows about my stupid crush, and it's embarrassing okay? look at that girl out there! he would never go for me, and that's okay! i'm okay with just admiring from afar and just strictly crushing. so please, keep this to yourself - I'll get over it-"

william slaps a hand over your mouth which has you effectively shutting up, your rambling being put to a halt. you are sending willam daggers because of his action, an unimpressed pull to yours eyebrows. but william isn't worried about that. he's looking at you gently, with what you can only assume is pity for you and your stupid feelings. "don't talk yourself down like that," he says.

your shoulders drop slightly. his press on your mouth eases up enough for you to slip your tongue out, prodding the palm of his large hand. he just smirks at your attempt to gross him out and it has you becoming even more annoyed with his hold on you. not long passing until you're mustering the strength to grab his wrist and pull his hand down. "why didn't you remove your hand?"

he just shrugs before wiping his hand against his shirt. "a little spit never hurt anybody."

william's attempt at trying to make you laugh is unsuccessful. you're still staring up at him with a worried expression, knawing the inside of your cheek. your eyes dart out into the crowd before back into his. "promise me," you whisper, "don't say anything."

william nods gently, your anxiety practically leaking out your pores and seeping into his own. his stomach swoops. "I would never." your face still holds a look of being unsure and it has him breathing out a laugh, "I promise."

that has you sighing, your body visibly relaxing at his words of a promise. without much thought, for what feels like the millionth time that night, your eyes slowly make their way back to your mutual friend on the dance floor, still laughing and dancing with that smooth legged blonde girl. it has you frowning once more, your fragile heart cracking.

william can see it on your face, the way it drops in uncertainty. the look of longing and unrequited love swimming in your eyes. he knows all too well. without thinking much more, he blurts out, "I'll help you."

shoulders still deflated you turn your body back towards william completely. "what are you talking about?"

william leans his body against the bar top, "there's no reason that it shouldn't be you he's with, right? you're just as beautiful and capable as that girl he's with now. if you want kappy, i'll help you get him."

your brows are raised slightly, the disbelief evident. "how?"

william shrugs at first, because he really hadn't thought that far ahead. "im his best friend," he settles on, "I know everything about him. what he likes, what he doesn't...his type and what he looks for in a girl. we can meet up when we can...and i'll show you where he likes to go on dates and what he likes, essentially preparing you for when its the real thing with him."

"really?" you ask gently, "why would you do that?"

he shrugs again, "he needs somebody to whip him into shape, who better than you?" something changes in his eyes and he laughs gently, "plus I won't have to see your love sick face anymore."

you smile softly, pushing his shoulder without much force. "okay," your words are hopeful, "but I feel like I owe you-"

william shakes his head, "no no," his hands held up in defense.

he can see your thoughts turning in your head, and then your smiling brightly. "yes, yes. elizabeth! you think she's hot right?"

william gulps. you and elizabeth had been friends since college, and most of the time she joined you on nights like these with the team. glued to your side at bars, clubs and dinners: the team was familiar with her soft face. she was very beautiful, any single guy into woman would think so. "yeah, she's nice." william agrees.

"okay! so, i'll help you." you're smiling, hands grasped together. "you've been single for so long, willy, this is your chance. i'll help you with elizabeth if you help me with kappy."

"okay," william says after a beat. your smile gets larger and it has him mimicking you, his shiny teeth smiling back at you. "I would've done this regardless, even if elizabeth wasn't involved though."

"i know," you down the last bit of your drink, "but I felt bad- and now we are helping each other."

william just nods, watching as you swallow. the cold drink slipping down the corner of your mouth and down your chin until you're wiping it away. "alright," he says, hand extending out infront of him, "we got a deal."

you place your hand into his, shaking it twice. "we got a deal." you repeat.

—

it's not until two weeks later when willy texts you and asks to meet up. you're almost shocked at first, thinking that nights conversation was a fluke. him promising to help you get through to kappy was long forgotten - but clearly not.

willy

hey, we have an off day. wanna get

food and talk kappy plans ??

y/n

oh right

y/n

sure!

y/n

i mean if you want to !

willy

haha 🤣

his next text is the location of what looks to be a sandwich place, only 10 minutes from your apartment. you speed getting ready, throwing on the first thing you deem presentable in your closet before throwing your hair up in a ponytail, not bothering with much else before heading out the door, making the short drive to the address you'd been sent.

you're slightly breathless when you get there, pulling open the glass door only for your nostrils to be assaulted by the scent of fresh bread and coffee beans. the low light ambiance grabbing your attention immediately, a feeling of calmness flowing into your senses.

william is already there, his eyes catch yours from where he is ordering at the register. "there she is," he mumbles, "hey, what do you want?" he's beckoning you over to the cash, his loud voice catching the ears of others, which immediately has you blushing, speeding over to your friend to ensure he wouldn't yell out again.

"I can pay," you tell him.

william shakes his head, "don't worry about that - just order whatever you want."

you smile politely and give your order to the young woman behind the counter and you do let william pay, which has him smiling triumphantly. not long after your drinks are being called out, william leaving the small table the two of you had coined to collect the order.

when he returns, you're just slipping your jacket off, leaving you in your light gray mock neck top. he slides your cappuccino as well as an unknown bag towards you - which is holding a croissant sandwich that you definitely didn't order. "This isn't mine."

willy has an identical sandwich that's he's already starting biting into, "Oh, I ordered it before you walked over, I wasn't expecting you to be here so soon."

you nod, "I wasn't expecting you to be here so soon...or at all." william is chewing slowly, brows furrowed at your confession, "I just, I thought maybe you had forgotten about this whole..."

"plan kappy." he finishes after a swallow.

you nod, "yeah."

"I promised I would help you," william says, "I was just collecting my data." you roll your eyes playfully when he stars to chuckle. you're wringing your hands nervously, eyes surveying the restaurant moving around you.

william sighs, pushing the sandwich closer to you. the crinkle of the paper snapping you out of your own head and back to him and the cheesy sandwich. "you're fine, just eat before you get hangry."

you scoff, "I don't get - "

william gives you a looks that has you cutting yourself off, because yes, you did get hangry. in that moment, you stomach betrays any argument you may of had, rumbling at the thought of food. grabbing the sandwich, you don't hesitate, taking a very unattractive bite. you moan out, licking some mayo off your thumb.

william laughs gently. "i'm sorry it took so long for me to reach out. the teams been really busy and i've been so exhausted. fucking time zones."

"it's okay," you say between chewing. you could understand the pure exhaustion that would come with playing a physically demanding game all while trying to be awake and adapt to the east coast time change.

"it's not really," william sucks some spinach looking drink up through his straw, "I should've at least told you I was busy and planned a meet up. I hope I didn't make you feel like, i don't know...shitty."

"it's fine," you reiterate, "we never even set a timeline, honestly! for a little bit, I thought I dreamed that whole conversation, which was a whole thing." your rambling has william nodding along with an amused smile. "but then you texted me today so I was definitely certain it was real...so now i feel less crazy." the look he's giving you has you stopping, covering you eyes. "sorry, i'm just feeling anxious about this whole thing. i'm so clueless."

"you're not clueless," william says. "we will figure it out."

you gulp, dropping your hands from your face, "what do I do?"

"first things first," william says, dusting his hands off before leaning into the table and closer towards you. "kappy isn't the best when it comes to girls - sure, he can flirt but he's not a boyfriend kind of man, more of a one night stand...enthusiast. I assume you don't want to be a one night stand?"

you shake your head no, "okay, so. how should I act? how should I dress?"

"act like yourself," william says immediately, "you have the best personality. you just need to be more confident when it comes to him. kappy likes confidence."

"confidence, okay. fake it till i make it."

he smiles, "fake it till you make it." willam agrees. "I picked this place because kappy likes this spot. he comes here for breakfast a lot. so if you can, bring it up in conversation."

you smile, "I can do that."

william finished his last bit of food. "saturday night, we were planning on going out for a couple drinks to celebrate mango's birthday."

you nod, taking another huge bite of your sandwich, seemingly unaware of what william was suggesting. "okay." you hum through your mouthful of tomato and cheese.

he laughs, "okay, so, come. kappy will be there and we can start this whole thing."

"right! okay." you try to suppress the nervous butterflies fluttering around your belly, bashing against your sides in a way that has you feeling weak. "you'll be there too, right? In case I need your help."

"you'll be great, don't worry." he says, "and If i wasn't going to be there I wouldn't of invited you," william holds a teasing grin.

"right," you hum, rubbing the back of your neck. "what should I wear?"

william shrugs, "whatever you want. he likes the colour red...if that's any help."

"red, okay." you're already taking mental notes of what's in your closet, flashes of articles dyed those ruby tones you needed. "I can do that."

"alright, now," william stands from his set, his chair scraping along the tiled floor loud enough to leave you cringing. "let's go around the city for a bit, i'll show you some of his favourite spots."

you're still sitting at the table, a bit dumbfounded as you watch him slip his puffer coat back over his broad shoulders. william chuckles, grabbing your garbage off the table, "are you coming? or am i going by myself."

"shut up," you hit his bicep, standing up less than gracefully. "you're so impatient."

"you hurt me, y/n," he feins pains, grasping his left peck like his heart was broken, "after all I've done for you."

you're laughing beside him which has william stopping his antics, releasing his chest while smiling down at you.

"okay, drama queen, where to next?"

william leads you through the city for the rest of the day, pointing out kappy's favourite boutiques, eateries, bars and anything in between. the two of you walk until dusk settles over the sky, william treating you to another meal before the two of you part ways, a promise from william that he will text you before the weekend with the finalized plans.

you got to bed that night happy with a stomach full of mouth watering chinese food (which you successfully convinced willy to get, claiming he could be unhealthy just for one day.) a smile adorned your face as you close your eyes, your plan with willy feeling successful- and it hasn't even begun.

you couldn't wait for saturday.

—

william does text you in the days leading up to saturday. offering you a couple more quips about his best friend as well as keeping you updated about plans and game schedules alike. it's friday night, just after 11p.m, when william texts you the finalized location and who's all going and so on and so forth.

the thought of the following evening has you giddy, brushing your teeth for bed with a little extra sway in your hips, not even caring when toothpaste falls from your tube and lands on your top.

you wake up saturday in the same mood, a smile adorning your face even though the nerves were running ramped through your veins.

you force yourself to eat a brunch, eggs and real cheese smooshed in between your last everything bagel, along with orange juice poured over a concerning amount of ice that you would inevitably knaw on once the liquid was drank.

your phone bings, bringing you out of your quiet meal.

zachary

hey. what are you doing tonight? did you want to come watch thatnew movie we've been talking about seeing?

you frown at your phone, the message from your best friend pushing down at your heart until it feels heavy. without meaning to, you hadn't texted or talked to zach in a week. the combination of two busy schedules along with yourself and williams escapades, zach had been put on your back burner.

y/n

hey

y/n

i'm actually going out

y/n

for mango's thing

y/n

william invited me

y/n

i'm sorry

zachary

don't apologize! it will be fun

we can do movie night another

night 😊

zachary

so...william invited you? 😏🧐

y/n

yes

y/n

don't send me those emojis!😤

y/n

william and I are friends

y/n

actually i'm helping him with something

zachary

oh yeah? and what's that

y/n

i'll tell you when i see you next

zachary

oh god

the conversation with zach lasts a little longer, and then you have to shower, so you bid goodbye to your oldest friend with a promise to hang next time he had a free evening.

you take your time getting ready, blow drying your hair straight until the heat has you sweating, leaving you to stand naked in the star fish pose in front of your stand alone fan until you can cool down.

as you're finishing up your makeup, swiping your pen along your eyelid to create a black wing, you almost wish kappy was there - that way he would be able to see all the effort you were putting in for him: for his attention and affection.

you were kind of left exhausted before you got dressed.

you slip on your favourite black mom jeans, the denim immediately hugging and wrapping around the curves of your hips. a top is strappy in the back, exposed your tanned skin from the neck down, the cherry red tank top sitting loose and plain on your front. you're stumbling over yourself as you try and zip up your black booties on your way to the front door, grabbing your bag and your thin wind breaker that definitely wasn't a match for the canadian winter air, and head out the door.

you arrive at the bar 15 minutes later, tipping your uber before exiting the warmth of the car and into the early february air.

you do a half run half walk to the front door, pulling open the heavy slate of oak until the warmth and sticky sweet smell envelope you, sucking you into the bar with ease.

"fuck," you mumble, your teeth chattering at the last bit of cold. you slip off your next to nothing jacket and hang it over your bent arm. you try your best to fix your hair in the terribly scratched mirror that hangs on the wall next to you, checking your teeth for any lipstick or seeds from your bagel earlier.

the clock alerts you that it's 8:45 p.m., 5 minutes after the time william said kappy would be there. with a sigh, you decided your presentable enough, moving around the small group gathered near the front and walking further into the bar.

"there she is!" you hear the distinctive voice of andreas johnsson call out to you, his deep accent bringing a smile to his face. you find them almost instantly, a smile tugging up at your mouth until your moving, joining your friends at the high table and chairs they've taken over.

"happy birthday," you sing song once you get to them, wrapping andreas in a hug until he kisses your cheek, squeezing you tight before releasing you.

"thank you," he laughs, "you look smokin," he teases, spinning you around until you're both laughing.

"whatever," you mumble. "oh," you gasp, hands pulling at your bag until you can reach inside, "I have something for you!" your fingers latch onto the crisp envelope that holds a birthday card, pulling it out and slipping it infront of him. "you don't need to open it now, but I didn't want to forget."

"you're too kind," johnsson says, giving you one more squeeze.

william is already standing when you meet his eyes, and he sends you a knowing smirk before pulling you into a hug. "he's at the bar," his words are whispered against the shell of you ear. it has you nodding, pulling away.

you greet timothy liligren and rasmus sandin who are accompanying the other chairs: warm greetings sent your way from your swedish friends. william takes your bag and coat from where they are draped over your arm, hanging them on the back of the empty chair beside him.

you go to take your seat but willy nudges you, eyes darting over to the bar. you see kappy - he's laughing with mitch and some brunette girl, all sipping drinks as they converse.

the hint was taken, "i'm going to grab a drink," you say, making your way over until you're standing in front of them.

mitch sees you first, "hey! how's it going?" he pulls you into a brief hug, which you return delicately.

"good, good," you nod, releasing mitch. before you can freak yourself out and over analyze everything about yourself, you're turning your body so your entire front is facing kappy. you're so close to him, if you lean in anymore than an inch, your boobs would be pressed against his bicep.

"hey kappy," you smile.

he doesn't move to hug you but he smirks all syrupy at you, eyes flicking down to your top. it give you a boost of confidence, a blush creeping up your chest and burning the tips of you ears.

"hey crazy," he teases, "you look good."

you breathe out a laugh, blinking a few times. "thanks," then you think about what willy said: confidence. so you decide to say, "I know I do."

once you say it, immediately you know that's not the right thing to say and definitely the wrong kind of confidence: more cocky if anything. it's confirmed by the look mitch sends your way, the mysterious brunette girl snorting into her drink.

"I mean...no. I don't know I do - or, no! yes, thank you."

kappy laughs, gripping your shoulder and giving it a gentle squeeze. "you want a drink?"

you nod, saving yourself any more embarrassment by staying silent. kappy flags down the bartender, ordering you a drink. a moment later, he's passing you a corona and you send him a tight lipped smile - taking a sip of the bitter drink and praying that your disgust isn't evident on your face.

mitch has left in the time your drink was ordered, leaving yourself with your crush and that same girl, who still hasn't introduced herself but instead orders another drink for herself. when she turns back around to face you, you are smiling expectantly at her but she just looks down into her drink.

you sigh, "hey, i'm y/n."

she finally meets your eyes, "lacy."

you try not to scoff at her attitude, raising your brows high. kappy doesn't seem to mind his...friends? attitude, talking over his shoulder at liligren.

"hey, did you want to dance?" the words leave your mouth before you can think it through. kappy looks back down at you.

"dance?"

"yeah!" you smile, "I love to dance! do you like dancing?"

kappy runs a hand through his hair, "i'm a terrible dancer."

"me too, that's what makes it fun."

"alright," kappy smiles. he grabs your hand, holding your palm against his own. immediately your knees go weak, letting him pull you away from the bar and out onto the makeshift dance floor. it isn't too busy, just enough people to make you not feel like you're being watched.

he dances fine, you think. his hands placed on your body appropriately, spinning and twirling you around until you're laughing, blushing and sweating.

over his shoulder, you catch the steel blue eyes of willy, who smiles encouragingly, tossing you a thumbs up that has your eyes widening, gesturing back and forth between him and the man you were dancing with: like a kid trying to tell their parent to stop embarrassing them.

william laughs, you can hear it from where you are. it has you joining in, rolling your eyes playfully and throwing him your middle finger subtly.

"you good?" kappy asks, his breath tickling your hairline.

your face falls, like you've been caught doing something you shouldn't. "yeah."

you're looking up at him when his eyes flicker away, looking behind you...and then he's pulling away. "lacy is calling me over -i'm going to grab another drink."

"oh," he's already walking away before you can finish, "okay. sounds good."

your face falls in a slight disappointment, standing alone in the middle of the dance floor while couples and friends move sound you. once again, you catch williams eyes.

his brows pull together in question which earns a shrug from you. your actions clearly enough communication for him and then you're watching the blond stand from his seat, slipping in between bodies until he's front of you. "what happened?"

"I don't know," you whine, "he said lacy was calling him over- said something about getting another drink."

"you didn't want to join them?"

you scoff, "lacy is kind of a bitch."

william laughs deeply. saved from the embarrassment of standing on the dance floor, he's pulling you into his body, hand resting heavy on your waist while his other clasp's one of yours, swaying the two of you to the sound tequila.

"should I go up there?" your question has william sighing.

"no. give it a minute. you don't want to look too...I don't know...clingy."

a frown pulls at your lips, "but I am clingy."

your words sound so genuine it has william smirking down at you. "that's okay, but he won't like that."

you nod, eyes surveying the room around you. the air grows silent between the two of you for a few minutes, the both of you just bathing in the calmness of one another's presence. it's you who breaks the silence though, a distant look on your face. "why is it he's always with somebody else?"

william looks at you sadly, which has you immediately regretting your question. you almost want to take it back but then he's sighing, "kappy is...complicated. he likes the attention."

"do I not give enough?"

he looks at you in shock, "what? you give enough. he's just...," he trails off, taking a deep breath before continuing, "too clueless to see what's right in front of him."

you don't say anything, too busy watching the way williams eyes soften.

he clears his throat, "that's you, by the way."

his tease has you giggling. "thank you, I would've had no idea who you were talking about if you didn't clear that up."

your banter has him smirking, sending a quick pinch to the dip of your hip where his hand is sitting. "loser," william whispers, his usual grin softly adorning his face. his face changes just as the song does, "also did I see you drinking a beer? you hate beer."

the reminder of your beverage has you groaning, that sour taste attacking your tastebuds once again. "oh my god yes," your head lulls down, "don't remind me." he laughs.

"wanna get something new to get your mind off it?"

you're gasping at that, "yes, I thought you'd never ask."

then the two of you disconnect. the dance floor has become more crowded since you first walked out onto it, bodies pushed together that effectively block a clear path. william's hooking a finger through the belt loop on your jeans, dragging you behind him as he uses his sheer size to make way through the crowd, bringing you both to the bar. you're not sure why you're blushing.

"done dancing?" kappy teases when he sees you again. you laugh awkwardly, shrugging.

"yeah, my partner kept stepping on my feet."

william scoffs, "whatever." but then he's laughing, flagging down the same bartender from earlier in the night until he catches their attention, ordering himself a diet coke and you a vodka cranberry. your mouth is salivating in anticipation at the thought of your favourite drink.

"he's always been a terrible dancer," kappy teases his friend, bumping williams shoulder with his own.

expect william doesn't laugh too hard, only a breath of a small chuckle leaving his lips. "at least I don't leave my partner on the dance floor."

his tone has you gulping, eyes darting between the two hockey players. "willy," your words come out between a forceful whisper and a shaky scold.

kappy throws his hands up in surrender, a smirk still on his face. "I was being summoned."

for the first time, lacy speaks up. "yeah that's totally my bad...I was lonely." her voice is more slurred then the last time you heard it, eyelids falling heavy in a way that very much gave away the state of her intoxication. "I just didn't want to stand alone, you get it, right girl?"

yeah, you think, you do get it because you were left standing alone in the middle of the dance floor because she was lonely - but you just nod, too sober to argue with a drunk girl.

william hands you your freshly made drink, to which you take roughly, chugging the entire thing in one go. the next few moments are kind of a blur. you place your empty glass on the counter, leaning close to lacy to do so. lacy grabs your arm, mumbling something incoherent in between quiet burps and then she spews. literally spews.

you jump away but it's no use, lacy had thrown up the contents of the night all over your front, the hot liquid soaking into your clothing and sticking to your skin. you can feel the colour drain from your face. "oh my god," you cry.

"oh shit, are you okay?" kappy asks, hands hovering over lacy's back.

"i'm sorry," lacy mumbles, wiping her mouth with the back of her tanned hand, "I didn't feel well."

"oh my god." you repeat.

"are you okay?" william is the one asking this time, expect he's asking you, the recipient of the vomit attack.

you take a deep breath through your mouth, too scared to use your nose. you look down and see you are completely covered, all the way down to your black shoes. vomit puddles on the floor below you and you start panicking, shaking your hands in despair.

"I need to go outside."

"yeah, okay," william nods, guiding you by the back of your neck towards the exit. this time, he doesn't need to use his body to make a path, the pure stench and look of you has people clearing the way.

you can hear kappy flagging down some help for a clean up just as william is opening the door, a wave a cold air hitting you. your wet clothes immediately feel 10 times worse. "what do I do?" you cry. you can also assume you're standing like a robot, making sure none of your limbs touch one another. "I have emtaphobia."

"emta- what?" willy asks, eyes swimming with a look you can't decipher.

"I'm scared of puke, william." the use of his full name has his eyes growing wide. "what do I do? I can't keep these clothes on."

"no, you're right," he trails off, looking around frantically for a moment, "okay! I have some clothes in my car. you can change."

your panick is still swirling deep in your stomach, your fear so badly taking over. you try to distract yourself with the press william had on your back as he guides you to his car, taking shaky deep breaths as best you can.

the beep of the car is another distraction, the lights momentarily shocking you. william rounds you both to the trunk, popping the hatch open. it's relatively clean back there, a few rolls of hockey tape and some loose articles of clothing spewn about, not doubt thrown astray form driving. "okay, just take what you need."

you nod.

"do you need help?"

you survey yourself again, "no, umm, I think I got it. just...don't leave. turn around or something."

he turns around.

"no peeking," you try and joke, laughing awkwardly at yourself to save yourself from crying.

"I would never," williams teasing has you feeling a bit more relaxed, your hands that were previously shaking now much more manageable. you pull your tank top off, and miraculously avoid getting any of lacy's vomit in your hair. your bra is also affected, which has you surveying the dark parking lot to make sure nobody could see you. the coast is clear and you unclip the undergarment, letting it fall to the ground along with your tank top. you quickly grab a blue hoodie, the maple leaf logo embroidered on the front. you pull it over your head, the number 88 sitting heavy on your collarbone.

you make quick work of your jeans, throwing on a pair of sweatpants after you kicked off your shoes, leaving you standing in just your socks. "okay, i'm done."

william turns around to see you standing there, a sad look on your face. your hands are gripping his sweatpants tightly, preventing them from falling down. "i'm so embarrassed," you finally say, tears brimming your waterline.

"don't be," he strains.

"why did it have to happen infront of kappy? I probably looked ridiculous."

"if it's any consolation," william says, "everybody looks ridiculous covered in puke."

that has you laughing slightly, a single tear falling down your cheek that has you using your shoulder to wipe it away. "can you - umm, call me a cab?"

"no," william says quickly. your brows raise, ready to lay into him. "i'll drive you home."

"you don't have to."

"I want to." he doesn't look at you when he says it, busy shutting the trunk of his vehicle. willy steps over the pile of pukey clothes by your feet, "here's my keys, start the car and i'll go get our stuff from inside."

you don't argue, feet too cold from the frosted concrete. that has you getting into the passenger seat and letting the car warm up. it isn't 5 minutes later that william walks back out of the bar, your jacket and purse over his shoulder, a plastic bag in his hand. you don't see where he goes as he rounds the back of his car, the sound of the trunk opening and closing just before you see that head of blonde hair again, william walking over to the driver's side and getting in.

"i'll wash them for you," he is rubbing his hands together, trying to warm them up, "don't even worry about it."

he's talking about your clothes. your red top and favourite pair of jeans. you feel like crying again. "thank you." you sniffle as he's putting the car into drive, "I would've just thrown them out."

he laughs lightly, "no doubt."

the drive is silent for the first 5 minutes but then william is sighing, pulling up to a red light. "i'm sorry that happened to you. I hope you're not scarred from ever accepting my invitations to go out again."

"never," you laugh, "well, as long as lacy isn't there." despite your laughter, your voice is very much serious and william doesn't doubt it.

"lacy, never again. got it."

"thank you for helping me, willy." you whisper a few minutes later. you recognize that your close to your apartment complex, the neighbouring buildings providing a sense of familiarity.

"always," he says, "promise."

you nod at him softly, a sweet smile on your face.

—

the next morning when you wake up it's with a groan, the memories of the night before heavy on your brain. after william dropped you off, you obviously showered, your damp hair against the pillows a reminder that you are clean - your momentary surge of panic ending.

but then your embarrassment comes back. you can only imagine the sheer terror on your face the moment you were douced in throw up - the miniature freak out that followed with it. kappy hadn't even checked in on you: when it happened or after the fact.

you groan again, tossing back your blanket at the same time you grab your phone off the night stand: frowning at the lack of texts from kappy once more. suddenly you're hit with a wave of loneliness, wanting nothing more than the comfort of your best friend.

y/n

can you come over ?

y/n

something I want to tell you about

the phone dings a moment later

zachary

of course. want a sandwich from tony's?

y/n

yes

y/n

please

zachary

bacon egg and cheese okay?

y/n

yes please 👍🏼

when zach lets himself into your apartment, you're lounging on the couch, still wearing your pyjamas and glasses, slippers covering your feet.

"hey," he calls out, kicking the door shut with his foot. you push to sit up, grabbing the drink tray from his arm that's also holding a paper bag with yummy breakfast sandwiches. the puke incident still has you feeling a bit weary of eating but you do your best to ignore it, thanking zach as he takes a seat beside you.

he must be able to feel your anxious energy. "something happen last night?" his voice is cautious, unwrapping his food.

you take a deep breath, taking a small bite of your sandwich and chewing it slowly. "I got fucking puked on."

he sucks in some air, "you okay? how did that happen?"

you nod, "i'm fine. it was this girl..."

there's something you aren't saying, zach call tell. the way you won't meet his eyes, running your hand through your un-brushed hair. "what else?"

he knows you too well, you think. "I got puked on...in front of kappy and totally, like, panicked. I had to fucking strip down in the parking lot behind willy's car. oh my god, and the girl, lacy, was totally there with kappy and I just," you take a deep breath, "i'm so embarrassed. I looked so stupid standing there infront of him covered in his dates vomit."

as if zach can sense your feelings, he moves closer, pulling you into his side for a much appreciated hug. you love him so much, you think. because instead of your best friend teasing you about how you were still crushing on his teammate, zach was empathetic with you. "don't be embarrassed," he says, "anybody would look silly covered in puke."

you laugh, "that's pretty much what willy said."

zach raises his brows, "we know you too well I suppose."

you nod gently, bringing your thumb to your lips and beginning to pick. "there's something else."

zach just nods, urging you to continue.

"willy, he umm, he's helping me with," you ponder wording, "getting kappy to ask me out."

"what?"

"he's essentially like, training me for a date with kappy." zach laughs which has you joining in. "I know it sounds stupid! but it's kind of working! he danced with me for a bit last night - he did leave me on the dance floor though which was a whole different thing-"

"he left you alone on the dance floor?" zach sounds angry.

you shake your head, "it's okay, though. willy saved me - anyways, besides the point. willy is helping me with kappy and in return I told him I'd get him a date with liz."

"liz?" zach asks, brows raised. "like your friend elizabeth?"

you nod.

"does liz know?"

you shake your head, "absolutely not. I don't want her to feel like a pawn."

zach breaths a laugh, "she is a pawn."

"no! well, yes," you nod, "but no! because willy didn't even ask! I was the one who offered after he mentioned helping me."

"hold on," he says, eyes squinting, "willy just...offered to help you get with his best friend?"

you purse your lips, "pretty much."

"a bit weird, don't you think?"

your brows draw together, "no. we are friends! he's just helping me out."

"okay."

"why? do you think it's a bad idea?"

"no. not if you're happy with it."

"I am," you smile automatically, "I think it will work."

zach mimicks your expression, "then I think it's a great idea." he takes another bite of his food.

"okay now help me get my mind off last night," you shiver, taking another hesitant bite of your breakfast.

zach laughs around his mouthful, "have you watched the new episode of love is blind yet?"

and then he's diving into an explanation, insisting you both watch the episode before he has to go back home for his pre-game meal and nap. the conversation between the two of light hearted and a much needed healer for your brain rot. it's nice and even after zach leaves, you don't think about the night before, sucked into the rest of the show.

the next couple days are pretty quiet. the leafs have a few games back to back at the beginning of the week, and you're pretty swamped at your job as well. but then wednesday comes, and the leafs have an early afternoon game - leaving the evening open.

that's how you end up at williams apartment wednesday night: feasting on a balanced meal william insisted you would enjoy (it was actually really delicious but you kept teasing him that it wasn't- news flash: he saw right through you).

"why are we watching this movie?" you question, slouched down on the plush couch cushions of williams expensive sectional, one of his dogs curled up at your feet.

"it's kappy's favourite," william says. he's in the same slouched position as you, shoulder almost pushing into yours.

you groan, "seriously? the godfather is his favourite movie."

you can't hide you look of distaste, and it has william giggling at your expression. he shrugs, "that's what he says." he pauses, rolling his head against the cushion so he can look at your face, "what's yours?"

you ponder for a moment and then smirk. "you can't judge me."

"never," he promises automatically.

"if I had to just pick one... it would be tinkerbell."

you expect him to laugh at you, call you a baby and then explain why something like fight club is a much more suitable film. but instead he nods, "respectable."

"think so?" you ask, brows raised in a slight disbelief.

"yeah," he laughs slightly. "is that alright tinkerbell?" william is back to his usual teasing laugh and that has you sighing, a playful roll to your eyes.

"if anything, you're tinkerbell - not me."

william laughs loudly, "well I wasn't going to say it but..."

you giggle, pushing his shoulder gently. "what's your favourite movie?"

"I don't have one." he says after a few beats.

you gasp, turning your head towards him. william is still looking at you, a small smirk tugging at his lips. it has you taking a shallow gulp. "okay, well then i'm going to tell people it's tinkerbell as well."

you expect a protest but instead, "okay." that same expression on williams face, all soft and gooey until your stomach flips. "hey," he whispers, "we have the family skate friday. you should come."

"should I?" you tease.

"I want you to." as if william realized what he said, he sits up quickly, cleaning his throat, "kappy will be there after all."

you follow suit, sitting up, "right, of course."

he smiles, "i'll pick you up friday then."

you can't help but smile in return, "alright."

the clock that hangs on the wall tells you that it's late, well past midnight and it has you sighing: already dreading your early work day tomorrow. "I should probably go..." you start to push the blanket off, "I work early."

"what time? i'll drive you before skate." william says immediately, "i mean, you can stay over. like you said, it's late and maybe you shouldn't drive."

your heart flutters twice against your rib cage. "I work at 7, but it's fine, really, I don't want to intrude."

he shakes his head, "tuck yourself back in and watch the movie."

you snicker and do what he suggest, snuggling back under the fuzzy blanket that you shared with the blonde beside you. "bossy," you remark. willy just laughs into your shoulder.

a few minutes later you jolt, "an alarm." you say, your hands searching frantically under the cover. you finally locate your cell, but then willy hisses gently, jerking his body away from yours in a way that has you panicking.

"that's not your phone." he laughs awkwardly.

your face drops, "oh my god." you had totally just grabbed your friends dick in mistaking it for your phone. then you blush, "i'm so sorry!"

he just laughs at your panick, hand slipping out from under the blanket with your phone, "here's your phone."

you take it from him gingerly, closing your eyes with embarrassment. "willy, I-"

"it's okay," he smiles, "it's not like it was the worse thing in the world." his face falls when he realizes what he says, "no! that came out wrong, I didn't mean to sound so creepy."

his embarrassment is clear and it has you laughing gently, "now we are both embarrassed."

willy just smiles at you in a way that if you two weren't just friends, you would mistaken for lovingly. "yeah," he says gently.

you just look back towards the tv with a gentle smile.

you never did set your alarm.

—

"do you know how to skate?" william teases. he's wearing his practice gear still, just without his gloves. his bare hands placed on his hips as he observes you.

you give him a look, your hands gripping onto the outdoor rinks wall, skate covered feet still flat on the black padding of the makeshift bench area. he laughs at your unbothered expression, skating in a small circle before going still again. "yes, I know how to skate."

you still don't make a move to step out onto the ice, fingers going cold against the ledge.

"alright," william skates to the left slightly, "come on then."

you nod, gulping slightly when john tavares skates past you, his kid tucked between his legs as they zip through. your eyes meet william's again, "alright, I will."

without much more thought, you take a hesitant step onto the sheet of ice, your one foot quickly followed by the other. you still have a hold on the ledge but it doesn't seem that willy minds your pace, still waiting patiently behind you.

your head whips around when snow hits your jeans, zach coming to quick stop and effectively snowing your lower half. "hey!" you screech.

your best friend just laughs, "you're skating?"

you scoff, eyes squinting his direction. "yeah"

"y/n. you can't skate."

your mouth hangs open, another scoff escaping.

"I thought you said you could," william teases.

"I can!" you say in a tone of disbelief, still giving your giggling best friend a look, "just," you trial off, eyes moving around the rink as players and their families skate laps, "not well."

zach just laughs louder at your confession, and then he pats william on his shoulder, "good luck."

all you can do is laugh in pure shock, your best friends words still ringing in your ears. william just laughs along, which was...rude. he skates forward until he's close enough to touch, "c'mon."

his hand is extended towards you, an invitation to grab on. "i can skate just fine, I promise. I just suck with balance."

"I believe you," he smiles, "just grab my hand and i'll drag you along."

you look at his hands again, "okay, just...don't go too fast."

your cold hands grasp onto his, your grip tight on his much larger palms. "I won't."

immediately he takes off backwards, doing what he claimed and pulling you along, starting to take you both around for your first lap. even though he's skating backwards, he's dodging and zipping between the people effortlessly.

"i'm kind of impressed," you laugh, "you're really good at skating."

he gives you a look, "you do know i'm a professional, right?"

you laugh loudly, head falling back briefly. "okay! it's still impressive. don't make fun of me, i'm giving you a compliment."

"wouldn't dream of it," william insists, "thanks for the compliment." the two of you are almost back to where you started the lap. you can tell william is going slower than he could be for your sake, his teammates passing you both without effort. "okay," william starts, slowing down, "now your turn to try."

"what? no," william is already dropping your hands, somehow manoeuvring out of your death grip so that your standing alone. he doesn't leave you, but skates a couple meters back. "willy!" you whisper shout, arms out in front of you like bambi.

"skate towards me," he says.

you shake your head, "no, i'll fall."

"you won't," william assures, "and if you do, i'll catch you."

at the same time william finishes his scentence, rasmus is whirling past, laughing when you screech at the sounds of his skates tearing up the ice beside you.

"you got it," william says, effectively grabbing your attention again, "and then after this you can hold onto me again."

"promise?"

he laughs gently, "I promise."

"okay," you mumble to yourself, you look down at your feet but then remember every time zach had tried to teach you, hammering the rule that you definitely shouldn't look down when you're skating.

you meet williams eyes once again, using your left foot to push off, followed by your right foot. your arms are still trying to keep your balance, stuck out your sides. you're sure you resemble a baby giraffe learning to walk, but you can't find yourself caring, your feet still moving you towards william. "i'm doing it?"

your voice comes out as a question and it has him giggling, "you are. bend your knees a little more."

you smile brightly, almost close enough that you could reach out and grab onto the white jersey covering willy's shoulder pads. you're still feeling wobbly, just barley gliding on the ice, but it's still working - you hadn't fallen over. "there you go!"

"yeah, I think i'm -" your suddenly panicking, the pick of your skate catching a small dip on the ice's surface. then you arms are flailing at your sides, desperately trying to keep your balance so your face doesn't smack into the ice. but, you're already slipping, preparing yourself for the pain of falling.

"woah," william says, hands grabbing around your sides, fingers pressing under your rib cage to pull you up straight, effortlessly stopping your accident before it happens. "you okay?"

his eyes are filled with concern, dancing over your face as if to look for any injuries - even though there was no possible way. after all, he did save you.

you're slightly breathless, hands holding on tightly to william's biceps. "yeah...yeah i'm okay." looking around, you see a couple people's eyes linger, small smirks on their lips.

"want to stop?" william whispers, slightly crouched so he can look into your eyes.

you blush, "no, just keep skating with me before I die of embarrassment."

he laughs gently, breath tickling your frost bitten cheeks. "okay," he nods, immediately fulfilling your wishes. his hands leave your ribs, dragging down the underside of your arms until he's gripping your hands, skating backwards with you once again.

your eyes are still wandering, checking the people around you with your lip between your teeth, brows pulled together.

as if william can sense your worries, he tugs on your hands to grab your attention. "nobody is looking at you."

"what if - "

"- or making fun of you," he interrupts, "I promise."

you nod and willam smiles, changing direction so that you're the one now moving backwards, william skating forward as he pushes you gently along. the change of direction has him holding onto your waist, a better position for the movement. he can feel your grip on his muscles tighten, but you don't say anything, even a small laugh bubbling out as he spins you two quickly.

"oh gosh, willy!" your laughter is like music as you scold him, your words holding no bite with that smile beaming on your face - william effectively taking any lingering embarrassment you had been feeling and throwing it away. "you're going to make me dizzy."

he laughs, "you will be fine - " william starts, but his words are cut short, not watching where the two of we're going until he's backing you into a person, stopping all three of you from skating at the collision.

kappy grunts at the impact, his hands grabbing your shoulder from behind to stop you all from tumbling over. immediately, william lets go of you, and you spin around the best you can with your still shaky balance.

"woah," the finnish native mumbles, his deep tone burning your ears.

the sight of kappy's face as you blinking hard, your brain reminding you of why willy invited you to the family skate in the first place: and here he was in front of you.

"kappy, hey." you're breathing out. "sorry, we didn't mean-"

"my bad," william interrupts, his earlier chipper tone gone.

you nod gently, arms crossing over your chest but immediately dropping back to your sides, the loss of stability causing you to teeter slightly.

"all good," kappy says, "you guys having fun?"

"oh yeah," you smile brightly, blinking up at him slowly, "this is great fun."

"I saw your almost fall earlier," kappy laughs and it has your smile falling, "are you always that clumsy? first the vomit and then the slipping, you're full of surprises huh?"

you laugh awkwardly, "oh, umm-“

william says sharply, "she's not clumsy."

you send the blonde a harsh look, "no it's okay. I am," you turn back towards kappy, "-clumsy. very clumsy."

"no," william laughs in disbelief, "you're not-"

"heads up!" a voice calls out from somewhere on the rink. you look over to try and find the source of the commotion, but just as you do, a puck smacks fast into the boards, hitting a dip in the ice and flinging back through the air, smacking you right in the face.

you scream out, hands immediately flying to your nose. you can feel the hot liquid seep through your fingers, your blood dripping onto your coat.

"oh fuck," kappy gasps.

you can feel a hand press gently against your back, a slight rubbing movement over your white puffer.

"here," william says, "move your hands."

william has taken off his jersey, holding it right under your hands. when you take them away, he's immediately pressing the material to your face, catching the blood before it can hit the ice.

a small crowd has gathered around you, looks of concern and words of worry all flying around that have your head spinning. "fuck," you whine when willy applies some extra pressure.

"I know, sorry," he says quickly.

"i'm sorry!" the words are falling from jake muzzin's mouth, "my kids were fucking around and the puck just, like, flew through the air."

"it's okay," you wince, "i'll be fine."

"the medical staff are still here," aryne tavares says beside you. "you should get that checked out...that's a lot of blood. it might be broken."

her words have you groaning, tears welling up in your eyes.

"let me help you off the ice," william says. he's crouching down again so he can look into your eyes. all you can muster is a gentle nod, which makes william throw his free hand around your waist, helping you skate over to the exit with his jersey still held to your face.

the medical staff take notice of you two immediately, springing into action at the sight of your blood, taking you away from william and beginning their work.

by the time there putting a strip on your nose, the bleeding has mostly stopped. one of the medical personnel has put the cotton plugs up your nostrils, catching any lingering traces of bleeding. thankfully your nose isn't broken, just bruised and the next few days are to be expected with soreness and discolouration.

"how's it feel?" william joins you once again, still only wearing his shoulder and chest pad. you had been separated while the medical staff cleaned you up but now that they were done, he joined you once more.

"it's sore," you mumble. you don't even want to think how stupid you look with a bandaged nose and what you can also assume swollen face. "but i'll survive."

"you're so brave," his tone is teasing, sitting beside you gently. "i'm sorry."

"it's not your fault," you say, "it's nobody's fault."

he nods in agreement, "no but if I saw it coming I would've sacrificed my back to save your nose."

you giggle, which makes him smile. you wince at your face moving, fingers hovering over your nose. you sigh, "I can't believe i've been covered in another bodily fluid infront of the guy I like."

william just sighs gently. "don't worry about him right now."

"I can't help it," you groan. a beat passes, "everybody was definitely looking at me that time, huh."

william laughs in disbelief, "loser."

"yeah but i'm you're favourite loser," you lean in closer, bumping your side against his, "so you can't complain."

"you're right," he nods, "what would I do without you."

you laugh, "who knows."

the sound of zach calling out your name has your and willy's eye contact ending, your gaze now meeting your best friends as he approaches in a hurry. "are you okay, y/n?! I didn't even know you got hurt."

"i'm fine," you sigh, "just a little bloody."

"yeah," zach breathes, eyes darting down to you stained white coat and back, "I can see that."

then kappy comes up behind zach, a raise to his eyebrows as he takes in your face. he whistles lowly, "shit," he says, hands on his hips, "those black eyes are going to be knarly."

you don't take notice to the way williams jaw clenches.

"i'll look badass," you say.

kappy shrugs, "something like that."

zach covers his face in disbelief at your words, sending you a slight smile. "you're insane, y/n."

you just shrug. zach starts to talk with somebody on the medical team, assumingly grilling them with questions about your injury. kappy gets distracted by one of his teammates by the boards, walking off to join a conversation without another word.

you turn to willy, "can you get my boots?"

he just laughs gently, "yeah."

wasting no time in jogging to the bench where you both left your things, returning no less then two minutes later with your winter shoes in his hand. wordlessly, william leans down in front of you, fingers expertly untying your laces until their loose enough for him to slip off your skates.

your foot is tucked between his thighs while he tugs your boot on, patting the sides of your ankle once it was secure.

"thanks," you whisper, dropping your foot back to the ground.

your face starts to hurt a little more as time passes, and you can only dread how much it will ache when you wake up the following morning- already preparing the looks of shock from your co-workers.

william stands up from his crouched position. he's even taller on his skates as he looks down at you, a ghost of a smirk tugging his lips. he opens his mouth as if to say something but then he stops, pulling out his phone.

you fight the urge to scoff, about to tell him not to leave you hanging like that, but then he is pointing the phone at you, the click of the camera button alerting you to a photo being taken. "hey!" you say.

william laughs, observing the photo of you looking all pouty for a few more seconds before pocketing his phone.

"collecting future blackmail?" you ask with a laugh, an unimpressed raise to your brows.

"no." he shakes his head, "you just look cute."

oh.

you gulp.

"want to go home?" he asks you.

you shake your head slightly, clearing your throat. "yes."

william extends a hand to you, which you take immediately, letting him pull you to your feet. for the rest of the day you think about that damn picture and the reason it was taken.

you look cute.

—

a week passes before you see william again. the day after getting smacked in the nose with a hockey puck, zach and alanna kept you company at your apartment. you were jacked up on pain meds, which lead to a few loopy conversations with your two friends, most of them ending with you crying and feeling embarrassed in front of kappy - zach and his wife laughing awkwardly at your high state.

safe to say after your third venting session, you slept the rest of the day away - barley remembering the conversations you had (that is until zach calls you and laughs about it all: you hate him.)

liz visits you 4 days after the incident and you finally get a chance to talk to her about the idea of going out with william. she says maybe, and promises to think about it - which was a win as far as your concerned.

7 days after, william texts you and says he's growing bored without seeing your face, asking you for breakfast to talk about the kappy plans. you were already agreeing at the promise of a grilled cheese form your favourite cafe.

you pull open the heavy car door of williams vehicle, a bright smile on your face, cheeks rosy from the cold late february day. "hey."

"hi," william says, tossing his phone down as you take your seat. "you're healing nicely."

"I thought so" you agree. you are only left with the last stages of your black eyes, no marks or bruises on your nose anymore, barely tender when you touch it.

william puts the car in drive, pulling away from the curb and onto the busy toronto street. you grab the loose aux cord that was lying in the empty cup holder, immediately plugging it into your phone and queuing your favourite songs.

"so," willy starts, eyes darting over to your face quickly before they go back to the road, "there's something I want to talk about."

"you're making me a bit nervous," you admit, a light laugh emerging from your chest.

willy shakes his head, "no, nothing bad. it's just...," he takes a sigh, a beat passing, "I want you to be completely honest with me."

"always," you promise.

he takes another deep sigh, "what do you see in kappy?"

you blink hard at his question but stay silent.

"like I know he's my best friend," continues willy, "and I love him to death but he's not the most...loving person. he doesn't like relationships and he's not driven in that sense, like...at all. and if i'm being completely honest he's kind of a dick around you."

"what?" you whisper.

william looks empathetic, "he doesn't treat you the nicest way he could, don't you see that?"

you blink again because, no, you really haven't noticed anything bad when you're talking to kappy or anything odd when you're hanging around him. but then you think of the way that zach loves you, or the way andreas talks to you and how willy cares for you and kappy really doesn't stand out. you gulp, "I mean...he's maybe not the most affectionate but that doesn't mean he hates me-"

"no," william interrupts, "he doesn't hate you he just...doesn't treat you the way he should. and I don't want to upset you but I don't think you should continue pursuing him. i'm only saying this because you deserve better than my best friends shitty attitude."

you gulp.

"but with that being said - i'll still help you, y/n. if you still want him and you know kappy is what you want - i'll bud out. we will continue doing this," william looks over to you, "just tell me what you want."

you bite your lip, william's blue eye burning into yours before he has to look back to the road. you don't turn away though, eyes still studying his side profile. his sharp jaw and sloped nose, the way his earring shines in the sunlight.

you think about what he said, and all of it was true. you can see it now. you honestly don't know what to say. you would feel guilty if you had to tell william to stop, all of his time he spent helping you would be wasted. you're not sure you want to continue. that crush was much more fun when it was just a crush from afar, without the puke and the blood and the being left on the dance floor.

but it's working, you think. kappy and you feels different than it has in the past. with william around to help, something was changing.

"I want to keep doing this," you decide.

william just nods. "then we will keep doing it."

the tense moment is cut when the song changes, the familiar chords of ABBA flowing through the speakers quietly. william just smirks, bopping his head along to the beat until your smiling gently.

just as the chorus starts, william hits the steering wheel like a drum, turning briefly to you, "look into his angel eyes, one look and you're hypnotized!" he sings loudly.

your mouth hangs open in shock, a few laughs bubbling up your throat at his performance.

"he'll take your heart and you must pay the price - look into his angel eyes - "

you join in, "you'll think you're in paradise !"

you're both laughing for the entire song, belting the lyrics to one another as you cruise through the city. the song finishes and a new one starts, both of you breathless and smiling.

a beat passes, "thank you willy."

his smile flatters slightly and he swallows, "you don't have to thank me."

you just nod.

the gps alerts you both that you're only 3 minutes away from the eatery, directions telling william to get into the left lane as you approach the stop light.

your phone dings in your lap, pulling your gaze away from where you were still staring at william's side profile.

liz

i thought about it and i think i want to do it. i'll go out with william.

your face falls slightly. despite your unknown disappointment, you text back with as much enthusiasm you can rely through your phone.

y/n

oh okay !

y/n

want me to give you his number

y/n

i'm with him rn

liz

actually i was thinking we could maybe do a double date?youve been getting closer to kasperi, right? i dont know willy that well and you guys are friends! so i think it would be better that way

y/n

yeah

y/n

that sounds good

y/n

i'll let willy know

y/n

and he can let kappy know

y/n

okay 🥰

liz

kk let me know.

love u

willy is just parking against the curb in front of the cafe as you send your last text to liz. once the car is off, you turn towards him with a grin.

he laughs, "yes?"

"guess what I just got you."

williams brows furrow, "what?"

"a date with liz!," william tries to keep his smile on his face. "well, a double date. how does that new Teppanyaki place sound? you, liz, kappy and me?"

william blinks and nods, "umm, yeah. sounds good."

"okay," you mutter, "should I text kappy and ask or should you?"

"I can," william says, "it's easier to convince him when i'm able to guilt trip him."

you nod, "alright. it will be fun I think."

your stomach growls and that has the conversation ending, both of you heading in for a meal, setting plans in stone for the upcoming double date.

—

"are you excited?" your tone is hopeful as you look over to your left, hands gripping the steering wheel as you navigated the city.

you can see liz nod once before you have to look back to the street. she rubs her lips together, "i'm sure it will be good."

"you don't sound excited," you laugh awkwardly. out of the corner of your eye you can see her shoulders deflate. "you sound uninterested."

"I promise i'm interested," liz says, "it's just," she stops herself, eyes darting over to you. she watches the way you knaw on your lip, eyebrows pulled together in thought. "it's nothing. first date jitters I suppose."

you're still not to convinced, flicking on your turn signal. "okay."

liz clears her throat, "anything I should know about willy before we get there?"

you hum. "what do you mean?"

"like, I don't know," liz laughs, "what's his favourite food? or favourite movie? what's his favourite colour? something I can causally bring up so he knows i'm paying attention."

you swallow and take a sharp breath. "oh, umm," you laugh, "well his favourite movie is tinkerbell."

"really?"

you laugh again, "well, no. he says he doesn't have a favourite movie. I told him mine was tinkerbell and therefore I was going to tell people it was his too," you take a pause, "his favourite food is steak, but he's also big into any breakfast food. oh and he likes the colour purple."

liz is staring at you with an amused smile.

you continue, "you don't have to feel nervous, liz. willy is....the best."

"y/n.." liz wants to say something, you can tell by the tone of her voice. it has you laughing, pulling the car over as you reach the restaurant.

"looks like we are here!" thankfully, you snag a parking spot right infront of the Teppanyaki style restaurant, switching the car off once you park.

"willy said we can just walk in, there's no reservation or anything."

"alright," liz nods, following suit and unbuckling her seatbelt.

"dude, why do you look so nervous?" kappy's voice has william looking away form the door, the leg that was previously bouncing under the table top coming to a halt.

"i'm not nervous," william argues, "i'm just...aren't you nervous? this is a date."

kappy just shrugs adjacent to him, "it's just y/n...we're friends. why would I be nervous."

william's jaw ticks, "it's not just - "

"hey!" the sound of your bright voice as william stopping, turning around his in chair to see you and liz walking towards them.

william stands, "hey," he swallows as he takes you in, the nerves he was definitely feeling earlier are still there, butterflies fighting in the lining of his stomach. "how are you guys?"

"good," you smile. liz agrees, her smile just as bright and flattering as yours, but william doesn't notice it.

"saved you a spot, y/n/n," the voice of kappy has willy exhaling, blinking hard as your eyes widen at the finnish accent.

you squeeze the blondes shoulder as you sneak past him, taking the empty stool beside kappy. you watch the way william smiles at liz, bringing her into a friendly hug. suddenly your stomach turns and you have to look away as they chat. eventually they sit down, liz on the corner beside you and william next to her.

"you look nice," kappy's words are gentle on your side, two fingers picking a piece of your hair and dropping it over your shoulder. "who's got you all dressed up like this?"

you shrug, "oh I don't know," his smirk has you laughing gently, "why? do you think I should dress like this more often?"

his eyes dart down to your top, that familiar shade of red adorning your chest. "red's my favourite colour." kappy smirks.

"really?" you fane innocence.

william clears his throat loudly and it has your eyes darting over to find his but you're only met with his face in the menu, not even a glance in your direction. you frown gently at that.

liz nudges you, eyes quickly meeting yours. "what are you going to get?"

"I don't know," you admit, picking up the menu infront of you. all of you are silent for a few minutes, reading over the menu trying to ignore the unreadable tension that looms around the four of you.

the flames in front of you ignite, the warmth of the fire has you moving back - snapping you out of your own mind bubble. you wouldn't be surprised if -

"oh my god," liz whispers.

"what?" you ask quickly, dropping your menu.

her eyes are on you, an expression on her face that has your stomach plummeting. "that totally singed your brows."

you eyes widen, "what?"

kappy laughs as you pull out your phone, the cell acting as a mirror as you look over your face. you're met with your brows, very much looking crispy. you whine, brushing away any loose hairs.

"are you hurt?" william asks.

"no," you say. you're thankful you filled your brows in, any areas of natural brow hairs that may be now be splotchy, are coating in a thick pomade. "i'm okay."

"honestly, you can't really tell now that the singed hairs are gone." liz's tone is hopeful and it has you nodding, pocketing your phone.

the cook at your table finally makes his way to your groups corner, platting up the mouth watering range of food.

"are you sure you're okay?" william asks you again and you nod harshly.

"i'm fine." you meet his worried expression and immediately regret your tone of voice. he doesn't look away. "I promise."

then you all start eating, small talk and laughter bounces between all of you. kappy's hand keeps grazing your arm, which in theory means he's flirting with you, which is why you are surprised when your body doesn't react. in fact, you almost feel nothing at the way his fingers tickle your skin.

liz gives you a subtle wink when she notices the way kappy's arm dangles across the back of your chair so you force a smile. but then you meet williams eyes, and your smile falls. he looks away, back towards kappy and their conversation.

a phone buzzes and it has you looking over just as kappy's phone is lit up, an array of notifications flood his lock screen, but the top one catches your attention.

lacy

wanna come over ?

you blink, looking away. kappy grabs it quick, wordlessly typing out his response with a small smirk - but you catch it.

suddenly you feel icky, and once again you feel like you're standing alone out on a dance floor. tears are gathering in your waterline, you can feel them as they brim and it has you clearing your throat softy. you reach out for your cup of water, but you go in too fast and way too quickly, smacking the side of cup so that all its contents spill out, covering your lap.

your sudden stand as william and liz stopping their conversation, worried eyes finding you standing with a soaked pair of pants.

"sorry," you don't even know who are are apologizing to, hurriedly grabbing a napkin and trying to soak up the liquid from your jeans.

a few tears roll down your cheeks and you don't dare look up, still rubbing furiously at your pants. "sorry, i'm just," then as if you can feel them, you look up and meet williams eyes, swimming with what could only be pity for you - being clumsy again and running your chances with kappy. "i'm going to go to the bathroom," you finally mumble, speeding away from the table and through the busy restaurant.

you round the corner of the bathroom hallway, and once you're out of eye sight you break down - not even making it into the actual bathroom before you're crying, covering your face. you feel so embarrassed. why is it, you think, anytime you're progressing with kappy something has to go wrong.

even worse, when he's giving you attention you don't feel anything anymore. what is wrong with you?

quick footsteps have you looking up. william comes to a halt, stopping right in front of you.

you sniff, "sorry, do you need to use the bathroom?" you side step him, moving over so he could push open the door.

but he doesn't move. "no," willy shakes his head, "I came to make sure you were okay."

"oh," you mumble.

"are you? okay?"

you feel a fresh roll of new tears fall down your cheeks and you don't even want to think how much of a mess you look. "no."

"c'mon," william whispers, nodding towards the bathroom door. you follow him wordlessly into the single use bathroom, letting him lock the door behind you both.

the bathroom is rather spacious, but it was a fancy restaurant, so you're not sure what else you would expect. it was painted a warm colour, a long granite counter top with a sink and fancy soaps. a bidet toilet, which if you weren't so miserable would've had you giggling, always finding the idea funny. the bathroom was darker than a normal bathroom, it was actually really relaxing.

"i'll dry your pants." william's words have you snapping out of your thoughts. he's standing by the hand dryer patiently.

you give him a gentle nod. without thinking much of it, you unbutton your jeans, wiggling out of the wet denim until they hit the floor around your ankles. you don't even feel embarrassed as you stand in your zebra print underwear. you had already taken your shoes off before your pants, leaving you to walk bare foot towards willy, your wet jeans in your grip.

he doesn't say anything, eyes burning into yours when he takes the pants.

the hum of hand dryer starts moments after, the quiet ambiance of the bathroom filled with the loud wind. you wipe your face before lifting yourself to sit on the counter top. the cold temperature of the surface has your bare legs shivering, but you don't show it, quietly watching william as he dries your clothes.

5 minutes later the dryer stops. "thankfully they weren't too soaked, would've taken longer to dry." willy says, walking towards you with your very much dry jeans.

"thanks," you say with a sad smile, taking the pants from his hands. "i've ruined your date."

your statement has william frowning, "you did not ruin my date. you could never ruin anything for me."

"but i've embarrassed you - and myself!," you head falls back against the mirror, "my fucking eyebrows are burnt, i spilt water on my crotch so it looked like i pissed myself - and kappy isn't even interested...he was texting lacy," you look down, "and I don't even care about that honestly, i'm just...feeling defeated. I can't believe I was stupid enough to think this would work. I probably look ridiculous."

william's jaw clenched. he steps into your personal space, his jordan's now visible in your sight. it has you looking up gently, meeting his face only mere inches from yours. "you look beautiful."

you gulp. willy's thick thighs bump against your bare knee caps and it has your legs separating more than they had been, welcoming his body between them.

willy's eyes dance over your face before he gently grabs your cheeks, keeping you in place as you tilt up to look at him. "I hate hearing you talk badly about yourself."

all you can muster is a gentle nod, your cheeks rubbing against his palms at the movement. his thumb brushes against your cheek bone and it has you taking a shaky breath, one of your hands reaching up the rest on his chest.

just when you think he may lean in, there's a knock on the door, bursting the two out of your bubble. william jumps back as you slip off the counter, pulling your jeans on.

"you guys okay?" liz's voice is muffled through the door.

you brush past willy, pulling open the door to meet you worried friends expression.

"we are fine. william was just drying my jeans for me. thanks again."

he just nods breathlessly.

"are you sure you're okay?' liz asks you and you push a smile.

"yeah, but I think I want to head home," you clear your throat, running a hand through your hair. "I can give you some money, william, for my portion of the bill."

"no," he says quickly, "don't. it's on kappy and I."

you don't respond. "liz, are you going to come back with me?"

"absolutely," she says. and then you leave the bathroom, bidding goodbye to kappy before you and liz leave, driving silently while you drown in your own head, the events of the night whirling in a pool inside your brain.

20 minutes later you pull up outside liz's apartment.

the blond unbuckled her seatbelt but she doesn't open the door, only turns fully towards you with a sad expression. "i'm sorry about tonight."

you shrug, "nothing to be sorry about."

after a beat of silence, liz sighs, pulling on the handle of the door until it opens. "he's like totally into you, you know that, right?"

"he was literally answering another girl beside me, liz."

she furrows her brows. "what? no, not kappy." liz sighs, "willy."

"what? no. we are just good friends."

she laughs like she doesn't believe you, "seriously? i'm not buying that."

shocked, you huff, "well buy it. if he liked me why on gods green earth would he offer to help me get with his best friend?"

a moment passed, "y/n, he probably just wanted to spend more time with you."

you gulp and don't say anything. you feel like you could cry again.

"it's okay," liz says, "I was never really into him and if i'm being honest, I only agreed to go on this double date so you'd be happy. i'm sorry."

you sniffle, "don't be sorry. it's okay."

she just smiles softly, "okay," a beat passes, "and I think you might like him too."

and then she leaves.

1:58 a.m.

willy 💙

im sorry if i made you uncomfortable. it's the last thing i want to do

y/n

you didn't

y/n

i'm sorry too

willy 💙

what are you sorry for?

y/n

if i made it awkward

y/n

i feel like it got really tense in the bathroom

willy 💙

tense?

y/n

yeah

y/n

i was just really upset and i felt unwanted

y/n

i shouldn't of touched you like that

y/n

and i should've kept my pants on lol

y/n

let's just forget it happened

willy 💙

you want to forget it happened?

y/n

yes

willy 💙

okay.

—

not once had you forgotten about your conversation with liz since the double date. not a minute goes by without being reminded of what happened - or almost happened- in the bathroom with willy.

there was no way william liked you. you had thought over every interaction you two had had, and you can't see a reason why he would think of you of anything more than a friend. and he was a great friend, you loved the swede for it. he cared for you and was patient with you and he was your number one wing man. just like he promised he would that night when he came up with the plan, he has helped you with kapseri kapanen.

kappy had texted you a week and two days after the date, talking about the leafs charity gala and how he wants you to go with him.

you respond enthusiastically, accepting his invitation. even if you weren't ending up with kappy as your date, you're positive you would've been some other leafs date - just like usual. when zach brought it up three days after kappy asked you, you told him about kappy and zach had been happy for you: the plan was working. but you didn't feel happy, you felt sort of empty.

you hadn't texted, spoken to or met with willy since he texted you late after the double date. the conversation ended with a pit laying heavy in your stomach, sleep not coming easy thinking of his response.

you've embarrassed him, you think. you have truly pushed it with all this kappy stuff and you've embarrassed yourself and him. so you don't reach out, and he doesn't either, leaving you feeling nothing short of heartbroken.

the leafs gala raising money for cancer research was only a week away. you panic texted zach and alanna that you had nothing to wear and begged for them to join you and help you pick a dress suitable for the event.

so that next afternoon you and alanna browsed through the colourful racks of some expensive dress shop, the blond pulling out options she deemed suitable and passing them to the sales clerk, who adds them to your growing dressing room.

zach isn't close, currently scrolling his phone as he lounges on one of those boyfriend designated couches. you make sure he isn't in earshot and then you turn towards alanna, "remember last week when liz and I went on a double date with kappy and willy?"

she laughs lightly, "yes i remember."

"well, something happened."

alanna gives you an suspicious glance, passing a ruffled red dress to the clerk, "what?"

you clear your throat, "after i spilt my water on myself, and willy helped me dry them, we umm, I think we almost kissed."

her eyes goes wide, "you and willy?"

you sigh, fingers playing with the silky material of a lilac dress, "yeah and i'm pretty sure i freaked him out and put him in an awkward situation and...i feel like i fucked it all up."

"i'm sorry," she pulls you into her side, "have you talked to him?"

"not since we texted that night. I said we can forget about the whole situation and he just said okay. it just felt tense and i kind of miss him."

"I think maybe you should reach out," alanna says gently, "tell him how you feel." her eyes dart behind you, and her smile flatters. "or you could tell him now." her words are whispered out the side of her mouth.

"what?" you whisper, spinning around. you see william walking into the dress shop, a gentle smile on his face as zach greets him. "how is he here?"

"hey guys!" zach calls out, "I invited willy to help."

"great!" alanna calls back. you and william send each other a tight lipped smile, the two boys making their way over to you and alanna. zach seems to be oblivious to the tension, smiling as they approach.

"need any more help picking out options? willy and I are the best dressers I know."

you grab the purple dress you had been previously fiddling with, "no, actually, i've just chosen my last one."

the sales clerk rushes over and takes it from you.

"okay," zach smiles, "well let's start this fashion show!" he claps his hands.

"zach, maybe - " alanna starts but zach is already walking away, willy following in his steps, hands shoved awkwardly into his puffer coat.

you don't look at willy before entering the dressing room, pulling the curtain closed so even if he wanted to say anything, he wouldn't have the chance. not that you wanted to shun him, you just didn't want to face the embarrassment.

you slip on a green dress, you don't love it but alanna does, vocalizing her feelings as soon as you draw back the curtain. "i do love it but i think courtney is wearing that colour."

you just nod, stepping back into the room to try something different. your next option is the red one, with a big skirt that is way to prom-like for the gala, but you pull back to curtain anyways.

"it's cute!" alanna exclaims, but her face is hesitant.

zach must agree because he winces, "it's a bit...out there."

you spin in the mirror, observing the back.

"I like the colour," she continues, "what do you think?"

you hum, "I feel like i'm going to prom."

zach laughs, throwing his head back. "I wasn't going to say it."

"red isn't your colour," william interrupted.

oh.

all you can muster is quick nod, walking back into your changing room. changing out of the puffy dress quickly before slipping into the silk material of a different one.

when you head back into the main area, you're only met with the bright eyes of william, zach and alanna nowhere in sight.

"where'd they go?" you ask, eyes looking down at your feet as you make your way infront of the mirrors.

william shakes his head slightly, "they went off back into the retail section."

you just hum, observing yourself and the dress. it was absolutely stunning. for only grabbing it as a distraction, it was the most perfect dress you'd ever worn. the light purple shade complemented you skin wonderfully. the silk wrapped up around one shoulder, giving a unique shape - but the dress was still appropriate enough for the event. you knew it was the one.

"you look amazing," williams words are pretty much a whisper. you met his eyes through the mirror and he's looking at you so gently it has your stomach flipping.

"thank you," you say just as gently. you spin around to face him. in a moment of boldness you step of the slightly raised pedestal, walking until you are standing right in front of him. "why did you come?"

"zach asked me to."

you huff, "yeah but why did you agree?"

his brows pull together, "why are you annoyed?"

"i'm just asking, willy. why are you here?"

he stands, "that's a great question, actually. why am i here?" you swallow but don't speak, willy continues, "I don't really know what I did for you to brush me off this past week but you could of at least talked to me about it."

you scoff, "i'm sorry but i'm not the only one to blame for our lack of communication, william. i'm just trying to make you comfortable! i told you we can forget about it and move on but clearly that's not enough. you're also stopping communication from me."

"you're not even making sense," willy huffs. "I backed off for you!"

"backed off? why on earth would you even need to back off?"

his adam apple bobs in his throat, eyes reaching yours frantically as if to try and analyze what you were feeling. "the reason why we're even in this situation is because of kappy," willy breathes, "that's what this is. an exchange of a stupid promise to help you get kappy."

"a stupid promise? are you seriously saying this to me. it's not just about - "

willy interrupts with a sarcastic chuckle, "and look at you right now. trying on fucking dresses for a gala that he invited you to. so it worked, you got kappy. we can stop this now."

you fight the urge to cry, anger and disappointment bubbling deep in your chest. "I don't want - "

he stops you, "to answer your question, I don't know why i'm here so i'll just leave. i'll see you at the gala."

willy turns on his heels, grabbing his discarded coat from the couch. just before he leaves the area he looks at you again, his tone bitter "you should get the red...it is his favourite colour after all."

and then he leaves you by yourself.

you frown, wiping at your eyes before any tears have a chance to fall.

—

you decide to meet kappy at the scotiabank arena. it gives you time to collect your thoughts before seeing willy again, which you very much needed.

you get ready in silence, emotionless as you curl your hair and apply your makeup. slipping into the silk purple dress and nude heels.

the mid march air is still chilly, prompting you to grab your nicest jacket before leaving your place and making the familiar drive to the leafs arena.

kappy meets you in the sporting garage, complementing you nicely and guiding you with a hand on your lower back as you both made your way into the event. you smiled brightly for photos, laughing with zach and posing with kappy.

the gala is so beautiful. the usual hockey ice covered with a beautiful flooring, the arena decorated appropriately with tables and chairs all around, sponsors, coaches, staff and players all in attendance. for what it was worth, you were having a good time.

"alright," you huff, placing down your vodka cranberry and pushing up off the table, "it's time to dance."

kappy groans, laughing when he throws his head back.

"I wouldn't argue," zach laughs but there's a heavy underlay to his words. it works though, kappy joining you to stand and guiding you into the dance floor around his teammates and coaching staff alike.

a slow taylor swift song was dripping through the speakers, her gentle voice soothing you as kappy grabs your waist, your arms filling suit as the move up towards his shoulders, loosely resting around his neck.

the two of you move slowly, swaying to the music. "i'm surprised that you didn't come with willy."

you try not to scoff. "well, you are the one who asked me."

kappy's eyebrows draw together, "only because he told me that he wasn't going to ask you."

you mimick his confused expression.

kappy continues, "he was the one who told me to reach out and ask you. I like you, y/n and you're a great friend and i mean no offence when I say i probably wouldn't have asked you if he didn't mention anything."

"oh," you hum. his words don't bother you as much as they once would have, "no offence taken. you're a great friend, kappy. i'm sorry anytime we hang out something embarrassing happens."

he laughs at that, "I don't mind. after all willy was always there to save the day - nothing embarrassing about that."

all you can do is nod. in that moment you think of what kappy just said, and you realize even if you and willy hadn't fought and the kappy plan was still in motion - it wouldn't go anywhere. kappy saw you as a friend, and for the first time in awhile that didn't stab a dagger through your heart. if anything, you felt relived. you think kappy and you are better off as friends and that has you laughing.

"what's so funny?" the finnish native inquires.

"nothing really," you mumble, "just - "

you stop yourself, stomach falling to the floor. you watch as willy dances with a girl, both laughing and swaying to the music only mere feet from you.

"ah shit," kappy mumbles.

you won't let yourself get upset, you think. so you look away harshly, back into kappy's eyes. he can tell your smile is forced, but he doesn't mention anything - your eyes say enough. "i'm fine."

it's not long after you initially spot him, you find william again. your eyes meet across the dance floor and almost simultaneously both of your smiles drop. but before he can blink, you're looking away. willy is only left watching your purple dress move aorund your ankles.

a few hours later you exit the bathroom, eyes downcast as you fiddle with your bengals covering your wrist. you come to a stop as you brush somebodies chest, dragging your eyes up until you're looking into a familiar shade of blue.

"sorry," you mumble, side stepping his path.

william grabs your arm, stopping you from walking away. "you're wearing purple."

you don't let your emotions come through, only shrugging. "it was the best dress." you look at him harshly, "you asked kappy to take me tonight?"

william just sighs at your question, shoulders deflating.

"not only that, but you had to lie in order for him to ask me. why didn't you say anything?"

"I didn't want to upset you."

"out of everything you've said to me in the past two weeks, that would've been the nicest possible thing."

he sighs sadly again. "I didn't want it to hurt you," willy's voice is strained, hands held out in your direction like he was approaching a scared kitten.

"then maybe you should've asked me instead."

he looks taken back but you can't even find it in yourself to be embarrassed at your confession. you were done hiding these emotions and feeling embarrassed for being yourself.

"y/n...I need to - "

"william?" a feminine voice calls down the hallway, heels clicking as the same woman he was dancing with approaches you both, a sweet smile on her face. "sorry to interrupt." she says.

you laugh, "no it's okay, he's all yours."

you push past, shoulder bumping into his as you leave, walking away from william with your heart breaking along the way.

—

march 17th 10:43 a.m.

willy 💙

i'm sorry. i fucked up

and i hate fighting with you

willy 💙

you don't have to respond

but i needed to apologize

—

april 17th

you meet up with zach and tell him about you're feelings for william. you start with the family skate and vent about the bathroom, the fight at the dress store and the conversation at the gala. zach holds you while you cry.

playoffs are cut short once again for the leafs and it puts an ever bigger damper on willy's mood. everyday he wakes up and see if you've responded to his texts, only to be met with read.

—

may 17th

you go out with the team for drinks. now that the seasons over, they can let loose a bit more than they typically would. you dance with steph all night, avoiding willy at all costs.

you get so drunk that zach has to take you home early.

willy can't keep his eyes off you, even when he's pulled into a conversation, he always ends up watching you. he regrets not going up to you.

willy goes home alone.

—

june 17th

you still haven't responded to williams messages and you haven't seen him in person for longer than a fleeting second. you think about him every day.

willy thinks about reaching out again, but he doesn't want to push. he also thinks about watching tinkerbell, but he decides against it. he thinks about you every day.

—

july 17th

you go on a date with a new guy from work. the whole time you think of blonde hair and blue eyes. you don't see him again.

kappy tries to set willy up with one of his friends, but he declines.

—

august 17th

you almost reach out to willy - you are tired of pretending you're over him.

willy visits the cafe where the two of you first discussed your plans, ordering the same cheesy croissant sandwich. he almost sends you a picture of the food. he misses you.

kapseri kapanen gets traded to the pittsburg penguins.

—

august 20th

3:13a.m.

y/n

in swijdiu

y/n

sorreyu

y/n

sorry

y/n

i'm a litytle drunbk

y/n

i miass youu do musch willy

y/n

si shouydve repsonde when u txted me in apriul

y/n

i wabnt u

y/n

my swo sorry

the next morning you wake up with a pounding head, vision blurry when you try and look around. miracles must exist, you think, because even in your drunk state you had taken off your makeup and changed out of your bar clothes.

you groan, pulling back your covers so you can stumble to the bathroom. you pop some ibuprofen and turn on the shower, the steam warming the room and soothing your aches and pains.

you don't remember a thing from the night before, your drunk escapades with steph and sydney falling short, your memories blurry. all you can be happy about is that you actually made it home in one piece.

the shower has made you feel 100 times better, enabling you to successfully dress yourself and make something to eat without wanting to crawl back into bed and just rot away.

mid way through dishes a knock sounds at your door. you hadn't even checked your phone all morning, expecting it to be one of the girls to be stopping by. you stop cleaning, pulling open your front door.

willy stands there, eyes wide as he takes you in. "I texted you."

you gasp slightly, eyes blown wide as you take him in. your face falls, thinking about his texts back from april that you left on read. "i know."

he sighs gently, running a hand through his messy hair. "you never answered." he looks at you sadly.

"i know..." you sigh. you think about the last time you and him talked, the way you walked away from him and that girl at the gala. "who was that girl at the gala." you're knawing at your lip as you await his answer.

"some random girl auston knows...I haven't even talked to her since then." you don't say anything so he speaks again, "I messaged you this morning."

you frown at his confession, "why?"

"you texted me first." he says quickly.

flashes of your night pass by then. you vaguely remember crying about the swede to your two friends, crying even harder as you texted on your phone.

your face pales. "I was really drunk. I don't know what I said but i'm sorry - "

he takes a step forward, entering your apartment and shutting the door behind him. you let him in your space wordlessly, neck tilted back so you can look up at him.

willy takes a deep breath, "I fucked up, y/n. I shouldn't have been so mean to you and there's no excuse for the way I acted. I regret the conversation we had at the dress shop and the one at the gala - i haven't stopped thinking about them in months."

"no, willy, I shouldn't of been so cold towards you. I should've talked to you -"

"don't even apologize. it was my fault, I..," he pauses, taking a deep breath, "I was angry because I didn't want to forget about what happened in the bathroom. I wasn't even angry you - i was angry with myself for not telling you how I was feeling."

"what are you saying?" your whisper holds a little hope, arms dropping limp at your sides as you take in the man before you.

"i love you," william breaths a laugh, "i love that you never text in paragraphs and separate sentences that dont need to be. i love that you're scared of vomit, and i love it when you get hangry and i love it even more when you take enormous bites and get food all over yourself.

I love how beautiful you are, how smart you are, how brave you are and how confident you are. I love how much you care about me and even when it was about kappy you were always thinking of me, finding comfort in me, listening to me."

"willy..." you words hold disbelief.

"i'm not done," he says gently, "nothing about you ever needed to change - especially for some guy who honestly, didn't give you the time of day you deserve. I love you for you! you're clingy and like the tinkerbell movie and wear animal print underwear. I love everything that makes you you, and anytime you would change yourself for kappy I wanted to tell you all this - but I didn't because I wanted to make you happy. and he made you happy...so i budded out."

your eyes fill with tears. mouth opening and closing like a fish while you take in his confession.

"i've been in love with you this whole time, y/n, I would do anything for you. so that's why I helped you with kappy, not because I wanted you to be with him but because I wanted to see you happy."

his final confession as you melting because the guy you fell in love with - the guy you pushed yourself away from in fear of not being loved back - has been in love with you since before you even knew it.

"do you mean it?"

he laughs awkwardly, moving towards you until he can touch you. william holds your face, looking down at you the way he always does. "I do."

"promise me."

he shakes his head in amused disbelief, "I promise." his thumbs wipe away at your tears, gently stroking your skin.

you push up on your toes, hands sliding up williams chest until they reach his neck, interlocking fingers behind his head for leverage as you bring your lips to his.

kissing william was nothing short of perfect. his lips were gentle with you, slotting between yours like a perfect puzzle. you two mold together like you've done it before: the kiss came easy. you moan into his mouth when he sucks on your bottom lip.

you drop back to the heels of your feet, willy's lips chasing yours as you move.

you're smiling when you pull away, both of you breathing deeply as you regain composure. william laughs gently, his breath tickling your nose and it has you smiling wider.

"I love you so much," you finally say. although willy wasn't expecting a confession back, he was relived to hear one from you, shoulders deflating with a happy sigh. "willy, I stopped liking kappy after the bar. I just didn't realize it until it was too late. I'm sorry for not talking to you about how I was feeling.

i'm even more sorry for putting you through plans that involved me trying to get with your best friend. i'm also sorry for not kissing you in the bathroom because...I really wanted to."

he just laughs, shaking his forehead against yours, "it's okay - you're kissing me now."

you smirk, "yeah," you push back up and nudge your nose against his perfectly sloped one, "and i'm going to do it again."

—

February 2021

william chuckles awkwardly, a blush creeping up his muscled chest. "well, actually...we're sort of dating."

willy expects kappy to be shocked, maybe react loudly and laugh in disbelief but he doesn't. his friend just smirks at him across the table, brows raised as if urging willy to continue.

"no. not sort of, actually. i'm in love with her and she's in love with me and we've been dating since august."

"so you finally grew a pair and asked her out?" kappy teases.

william just laughs, "well, she kind of asked me. I just word vomited a love confession at her and she took control and...well, now we are here."

"I knew you liked her." kappy says after a moment of silence, the same teasing smirk still on his face.

"how?"

"that picture of her with the busted up nose has been your home screen since you took it."

damn, willy thinks, kappy has him there.

the conversation continues between them, sharing laughs and catching up over their dinner until they need to part ways. they would see each other tomorrow when the penguins hit the ice to play the leafs, so their goodbye isn't all too bad.

willy arrives home just after 9, stomach full with a smile on his face. his two dogs rush to his aid, jumping up against his legs in search of affection and kisses from their dad.

"hey," the sound of your voice as willy looking up just as your round the corner, clad in sweats and your glasses. "how was dinner?"

he pulls you into his side, "was good," his words are mumbled against your lips, willy bringing you into a toe - curling kiss that had your stomach doing flips.

"i missed you when you were gone," you giggle.

he raises a brow at you, dogs now sitting peacefully at both your feet. "you promise?"

you throw you head back with a laugh at his question, the position giving willy free access to attack your neck in kisses. "I promise."

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