Chapter 79

Karen soon went upstairs as they both got ready. Sidney was done first and headed downstairs as she finished up. When Karen was done, she went down and met Sidney in the living room. He got up and kissed her before heading out. When Karen was leaving, she noticed a few more presents under the tree and smiled as she turned to get her coat on so they could leave.

"So where did the other presents come from?" Karen asked as they started the drive to his parent's house.

"What other presents?"

"Just stop right there. I saw a stack of boxes ranging in sizes by your big box. Did Santa come early?"

"He must have while we were getting ready" Sidney said with a smile.

"Fine, play your game Crosby. But on a more serious note, is it going to matter that I have nothing for your family?"

"No, don't worry about it. For one, before last night they thought we weren't together and two, you decided just a day ago to come up here with me. It'll be fine but if you're going to feel bad about not having anything at least for Tay, we can stop at her favorite store and you can get her a gift card."

"Aren't most places closed by now?"

Sidney looked at his watch "I think we'll make it."

They headed to the store and they were about to close but when they saw it was Sidney, they let them in. Karen got the gift card and Sidney bought a couple of things too. They thanked the saleswoman and left.

A few minuted later, Sidney pulled into his parent's driveway and they headed inside. Since they would be back the next day, Karen left the gift card in the car to give to Taylor then. When they walked in, Karen felt the nerves arrive and Sidney noticed, giving her a kiss on her cheek to calm her down. It wasn't 'meeting the parents the first time nerves, it was they don't like me why am I torturing myself' nerves. Trina appeared from the kitchen and smiled as she hugged her son.

"I am so glad you made it home for Christmas Sid."

"Well if I didn't come home, you know you guys would have came down to Pittsburgh to see me."

"Of course we would have" Trina looked behind Sidney and saw Karen standing there "It's nice to see you again Karen."

"You too Trina. Thank you for letting me join you guys for Christmas."

"Your welcome although I didn't realize you were coming with Sidney."

"Yeah it was a last minute decision. I was able to get today as well as tomorrow off."

"Hi Karen" Taylor says excitedly as she came bouncing into the hallway.

"Hi Taylor. How are you?"

"I'm good. Does this mean you and Sidney are back together if you came here with him?" she asked getting a hug from Sidney.

"Yes it does Tay" Sidney said putting his arm around Karen.

"Well dinner is ready so if everyone wants to go sit down, I will get the rest of the food."

"Is this anything I can help you with?" Karen asked politely.

"That would be nice Karen, thank you."

As she started to walk into the kitchen, Sidney brought her back to him and kissed her, smiling before he let her go. Karen walked into the kitchen and Trina was standing there looking at her.

"Either by that look I am intruding on your family's Christmas or you just hate that I'm here and with Sidney."

Trina's face softened "it's neither Karen. They way we all left it after Sidney's birthday I couldn't help but realize that you did love him and when Troy came home last night and said you came with Sidney, I told him that we needed to let this be and it's Sidney's decision to be with whoever he wants."

"I appreciate that Trina, thank you. After Sidney came back in September I could tell something was going to happen. When he just basically repeated what you and Troy had said to me I knew it was more what you guys wanted for him. If it's the fact that you don't want him with any girl right now, I can understand that. He's worked to hard to get where he is now to have someone mess that up. But if it was against me personally when you just met me to judge me on that alone and not willing to get to know me, I had to take offense when he broke up with me."

"We just want him to focus on hockey right now. He's young and still has a lot to learn about juggling his career and personal life."

"He may be young in age, but he's more mature than probably any of us were when we were 21. He's got a good head on his shoulders and I think he needed someone to balance all that. It just happens to be me."

"Troy may take some time accepting it, but I see how you two are and I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions just because my husband didn't approve. I should have gone on my own first and for that I do apologize."

"Thank you."

Karen was surprised when Trina hugged her "we better get this food out to the table."

"Ok." Karen wiped under her eyes before picking up a couple bowls and walking behind Trina into the dining room. She sat the bowls down and sat beside Sidney. He looked over to her and Karen just smiled and shook her head telling him they'd talk later.

They ate dinner with Sidney and his dad taking up most of the conversation. When it was over an hour later, they got things cleaned up and headed to church. Sidney drove himself, Taylor and Karen and his parent's went together.

"Troy I think you need to step back and look at what's really going on with your son. He's in love and we told him to break up with her, but they found their way back to each other. If we push him to get away from her again, we may never have the relationship we have now with Sidney."

"She's taken his focus away from his game."

"Not necessarily Troy. The team had it's ups and downs when they weren't together. There were games they won and you said he still didn't play his best. Why don't you just step back and let him decide what he wants right now."

"I'll try ok, but I can't promise anything" Troy said with his usual stubbornness.

"Well I am going to leave it with one last remark...after everything we put her through in August, did she really do anything that bad to deserve that?"

Troy just looked at Trina before turning into the church parking lot and finding a spot. They got out and met up wth Sidney, Taylor and Karen and went inside. Sidney pulled Karen aside and told everyone they'd meet up with them in a minute.

"So what happened before dinner?"

"Your mom apologized for her behavior from August. She said that she should have judged for herself about me and not went along with your dad."

"I didn't expect that."

"Me either, though I feel bad now not having anything for them for Christmas."

"I'm sure they'll understand baby. Besides, they may head down for New Years and maybe you could find a late present for them."

"Yeah ok."

Sidney kissed her and they went to join his family. Karen felt a little more at ease since her talk with Trina and focused on what was going on. At one point, she felt a chill and smiled realizing her parents were with her. She zoned out from the sermon and held a silent conversation with her mom and dad. Sidney looked over at her and saw she was looking to the floor and not really paying attention but had an idea what was going on when a tear escaped down her cheek. He reached over to wipe away the wet trail it left and Karen looked up at him. She whispered 'sorry' and he just smiled at her. When everything was over, the Crosby's left and greeted the minister before heading out the door. Sidney held Karen back after telling his mom they'd see them tomorrow and waited to be the last ones out.

Sidney stepped up to the minister and shook his hand "Sidney, well it's a pleasure to see you this year."

"Thank you. Reverend Marks, I would like for you to meet my girlfriend Karen."

"Well its a pleasure to finally meet the woman who captured this young man's heart."

"It's nice to meet you too."

"Where are you visiting us from?"

"Pittsburgh."

"Ah, so more than just the city has your interest Sidney."

"You can say that" he said looking at Karen. "I don't want to keep you, I just wanted you to meet Karen."

"Well I am glad you joined us tonight Karen and anytime you come back up this way, be sure to stop in again. Sidney, it's always great to see you and good luck the rest of the season."

"Thank you" they both said in unison and walked out to the car. Sidney opened the car door for Karen but stopped her with a long passionate kiss before letting her go "I couldn't do that in there."

Karen laughed at him "yeah because kissing in church is so much more of a sin when we are obviously angels in every other aspect of this relationship."

"Well we are about to get very sinful as soon as we go home."

"Have I told you lately that I love how your mind works?"

"No, but I'm sure you''ll tell me over and over again tonight." Sidney kissed her again and closed the door after she was in. He went to the driver's side and started the car, heading home.

Chapter 78

After meeting up with the others, the girls went in and got something to drink before sitting down. The game was another disaster as the Pens lost 2-0 against Tampa, a game they should have won. They had been having trouble with only winning one game out of their back-to-back games this year. Their losing was becoming apparent to everyone and no one knew what could happen next with the team if all the losing continued.

Karen and Natalie said goodbye to Sheril and Diane and headed down to the locker room. Natalie found Max and told him that she had her bag in Karen's car and just needed to stop and get it before they left. Karen waited for Sidney to be done with the media before going to see him. After 20 minutes, Sidney emerged from the locker room and saw Karen sitting on the couch. He leaned over the couch and kissed her cheek.

"Ew, you're still all sweaty."

"You've never complained about me being sweaty before."

"That's a different kind of sweat stud. You ok?"

"Yeah, I just need to grab a shower and then I need to head out."

"Ok, I'll just wait for you here."

"I won't be long" he said kissing her again and then headed to get his shower.

About 15 minutes later, Sidney came out fully dressed and Karen stood up to meet him. They walked out to his car and was saying goodbye for a couple days.

"I'm going to miss you" Sidney said as his forehead was propped against hers.

"Why are you going to miss me, I'm going with you."

Sidney's head popped up "what?"

"Before I left today, my manager called us all in and told us that we could work Saturday to have Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off if we wanted to."

"So you told her you'd work Saturday?"

"Well she said we could work Saturday to make up the hours if we wanted, but we didn't have to. I still have to work Friday though."

"We'll be back Thursday night early enough, I promise."

"I know. I just need you to let go of me so I can get my bag out of my car."

"Well go get it so we can go."

"Why don't you just drive me down there to make it easier?"

Sidney smiled and kissed her, getting in the car driving to Karen's car and letting her get out to get her bag. She put it in the SUV and they were on their way to the airport. After they got to the airport, they got their bags and headed in. Sidney got Karen's ticket and they told him they could probably sit together since the flight wasn't full. As they got to the gate, they boarded a few minutes later and settled in for their flight.

"So, why didn't you tell me when you got home at 1:30p?"

"It wouldn't have cheered you up then. I had to pick my moment."

"Yeah, after losing was a good choice. I'm glad you decided to come with me."

"Me too." Sidney leaned over and kissed her before she put her head on his shoulder and enjoyed the flight.

A few hours later, the plane landed and Sidney and Karen got off the plane and went inside to get their bags. Karen told Sidney she was going to run to the bathroom and would be back in a minute. While she was gone, Troy came up to Sidney and they hugged then waited for the bags.

"Have a good flight?"

"Yeah, it was ok. Listen dad, there's something you need to know. I brought someone home with me for Christmas."

"Who? One of the guys?"

"More like a girl. Karen and I got back together and she came with me."

"I see" Troy said not sounding to thrilled.

"Dad, I love her and we're meant to be together. All I ask is that you give her the benefit of the doubt and be nice to her. We're only here for two days."

"Alright, I will be nice."

Just then Karen came from the bathroom and saw Troy standing with Sidney. She took a deep breath and continued over there.

"It's nice to see you again Troy" Karen said as sincere as she could.

"You too Karen."

They soon got their bags and they headed out with Troy walking in front of them. "I told him that we are back together" Sidney said in a whisper.

"So that's what that look was."

"It'll be ok baby."

"You seriously need to quit telling me that."

Sidney kissed her head before they got to the car "I'll try to remember that." They got in and Troy drove them to Sidney's house telling them he'd see them tomorrow. Sidney grabbed both bags and led Karen inside. She looked around and Sidney caught her smile as she was remembering their time there during the summer. Since it was late, they just went to bed and let whatever happens tomorrow, happen then.

The next morning, Karen woke up beside a still sleeping Sidney. She smiled to herself and crawled on top of him, straddling his hips and leaning down to place a soft kiss on his lips.

"Now see, this was worth the whole trip just to wake up like this" Sidney said opening his eyes and seeing Karen on top of him.

"I guess I can go home now" she said as she started to get off him.

Sidney stopped her from getting off him "I don't think so."

Karen began to grind her hips on him "then what do you think we should do about it?"

Sidney rolled them back over onto her back "you know exactly what I want to do." He pulled up on her shirt and over her head, throwing it to the floor. His mouth crashed down over her breast, sucking on her nipple to make it hard, making sure to play with the other one. When he was done with his assault, Sidney kissed his way down to her stomach. Approaching the band of her shorts, Sidney took both hands and pulled her shorts and underwear down her legs, tossing them aside. Before crawling back up her body, Sidney dscarded his own shorts and threw them to the floor. Karen spread her legs to allow Sidney full access to her. He laid on top of her and kissed her as their hands felt every inch of skin visible. Karen felt Sidney grow against her thigh and couldn't wait to feel him inside her. "Now Sid, I need you now." Sidney obliged and found her opening, sliding inside with ease. "Baby, you're always so tight for me." He began pumping in and out of her like this was their last time together. Sidney would pick up speed, but then slow down. He kept this pace going until Karen couldn't take it anymore. "Harder baby, oh god Sid." Sidney's thrusts got harder and felt Karen began to tighten around him "come for me baby." After a few more pounding thrusts, she screamed out for him as her orgasm ripped through her body. Sidney gave her another hard shot before he came, letting out his own loud moan for her. When he was done filling her, Sidney pulled his head back and looked into her eyes before leaning in for a passion-filled kiss.

"Morning stud."

"Morning baby." They both laid there smiling and just held onto each other for a little while before getting up and facing the day....and his parents.

"So what's the plan for today?" Karen asked him after they got dressed and went downstairs for breakfast.

"Well the only obligation we have with my parents is going to church tonight with them, Taylor and my grandparents. Other than that, we have the day together."

"Ok."

"You sure that's alright with you?"

"What going to church? I used to go all the time with my parents but after I started working in retail, I usually worked on Sundays and couldn't do both."

"I just wasn't sure baby, we never really talked about it."

"Religion is finicky for some and what I believe in may not be what someone else does, so why start a holy war when really no one is right or wrong."

"Like what?"

"Why do you want to get into this Sid?"

"Because I'm curious. What do you believe in?"

"I will only tell you as long as you promise me that whatever I say stays between us and if you disagree its just we have different opinions about it."

"I promise" Sidney said handing her a cup of coffee "I just want to know."

"Well like the most controversy, abortion. I believe that every woman has a right to choose what's to be done to her body. Now there are exceptions like if a woman who sleeps around uses it as a form of birth control, then its wrong. But if a woman gets pregnant and can't support a baby financially, then she should have the right to have one if she chooses."

"Would you have one?"

"Depends on the circumstances I was in. If I was in a relationship, I would see what the guy feels about having a baby but if I was alone and the guy wanted nothing to do with me then I at least want it as an option. But for me personally, I don't think I could go through with it. I just want to know that I have the right to choose for myself."

"That's seems reasonable enough. Do you sometimes wish you could have kids?"

"Every now and then" she saw the look on Sidney's face "I guess I have wondered what it would be like if we had a baby, but it's never going to happen so its back to wishful thinking on my part."

"I'm sorry baby."

"Its ok, I've gotten used to the idea of it. What else do you want to know?"

"Do you believe in God?"

"Yes and no. I believe that things happen for a reason not because it's God's plan. If a guy steps off the curb and gets hit by a car it's because he wasn't looking not because God called him home. There are miracles that I believe God has a hand in but not everything has to do with him."

"I don't buy that. There seems to be more to it."

Karen put down her cup and looked down to the floor "because God didn't help save my baby 12 years ago."

"Karen..." Sidney started to walk over to her but she put her hand up to stop him.

"From the time I felt the cramping up until I lost it, I prayed every second to God to save my baby. When he didn't help, I felt like he turned his back on me. That was when I stopped going to church and decided to believe in whatever made sense not because it was written in the Bible."

"Wow."

"Do you still want me to stay or should I go back home now?"

"Baby, I want you to stay and I don't care if we have different beliefs. We may not want to ever say anything about this to my mom, but I don't care. I love you for so many different reasons this just adds to the puzzle."

"Well stud there are a lot more pieces missing. You just scratched the surface."

"I'm sure those topics will come up sooner or later but at least we have the whole church/God thing covered. If you don't want to go tonight, I can make something up to my family and you can stay here."

"No, that's ok. I think it will be nice to go with you and your family. Besides, if I was home I would have gone to silently talk to mom and dad. I'll just do it here."

"Good" he said kissing her. "Now, we need to go find a tree."

"Sid, we're only here for two days. What's the purpose of that?"

"Well we need to have our Christmas before we go to my parent's house, so we need a tree. Which reminds me....where's my present?"

"Tell me we are not starting this again" she said laughing. "It is being sent and it should arrive today. I had it sent here because I figured you were coming home even if I didn't come with you."

"See, we need a tree then. Let's go get one and then we can decorate it. After dinner and church, we can spend some time enjoying it until we go to bed."

"Ok. Are we getting a real one?"

"Do you want a real one?"

"If you can find me one."

"I can and you shall have one." They finished their breakfast and headed out to find a tree. After an hour, they got back with the tree and there was a giant box on the porch. Karen smiled knowing it was her presents for Sidney. He just looked at her when he saw the Wheeling post mark and she just shrugged her shoulders. They got the tree inside and then Sidney went to bring the box in.

"What is all in here?"

"No idea. You're just going to have to wait until tomorrow to find out."

"Fine, make me wait." Karen started laughing at the way he was acting like a 5 year old.

"I will. What kind of decorations do you have?"

"Not much but I have lights and a few ornaments to hang up that we used to put on the family tree when I was little. Mom gave me a lot after I bought the house."

Sidney told her where the boxes were and she went to get them. When she came back, Sidney was trying to get into his box and she smacked his hand away. He pouted and she kissed him to get his mind off the box. They got the lights and decorations on the tree and Sidney plugged it in. Karen stood back and smiled at how beautiful it looked. Sidney scooted his box underneath the tree and Karen gave him a look.

"Um, not to be nosy or anything, but is that the only present that is going under the tree?"

"No, when Santa comes tonight there should be a couple more" he said as he kissed her cheek and walked out of the room. "We need to get ready to go over to my parents' house ok?"

"Ok" Karen yelled back wondering what he was up to.

Chapter 77

When Karen went to work on Monday she got a few things worked out before leaving. That night, Sheril had the girls over to watch the game against Buffalo.

"I hope they win tonight" Sheril said.

"I think we all want that, even the guys" Karen added.

The game started and went on, ending in overtime. The girls were all secretly praying that it turned out how they wanted it and it did. Sidney scored 43 seconds into overtime, but they were reviewing it to see if he hit it in with a high stick. They ruled it a goal and the girls all screamed in excitement. Everyone left Sheril's after that because they all had to get up for work the next day. Natalie drove Karen to Maggie's.

"Are you going with Sidney home for Christmas?"

"I unfortunately have to work on the 24th, so no."

"Sorry about that. Max invited me to go with him and I am."

Karen smiled at her friend "wow, that's a big step meeting all his family on a rather special holiday. What did your mom say when you told her?"

"Her and dad are already gone. They headed to Indiana Sunday to visit family. They figured I would want to stay home and be with you since you're alone."

"But now you're going to Montreal, so it wouldn't have mattered."

"Sorry Kiki. I could always tell Max I can't and stay home with you."

"No, out of the question. Nat this is good for you, I've been alone for Christmas for 6 years, the 7th one won't be any different."

Natalie pulled up to Maggie's house "why don't you stay around with Mags?"

"She's going to be with her family and I really don't want to intrude. I'll be fine. I'll go home Wednesday after work and make dinner on Thursday and get up early the next day for work like it was a normal day. I just want all the details of a French Canadian Christmas when you get back."

"You got it. I get done at 1p tomorrow as well, so maybe I can hitch a ride with you after work. I'll be leaving with Max right after the game and was hoping you could pick me up at the airport Thursday night."

"I think we can arrange that. Thanks for the ride, I'll see you tomorrow at work." Karen got out of the car and headed inside. She got ready for bed and just laid down when her cell phone rang.

"Congrats baby" she said knowing it was Sidney.

"Thanks. I didn't wake you did I?"

"No, I just laid down so I wasn't asleep yet."

"Good. We're going to be heading back soon and I wanted to get you before you went to bed."

"Well you got me, so whatcha want?"

"Just to say that I love you and I can't wait to see you tomorrow afternoon."

"I love you too Sid. I should be home regular time."

"Just in time for my pre-game nap."

"Don't you know by now that I plan it that way?"

"I'm glad you do baby. I need to finish getting ready so we can leave."

"Ok. I'll see you tomorrow stud."

"bye baby, I love you."

"You said that already."

"And I will forever keep saying it. I love you, I love you, I love you."

"Oh my god, put us out of our misery please" a voice from a distance yelled.

"Do I need to know who that was?"

"It was Jordan" Sidney said laughing "night baby."

"Night stud." She hung up from him and put her phone back on the nightstand so she could got to sleep.

On Tuesday, Karen was at work and before she left her manager called a meeting. At one, she met Natalie by the time clock and they headed to Pittsburgh. When they got to the house, Sidney was watching tv and when he saw Karen walk through the door, he got up and practically ran to her, pulling her into a hug.

"My god you two, can't you save it for later" Natalie said before heading to the kitchen.

"I'll remember that when you see Max before the game tonight and you get like this" Karen said yelling back to her.

"I am so glad you're home baby" Sidney said before capturing her lips in a kiss.

"Me too."

"Yeah but I missed you the most since I hadn't seen you after Sunday morning."

"Um, I hadn't seen you in the same amount of time what makes you so special?"

"I just am and I am ready to hold on to you for the next hour and a half."

"Let me go get something to drink and I'll be right up, ok?"

"Ok, just don't take to long."

"I won't."

Sidney kissed her before he went upstairs. Karen went into the kitchen to get her drink and then went upstairs to join Sidney. When she walked into the bedroom, Sidney was already laying down and waiting for her. She took off her shoes and then crawled into bed beside him, curling up to his chest.

"You know I'm going to be leaving after the game tonight."

"I know. Nat is going with Max to Montreal so she'll be leaving with him afterwards too."

"I wish you we're leaving with me."

"I know. Close your eyes and take your nap." Sidney kissed her head and did just that. Karen laid there and smiled before closing her eyes too.

When the alarm rang, Sidney got up and got ready. Karen sat up and got ready herself. She headed downstairs to make Sidney something to eat and when he came down, the food was ready. Natalie joined them and they all ate. Since Sidney was leaving after the game, Karen was going to have to drive her and Natalie to the game. He told her to park in the player's lot and come in when they got there. He kissed her and left for the arena. Natalie went to go get ready and Karen did some things before they left.

After they got to the arena, Karen and Natalie were heading to the locker room when a familiar voice called out to her.

"Karen?"

Karen turned around and saw Rick standing behind her "hey Rick" she said hugging him "how are you?"

"Good. Are you down here to see me? Why are you by the locker rooms?"

"Um, actually I'm dating Sidney Crosby."

"Really? When did this happen?"

"Since last April, we kind of were broken up when we talked during the preseason but we're back together now."

"You never could resist a hockey player huh?"

"At least the ones that were assholes" Natalie said.

"Rick, you remember my friend Natalie."

"Yeah, it's nice to see you again."

"You too" she said with a fake smile "I'm going to go find Max, excuse me."

"Sorry about that" Karen apologized as Nat walked into the locker room "Apparently I'm the only one to forgive you for all that happened."

"That's ok, yours is the only one that counts. I won't keep you so if I don't see you after the game, Merry Christmas" Rick said giving her a hug.

"Merry Christmas to you too Rick" she said then walked into the locker room to find Sidney. She found him on the couch with Nat and Max waiting for her to join them.

"What kept you baby?"

"The dreaded ex" Natalie said rolling her eyes.

"Who?"

"I ran into Rick outside and thank you Nat for being so nice to him."

"The guy's a jerk Karen."

"Well I've forgiven him and either you need to too or keep all opinions to yourself regarding him."

"Alright, no need to get all testy."

"Nat I need to get my sticks taped up, come with me?" Max said breaking the tension that just filled the room.

"Sure" she said letting Max help her up and out of the room.

"What's going on Karen?"

"Nothing, it's just been long enough and they need to give it a rest when it comes to him."

"Ok."

"He asked me why I was down around the locker rooms. I guess he thought I was looking for him."

"What did you tell him?"

"That I was dating you and coming to spend time with you before you needed to get ready."

Sidney smiled that she told him instead of making something up "hope he took it well."

"It doesn't matter how he takes it, I'm with you not him" she said kissing him.

"First I have to hear it and now I have to see it, give me a break guys" Jordan said walking into the room and sitting down near them.

"What's the matter Jordan? Not getting any as regular as the captain is?" Karen said causing Sidney to look at her.

"Unless you're offering Karen, I don't think you need to pull at that thread."

"She better not be offering" Sidney said looking at her seriously.

"I'm not offering stud, eventhough it could be fun."

"Now that's what I'm talking about" Jordan said.

"Down Staalsy, she's mine and I will never let that happen."

"Got to love the overprotective boyfriend" Karen said kissing him.

"Well all I can say is, thank god it's time to go get ready to play hockey." Jordan flashed them a smile and left to get dressed.

"I better go too" Sidney kissed her again.

"Will I get to see you before you leave tonight?" Karen asked with hopeful eyes.

"I wouldn't want it any other way baby."

They got up and Karen walked him to the entrance of the locker room "good luck tonight stud."

"Thanks baby. I love you."

"I love you too." They kissed once more and Karen left to meet Natalie in the hallway. They headed outside to meet Sheril and Diane and waited to go inside.

Chapter 76

Sidney and Karen got changed and came downstairs. When Sidney got to the bottom of the steps he stopped making Karen walk right into him.

"Ow, so that's what a brick wall feels like" she said rubbing her head.

"Sorry baby" he said turning around to kiss her.

"Why did you stop anyway?"

"I don't see Max or Natalie and I guess I stopped to wonder where they are."

"Maybe they're in the kitchen or they went for a walk."

"Yeah, I don't think that's where they went."

"Where do you think...." Karen stopped talking when she heard what appeared to be moans coming from the guest bedroom "....no, they aren't?" she said smiling.

"I think they are" Sidney said grabbing Karen's hand and heading towards the sounds.

"What are you going to do, go watch?" Karen whispered.

Sidney stopped them by the doorway of the kitchen "We're not going to watch, I just want to make sure what we're hearing is what we're hearing."

"Yeah because those sounds would just be so new to us" she said sarcastically.

"Just stop" he said kissing her. Sidney broke the kiss when the voices got louder.

"God Max, don't stop. Right there."

"Nat, you feel so good baby."

Karen buried her head in Sidney's shoulder to stifle her laugh "I seriously didn't think they would do this, this quickly."

"Well Max can be very persuasive when he wants to."

"Well Nat can go after what she wants just as much."

"I guess they are like us. Of course, our vocals could use some work."

"Excuse me, I believe I have been vocal before. I just don't remember hearing you that often."

"Maybe we should give them a run for their money."

Karen smiled at Sidney before walking into the living room "we really need to get you out of this off ice competition thing."

Sidney followed her and grabbed her before she sat down. He kissed her then sat down and brought her down on his lap "damn, they're even loud out here."

"Well, now you can have something to get back at him in the locker room."

"I just might use it to" Sidney started moving his hand up Karen's shirt but she caught his hand "why did you stop me?"

"Haven't you had enough from earlier?"

"I can never have enough of you. You know, if you didn't work we could do this everyday."

"Now there's a goal I didn't think to work towards" she said moving his hand out of her shirt.

"Come on, all I wanted to do was go exploring."

"And where did you want to explore?"

Sidney put his hand under her shirt again and this time he made her shiver "well up north here, it's cold and I like the cold" he said as his thumb rubbed over her erect nipple. "But down south, it's always warm and inviting" he said as he moved his hand into her shorts stopping an inch before her mound. "Of course down south, if you get too hot..." Sidney slipped his finger inside her "you can get all wet to cool off."

"I don't think...this wet....will cool you off" she said as she began panting at the sensations Sidney was bringing out in her.

"Well I'm not the one getting all hot, you are" he said continuing his finger movements. Sidney started kissing her neck as he let his fingers move faster inside her. Karen brought her hand up and grabbed his bicep, squeezing it as her whimpers got louder. Before long, Karen let out her moan as Sidney brought her over the edge. "I thought you would be vocal baby" he whispered in her ear.

"What can I say stud, you render me speechless."

"Maybe we should move this upstairs and see if I can get a different response."

"Sid, it's after midnight and you have practice in the morning for your game tomorrow night."

"I think I'll be ok." Sidney kissed her and let her get up. He got up and walked her to the steps "you go up and I will be up in a minute. I need to get something."

"Ok" she said kissing him then went upstairs.

Sidney walked into the kitchen to grabbed something and had to laugh when he heard Max and Natalie still going at it. He turned off the lights, locked the front door and headed upstairs. Karen was coming out of the bathroom when Sidney walked into the bedroom. He closed the door behind him and just gave her a look.

"What?"

"I think they're on round two down there."

"Jealous are we? You went three rounds this afternoon so you're still on top."

"Care to go round four?" he said holding up a can of whipped Cream.

"Mm, a new adventure that we haven't tried yet" she said smiling at the can then Sidney. Karen took the can from him and grabbed his shirt pulling him closer to her "I want to play first."

"Be my guest baby" he said dipping his head down and kissing her.

Karen broke the kiss and threw the can on the bed. She took off Sidney's shirt and told him to lay down. He just gave her a smirk and did what she asked. After he got comfortable, Karen took the can and shook it. She got on the bed and straddled his hips, taking the cap off the can. Karen put some whipped cream on his chest and bent down to lick it off.

"Before you get to into this adventure, can I have some?" Sidney asked.

"Sure, open up?" Karen squirted some on his tongue that he stuck out for her.

Sidney closed his mouth and swallowed "mmm, that was good. Can I have some more?" Karen smiled and squirted some into her mouth, leaning down and kissing him. "I think that tasted better than the first squirt."

"Well good, now you can savior it while I play."

Karen would put more dots of whipped cream all over his chest and either lick or suck it off. She put a line of it from his belly button to the top of his shorts and when she went to lick it off, Sidney took a deep breath as he enjoyed what she was doing to him. He felt Karen take off his shorts and smiled when she threw them to the floor. She sat up and had a look on her face.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing, just wondering where to put some next."

Oh, I think you know where you're going to put that."

"Really? What if I've decided I had enough and want to stop."

Sidney sat up to meet her and wrapped his arms around her body "I don't want you to stop baby."

"Is this you being more vocal?"

"Keep going and find out" he said as he laid back down.

Karen smiled and decided to tease him for a little bit before going where he wanted her to go. She put some on his thigh going from the top to the inside and slowly licked it off. She let her tongue linger when she got to the inside of his thigh and loved making Sidney squirm at what she was doing. Karen did the same to the other leg when she was done playing with the other. When she had enough, Karen squirted a big amount of whipped cream on the tip of his penis. She dipped her head and lightly licked it off, making sure she made full contact with him. After she got it all off, Karen made a line from the tip to the base. She took all of him in her mouth, sucking as she came back up. Karen put the can beside her realizing she didn't need anymore and continued her assault on him. Sidney grabbed the pillows behind him tightly letting his body succumb to the feelings she was stirring inside of him. Karen would change up her actions and heard the moans begin to pour out of his mouth. When Sidney began to move his hips in an upward motion, Karen knew he was getting ready to explode. She continued on sucking harder and before long Sidney came hard as a loud moan filled the room. Karen moved off of him and laid down beside him.

"I must say Crosby, you can get vocal when you need to" she said giggling.

"Well, most times its concentrating on making you scream so when it gets turned around, there's no reason for me to keep it in."

Karen pulled the covers over them and curled into him "good, now get some sleep."

Sidney turned on his side and brought her face up to kiss her lips "night baby."

"Night stud" she said as they closed their eyes and went to sleep.

The next morning, Sidney got up with his alarm and kissed Karen before getting up and heading to the bathroom for a shower. Karen got up and went downstairs. She went into the kitchen and made some coffee. She heard the door open to the guest room as Max and Natalie emerged.

"Karen, good morning" he said smiling as Natalie blushed behind him.

"Morning Max, Nat. Do you want some coffee before you leave?" Karen said smiling at both of them.

"No thanks. I need to get home before I head to the arena."

"Alright. See you later Max."

Natalie and Max walk out of the kitchen and she heard Max say something to Sidney who appeared a minute later in the kitchen.

"Morning baby" Sidney said putting his arms around her waist and kissing her.

"Morning yourself stud. Want some coffee?"

"Sure. Saw Max and Nat as I came downstairs. They look quite happy this morning."

"And why shouldn't they be, they're together" she said handing him a cup.

"They look cute together too" Sidney leaned in closer to her "but not as cute as us" he whispered kissing her.

"Isn't it a bit early for all this affection?" Natalie said as she walked into the kitchen and poured herself a cup of coffee.

"Not like you didn't just send Max off the same way" Karen said smiling at her friend.

"I didn't....we just...oh shut up" she said as she sat down at the table.

"Alright, I've got to go. You two play nice and I will see you in a couple hours baby" Sidney said giving Karen a kiss before leaving.

Karen watched him walk out of the kitchen before turning her attention to Natalie. She stared at her friend smiling until she finally looked at her.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"Yes, ok. We slept together."

"You guys finally went to sleep?"

Natalie's head shot up "oh god, you guys heard us?"

"I think all the neighbors heard you two."

"Oh well, they'll just think it was you and Sid."

"Damn, you finally get laid after how long and you can still crack a joke. So, tell me....how was he?" Karen asked sitting down acrossed from her.

Natalie got a huge smile on her face "better than the first time. Of course the first time we were both drunk but this time we took our time. It was incredible what that man can do."

"I can imagine from what Sid and I heard last night."

"What did you do eavesdrop?"

"No, you were just that loud." Karen saw her friend blush again "don't worry about it, you wouldn't be loud if you didn't enjoy it. I'm going to go grab a shower." She got up and gave her friend a hug before heading upstairs.

After a couple hours, Sidney came back and relaxed with Karen and Natalie for a bit before his pre-game ritual kicked in. When it was time for his pre-game nap, Sidney grabbed Karen and took her upstairs with him. Natalie just looked at them and Karen yelled back that it was just that...a nap.

"So, what did Nat tell you about last night?" Sidney asked as they crawled into bed and he set the alarm.

"Just that it was better than the first time and I do believe the girl is in love" she said as she snuggled into him. "What did Max say about it?"

"I don't know, didn't ask him."

"Fine, I'll just ask him myself. Take your nap."

"Yes dear."

Later, the alarm rang and Sidney rolled over and turned it off. He looked down and saw Karen lying there looking at him.

"Hey there stud."

"Didn't you sleep?"

"Nope. I wasn't tired so I just laid here with you."

"Well thank you. Max wanted Natalie to come to the arena with us so she could hang out in the lounge with him before we get ready."

"Ok. I will tell her to get ready."

"What about Sheril and Diane?"

"They were going to meet us at the arena anyway." Karen kissed him and got up to go tell Natalie to get ready as Sidney got up himself.

After the three of them got ready, they ate and then headed to the arena. When they got inside and went to the lounge, both Natalie and Max saw each other and got huge smiles on their faces.

"You may want to control yourself" Karen told her friend before she walked over to him.

"I have more control than you anyday" she smiled as she walked away. Karen just laughed at her friend and went to sit down, waiting for Sidney to join them. A few minutes later, Sidney came and sat with them until they needed to get ready. The girls left to meet the others outside and waited to go in.

The game against Toronto was uneventful as the Pens lost 7-3. Everytime that the Leafs scored, Karen knew what it was doing to Sidney. When the game was finally over, the girls were leaving when Karen's phone rang. She stepped away from the crowd to answer it.

"Hello."

"Hey baby" Sidney said obviously dejected "could you have Sheril drive you and Nat home? We're going to be here for awhile."

"Yeah, that's not a problem."

"Ok. I'll see you at home later, bye."

"Hey...I love you."

"I love you too baby." They hung up and Karen felt bad for him as the team continued their downward slide.

After Karen and Natalie got back to her house, they stayed up and talked until they decided it was getting late and went to bed. They weren't sure when the guys would be done or if Max was coming over. Karen climbed into bed and wondered what was going on in the locker room until she fell alseep.

A little while later, Karen woke up when she heard the door open and then shut. She was glad that Sidney was finally home and waited for him to come upstairs. A half hour later, Sidney hadn't come up and Karen got out of bed, putting on one of Sidney's sweatshirts and headed downstairs. She didn't see Sidney in the living room so she headed to the kitchen. He wasn't in there either, but then she saw the back door opened a bit and walked outside. The cold air hit her and she wrapped her arms around her as she walked over to Sidney who was sitting on the steps.

"Hey" she said softly as she sat down on the steps behind him, straddling his body.

"Hey."

Karen saw him take a drink from a glass and smelled the stench of whiskey "You ok?"

"Yeah. Coach made all of us stay and face the media after the game. He wouldn't let any of us leave until they were done."

"That couldn't have been easy."

"It wasn't. How can I sit there and answer questions about why we aren't winning when I don't even know."

"Sid, you have to know that something will give and you guys will start winning again."

"I know but when is it going to happen" he said taking another drink and filling his glass again.

"Only you and the team can answer that. I mean me, the fans, or the media can all give opinions about what needs to happen but that doesn't mean its going to."

"Yeah it's easy to make assumptions about what needs to happen from the stands" Sidney said as he stood up.

"Maybe when you guys have the two day break for Christmas, it'll clear everyone's minds and you guys can come together and start winning again."

"Yeah maybe. It'll be nice for us to go to Nova Scotia for Christmas."

"Us? Sid you never said anything before about me going with you."

"I figured it was understood that I wanted you to come home with me so we could spend Christmas together. You are coming with me aren't you?"

"Sid I can't, I have to work Christmas eve. I only get Christmas Day off."

"Why don't you just admit that you don't want to go home with me because you don't want to be around my parents?" Sidney said getting angry.

"That's not it and you know it Sid."

"Fine" he said grabbing the bottle of Jack Daniels and walking up the steps "do whatever you want. I'm going to bed."

Karen sat there for a minute before going inside herself. She was going to head upstairs, but went in the living room and sat down on the couch, covering herself with a blanket. A few tears fell and Karen wiped her eyes as she decided to stay there for the rest of the night.

Sunday morning, Sidney woke up and saw that Karen wasn't beside her. He cursed himself for the way he left it with Karen last night but he had hoped she would had come to bed to with him. He got up, showered and got dressed. The team was taking a bus to Buffalo because they were calling for a snow storm to hit the city. When he got his bags ready and headed downstairs, he found Karen in the kitchen putting the dishes away from the dishwasher. She heard Sidney come downstairs and saw him stand by the doorway to the kitchen but never looked up.

"Hey, I need to head out. We're going to be leaving earlier since we're taking the bus to Buffalo."

"Good luck tomorrow night" she said not looking at him.

"Karen, look at me. Please?"

She looked up at him "what?"

"I'm sorry for what I said last night. I know you just got back to work and I know you've taken more than enough time to be with me, but I was hoping you'd come home with me for Christmas."

"You know I would want more than anything to be with you on Christmas but what pisses me off the most is that you think I don't want to be with you because I don't want to be around your parents."

"I'm sorry ok" he said walking over to her and pulled her to him "the only reason I wanted you there was because I wanted to wake up with you Christmas morning. I wanted to spend my two days away from the game with you at home."

"As much I want that too, I can't take off from work."

"I know. Forgive me?"

"There's nothing to forgive stud."

"I better get going. I love you" he said giving her a smile.

"I love you too."

Sidney leaned down and kissed her "I'll see you Monday night when I get home?"

"Actually, I was going to just stay at Maggie's and then come back back home Tuesday after work since you'll play that night. You ok with that?"

"Yeah, I am. By the time I get home, you'll be getting up to leave anyway. I can wait until Tuesday afternoon to see you eventhough I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too. You better go."

"Ok" he kissed her again "bye baby."

"Bye stud." Sidney let go of her and went to get his bags and left. Karen stood there leaning up against the sink and thought about a few things before finishing what she was doing and getting everything ready to head to Wheeling later that day.

Chapter 75

Over the next couple weeks, the team wasn't winning. In fact they won only two games out of 7. Karen knew not to talk about the game with Sidney unless he wanted to talk about it. She saw his frustration not only on the ice but at the house too. She thought about staying at Maggie's when there was home games, but she didn't want to aggravate the situation. She knew what he was going through but still couldn't really help him.

They decided for Friday the 19th that all four of them would go out for dinner. Both Natalie and Karen had the weekend off and the guys only played Wednesday on the road and then at home on Saturday night.

During the week, Karen kept reassuring Natalie that the date would go fine and couldn't help but laugh at how nervous she was. She had talked to Sidney and he said Max was acting the same way when he talked to him after practice.

Finally Friday came and the guys were happy to head out with the girls for an evening and not deal with what was going on with the team. They had won in Atlanta but Karen saw the frustration building with Sidney with the fight he was in. It was their third win in 8 games and she was glad to give him a night away and hopefully he wouldn't think about it during dinner. Natalie had driven up with Karen Friday after work and would just go back down with her on Monday morning. When they got up to the house, Sidney was sitting on the couch watching tv. Karen went to join him as Natalie said she was going to take a short nap before tonight.

"Is she still nervous about tonight?" Sidney asked as he put his arm around her.

"Yeah. It's funny though, they flirt like they've known each other for years yet every time I saw her today she kept mumbling 'what did I get myself into'."

"Well the guys and I had fun with Max today at practice. We would just say her name and he would miss shots or trip over his own skates."

"Tonight should be really fun."

Sidney turned off the tv "I could think of another fun thing to do before dinner."

"And that would be?" Karen said smiling at him.

"Well we both need a shower before we go."

"Um, didn't you shower after pracitce today?"

"Yeah, but I missed a few spots."

"Ok, so if we get our shower now that still leaves a couple of hours before Max gets here."

"Well after our shower, we'll just get dressed really, really slow."

"I'm not going to win this am I?"

"If you come upstairs with me, you will definitely win" Sidney said standing up and offering his hand to her.

Karen stood up and grabbed his hand "exactly how many times will I get to win?"

"As many times that you can handle" he said before leaning in and capturing her lips for a heated kiss. He didn't let her answer him, instead Sidney led her out of the living room and up the steps to the bedroom.

Karen was happy that he was in the mood to have some fun. The past couple of weeks, she tried to get his mind off of the team and losing but he didn't seem to be in the mood. She couldn't blame him but she didn't want to lose what they had together and she felt like it was slowly slipping away. Karen was brought out of her thoughts when Sidney's hands grabbed her hips and tightly pressed her body against his. She could feel his growing erection and couldn't wait to get into the shower with him.

Karen started to get undressed and when Sidney would help her, she would slap his hand away and tell him he had his own clothes to take off. She kept teasing him as she peeled off her clothes slowly and as soon as Sidney started to undress his cell phone rang. Karen smiled and blew him a kiss as she walked into the bathroom. Every couple of minutes, she would throw out an article of clothing towards him. When she threw him her bra and panties, she heard him tell who he was talking to that he had to go and she slipped under the running water. Soon enough, Sidney had taken off his clothes and joined Karen under the water.

"What kept you studly?" she said as she felt Sidney's hands roam over her body.

"Something that will never keep me from you again" he said kissing her neck from behind.

"Can I get that in writing?" she said leaning into his kiss.

Sidney moved Karen and had her face the wall. She put her hands up against it and felt the sensations of his mouth all over her neck, shoulders and back. His hands moved to the front of her body and lightly touched from her breasts down to her mound. He cupped her, rubbing feverishly over her until he inserted a couple fingers inside of her. Karen put her forehead against the wall letting her body loose control to the feelings Sidney was stirring inside her. Before she knew it, her orgasm came screaming out of her. Sidney removed his fingers and entered inside her in one swft motion. Karen's fingers tried to claw into the tile wall as Sidney pounded into her from behind. They way he kept hitting her spot over and over, Karen knew she wouldn't be able to hold on much longer and after a few more hard thrusts, another orgasm rocked through her body. When Sidney felt the tightness around him, he couldn't hold back his own orgasm and came deep inside her. He leaned up against her back and stood there holding on to her until both of them settled their breathing down.

"I hope that's what you had in mind."

"Definitely."

Sidney pulled out of her and turned her around to kiss her. Karen grabbed the soap and began to lather it washing both herself and Sidney. While she was doing that, Sidney grabbed the shampoo and washed her hair then his own. When Karen got rinsed off, Sidney playfully pushed her out of the way and got under to rinse off himself. She laughed and lightly pushed him back only to have him come back to her and push her back against the wall. He looked into her eyes and smiled at her before diving in for another kiss. Sidney lifted her leg and held it on his hip as he stepped closer into her body. Karen moved her hand from his chest to his cock and roughly rubbed over it. He didn't take long to become hard again and Karen gasped when she felt him inside her. She loved when he pounded hard into her and let all his inhibitions run loose, especially on her. Soon enough, their orgasms returned and Karen laid her head back on the wall and closed her eyes as she felt the hot liquid inside her. Sidney put her leg down and wrapped his arms around her, kissing her.

"Baby, not to interrupt this moment but could you turn the water off, it's turning cold" Karen asked with a shiver to her voice. Sidney kissed her and then let her go to turn off the water. When he came back over to her, she was grabbing for a towel but Sidney got to it first. He brought her out of the shower and had her stand on the rug. He dried her off and then wrapped the towel around her. She leaned up and kissed him as she took the towel out of his hands and tightly tucked in the ends before walking out of the bathroom. Sidney got a towel and dried himself off. When he was finished, he wrapped the towel around his waist and joined her in the bedroom. He stood in the doorway and just watched Karen look through her closet for what she was going to wear tonight. He watched the way she moved, how she stood back and looked at everything. Sidney couldn't help but smile at her. Karen found the outfit to wear and as she turned around she saw Sidney staring at her. She smiled back to him and went to put her clothes on the chair.

Sidney walked over to her and put his hand on her waist "do you know how beautiful you are to me?"

"I have an idea, but why don't you tell me."

"You don't try to be, it's like it comes natural to you. The clothes you wear, they way you wear your hair, your make up is flawless and it just brings out your natural beauty. You present yourself with confidence. I have never seen that with any woman until now."

"Ok, is one of us going somewhere or are you planning to never see me again? Why are you talking like this?" Karen asked in a quiet voice.

"Neither of us is going anywhere and I plan to see you for the rest of my life. I just wanted you to know what I see in you when I look at you" he said as his hand caressed her cheek. His hand went to the back of her head and brought her closer to him as their lips met in a soft yet passionate kiss. He walked her over to the bed and Karen took off his towel. Sidney undid her towel and let it fall to the floor. She got on the bed and laid down, waiting for Sidney to join her. He crawled on top of her and Karen spread her legs to let him fit closer to her. After three weeks of therapy on her knee, it was back to wear she could move it comfortably. They laid there making each kiss last longer than the one before. Sidney didn't feel the need to rush this round as he took it as slow as he wanted to. Karen lifted her hips and slowly grinded up into him. Sidney took the hint and grinded himself back into her, making himself become hard. Karen couldn't stand waiting any longer and reached down between them, putting him at her opening. Sidney obliged and entered her until her couldn't go any deeper. She put her hands on his hips and moved with him as he pumped in and out of her slick opening. Karen began to whimper her feelings the more Sidney moved inside of her. It was like he couldn't get enough of her the way he would milk every last thrust into her. Karen felt her body start to tense up and knew her third orgasm was building deep within her. Sidney sensed she was close and began to pump faster to draw it out of her. Karen squeezed his hips and her fingernails dug deep into his skin as her body shook hard underneath him. Sidney rocketed a couple more hard, deep thrusts until he came shooting into her for the last time. He collapsed on top of her and Karen wrapped her arms around him.

Sidney lifted his head and looked deep into her eyes "I love you baby."

"I love you too" she said as her fingers traced his jawline.

"As much as I hate to move off of you, I guess we need to get ready."

Karen looked at the clock and saw it was 5p "yeah considering Max will be here in an hour."

"Trust me, he'll understand why we're late."

"I'm sure he will stud."

Sidney kissed her as he rolled off her and sat up. Karen got up and grabbed her bra and panties going into the bathroom. She came out 10 minutes later with her hair pulled back with a clip and her make up done. Walking over to her clothes, Sidney stopped her and kissed her cheek before heading into the bathroom himself. When he emerged a few minutes later, Karen was dressed and putting on her jewerly.

"I am going downstairs and see how Nat is doing."

"Ok, I'll be down in a few minutes."

Karen kissed him quickly and walked out of the room. Sidney got dressed and fixed his hair, joining her a few minutes later. As he got downstairs, he went to the kitchen to get a drink of water and heard the girls talking in the guest room.

"I can't do this."

"What do you mean you can't do this? Nat...Sid and I will be there with you. Why are you so nervous about this? It's just a leisure dinner with friends, just look at it that way."

"I don't know why I am so nervous alright." Natalie looked over at Karen who happened to be laughing at her best friend "I don't find any of this funny."

"Nat, you like him and it's scaring you that you might have finally found someone to make you happy. Let your guard down just for tonight and see what happens."

Just then, there was a knock at the door and Karen looked at Natalie "I need 10 more minutes then I will be ready to go."

"Ok. If you need anything, just yell" Karen said before walking out of the room and into the living room. She saw Max standing, talking to Sidney and she smiled when he turned around "beautiful flowers Max."

"When I saw them I instantly thought of Natalie. Is she ready?" he asked with hopeful eyes.

"Yeah, she'll be just a few more minutes. You need to relax Max, you look just as nervous as she does."

"I am. I want to make a good impression."

"Well the flowers are a good start" Natalie said coming into the room. Max smiled and handed them to her as Karen walked over by Sidney "how did you know that Tulips were my favorite?"

"I didn't. I was looking over all the flowers and the Tulips just stood out to me. They're beautiful yet simple."

"I'm simple?" Natalie questioned.

"Simple as in natural. They have a natural beauty to them yet they always get passed over. You don't try to be something you're not. You stand out because you're naturally beautiful too."

"Did you guys rehearse this at practice today?" Karen whispered to Sidney.

"I swear we didn't baby. You said they acted like us but this is just scary" he whispered back.

"They start to go at it and I am calling an exorcist."

"I think they're going to be fine" Sidney said giving Karen's waist a squeeze.

"Nat, why don't we go put those in water so we can go?"

"Ok." They head into the kitchen to find a vase and came back out a minute later ready to go. They headed out and got into Sidney's SUV. Max had talked Sidney into taking them to Red Lobster because it's usually dimly lit and has a date atmosphere for dinner. He had called ahead so they could get a booth in a corner and not get hassled. On the drive over, Sidney held Karen's hand and smiled to her nodding his head to the backseat. Karen glanced back and smiled when she saw Max and Natalie locked together in a sweet kiss. She turned around and felt Sidney squeeze her hand as they continued to the restaurant.

When they reached Red Lobster, they got out and headed inside. Not waiting long, the hostess showed them to the booth and the guys let the girls in first and then sat in beside them. Soon the manager came over to greet them and told them if they needed anything during their dinner to call upon him. Sidney and Max was gracious and humored him. After ordering their drinks and dinners, they all settled in for their evening.

Sidney and Max started to talk about practice and Karen put a stop to it. He kissed her cheek and they changed the subject.

"How's your knee Karen?" Max asked.

"Its gotten better. The swelling has gone down tremendously with this new medication but I think there's still some fluid around the joint."

"You still think there's the possibility of surgery?" Natalie asked her friend.

"Yeah, I can't keep walking around on it with all that in there. But I'll see what the doctor says in a couple weeks at my next appointment."

"We'll deal with it when we need to baby."

"I know."

"It'll be ok Kiki, we'll all be here to help you afterwards."

"Ok, I need to ask....how did you get the nickname Kiki?" Max wondered.

"Yeah, I kind of wondered that too" Sidney added.

"Well one night at the house when all of us girls were together and drinking rather heavily..."

"Why doesn't that surprise me" Sidney said which got a look from Karen.

"...anyway, Liz started playing this name game where you say a word and the next person rhymes another word with it. Well she started with the word beak and we were making up words when we ran out and Sheril said keek. Being her drunk self, she kept saying the word over and over again until I told her to stop and she looked at me and pointed and laughed saying it until she came out with Kiki. It just stuck from there."

"I may need to find another nickname for you baby."

"The way you talk about her in the locker room Sid, the whole team could find a few nicknames for her."

"Like what Max?" Karen asked somewhat stunned.

Max saw the look Sid was giving him and decided to play it off "nothing bad Karen, anyways, what is said in the locker room stays there."

"Nice try Max" she said turning to Sidney "as for you, I thought you didn't talk about your personal life?"

"I didn't talk about our personal life, just the highlights."

Karen looked at Sidney then turned to Max "has he described in detail about certain nights we've had?"

"Only one."

"Oh god, please tell me it wasn't..." Karen said shaking her head before looking at Sidney.

"Which one?" Natalie was just as curious to find out.

"Alright, so I told them about the night after the game when we went into the showers at the arena. That night we played the drinking game at your house and Max brought it up to make us drink, some of the other guys found out and started in on me about it. I had to give up the details."

"I don't believe you" Karen said then started laughing.

"Sorry baby, but we're guys. It was bound to happen."

"See what you have to look forward to" Karen told Natalie.

"Oh I don't think that would ever happen, right Max?"

"Never" Max said kissing her.

He broke apart from her when their food came and they continued to talk as they ate. When they were finished eating, they stayed around for a little while longer having a few more drinks until they were ready to head back to Karen's house.

When they got back to the house, it was nearing 11p and Max didn't want to leave Natalie just yet. Karen invited Max to stay if he didn't feel like driving home. He just smiled and went inside with them. Sidney went upstairs to change and Karen went to the kitchen for a drink of water. AS she got back to the living room, she saw Max and Natalie on the couch kissing and she walked upstairs to change her clothes.

Natalie broke the kiss "wait Max, I think we need to slow down."

"Ok, I won't pressure you but can you honestly tell me that you don't feel this attraction too? I haven't been able to think of anything else but you."

Natalie got up and paced around the room "I do feel it Max, I just don't want us to jump into anything this early and then have you decide that I'm not what you want."

"There's no one else that I want. When we met during the playoffs last year I started to feel something then. After going back home for the summer, I thought about you on a regular basis. I thought that night at Pops was my chance and I didn't want to let that chance go."

"I don't want to be another notch for you. If we start this, we go all out. I want a relationship with you, not just a casual dating thing."

"I want the same thing, you and me. We can go as fast or slow as you want it."

"Good" Natalie smiled at him before grabbing his shirt and pulling him to her "we'll take it slow after tonight." She brought his lips down to hers for a searing kiss. When the kiss ended, she took his hand and led him to her room.

Chapter 74

When Karen was finally done with the dishes and getting everything cleaned up she joined Sidney in the living room. She walked in and he had found a game on tv, she laughed as she sat down beside him.

"If you're not playing it I guess you're watching it."

"What?"

"Um, hockey. Can you not go one day without dealing with the game?"

"Nope" he said putting his arm around her letting her snuggle up to him "it's in my blood."

"We may need to get you a transfusion."

"You love it and you know it."

"You know, you keep watching all these other games and I might find me a new hockey stud."

"That's not possible."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because every guy in the league knows you're mine and they will stay away from you."

Karen sat there laughing "I can't believe you just said that."

Sidney turned off the tv and turned to her "I have to make sure I keep you around. See, I like having you around and don't want to see you with anyone else."

"It would take a lot for that to happen."

"Even if I break my leg and could never play again?"

"Do you think I'm only with you because you play the game? You could be a coal miner and work 12 hour shifts 3 hours away and I would still be with you because I love you and the person you are, not because of what you do or how much you make."

"I know you're not only with me because of who I am and that's what I love about you. You let me be myself and I don't have to be the hockey hero or millionaire that I am."

"Wait? You're a millionaire? That changes everything." Karen tried to hide her smile but couldn't when Sidney busted out laughing as well. "The money is nice and having the title of Sidney Crosby's girlfriend makes it fun when I see the reaction from all the girls at the games, but knowing that I'm the one you want and want to spend your time away from the ice with makes it even better."

"Why mom and dad can't see this I'll never understand."

"You know I was getting turned on but I think I just lost my erection with that comment" she said as she moved to sit up.

"Sorry."

"You must have talked to them."

"Yeah, I was going to tell them about us being back together but as soon as I said your name my dad started up again."

"So they don't like me, it's not the end of the world."

"I know. I just want them to love you like I love you." Karen shot him a look "ok, not exactly like I love you."

"Why don't we head upstairs and I'll let you love me like you want to."

Sidney smiled and stood up helping Karen up. They walked towards the steps and Sidney picked her up and carried her upstairs. He put her down gently by the bed and kept her in front of him.

"Does it hurt if you lay on your bad knee?"

"Not if it's wrapped, why?"

"You'll see."

Sidney kissed Karen as he began to undress her. She got the hint and started to undress him as well. After all clothes had been shed, Sidney carefully picked her up and placed her on the bed. He told her to lay on her left side and after she did, Sidney laid on the bed facing her. He leaned in and kissed her, moving his body as close as he could to hers and not leaving an inch between them.

"Well I like what you have planned so far" Karen said breaking the kiss.

"I'm sure you'll love the rest too."

Sidney brought his hand up and caressed her cheek before diving in for another kiss. He moved his hand from her cheek to her breast, lightly massaging it before moving to her leg. Sidney grabbed her leg and bent it, wrapping it around his hip. They stayed in that position for a little while kissing. Karen felt Sidney become hard against her. She broke the kiss and whispered 'now' to him. Sidney smiled then kissed her again as he moved his hand inbetween them to help guide himself to her entrance. He slowly entered her, not wanting to hurt her since they haven't had sex for a couple months. Karen left his lips and gasped as she felt Sidney stretch her. When he was completely in, Sidney stayed still for a moment, loving the feeling of being inside her again. He started to move slowly at first but went faster when he heard Karen's breathing become heavier. Sidney's hand went to Karen's ass and pushed her into him so he could go deeper with every thrust. Karen buried her head into his neck as her orgasm ripped through her body making her muscles clamp down on him. After a few more thrusts, Sidney dug his fingers into her ass as he came deep inside her.

Sidney brought his hand up and lifted her face towards his, planting kisses to her lips "are you ok?"

"I'm perfect."

"I've missed doing this with you."

"I've missed it too. So how long have you been thinking about this?"

"For awhile now, but I wanted to make sure it would work and not hurt you more."

"I'm surprised it took you this long."

"What's that suppose to mean?" he said laughing.

"I'm just surprised you didn't plan this sooner, or better yet wait for two more weeks."

"Being around you, there was no way I could wait two more weeks."

"I know. You are too irresistable Crosby."

"Like you're not just as irresistable baby."

"Not now I'm not. I need to work out a little bit, getting soft from not working and sitting around."

"You are not getting soft baby."

"Oh stop it, you already got me."

"Yeah I do. Now go to sleep baby" he said as he kissed her forehead and let her get comfortable up against him. "I love you baby."

"I love you too Sid." Karen closed her eyes and fell asleep listening to his heartbeat.

The next week and a half went by and Sidney would be going on a two day road trip over Thanksgiving. Karen had her doctor's appointment on the Tuesday before he left so he could go with her. The new medication brought down some more of the swelling and Karen would be allowed to go back to work on the following Monday. The doctor still ordered her to wear the brace once she got situated on the floor but she could take it off when walking around.

Karen had invited Natalie to the house for their own Thanksgiving dinner and to watch the games. They normally went to Sheril's but she had more family come in this year and Karen didn't want to really be around more people. Besides, Natalie was one of the fortunate ones and didn't have to work the Black Friday rush.

As they watched the game on Wednesday night, Karen saw how Natalie's eyes were fixated on the tv every time Max was on the ice. She had to smile to herself because she was like that with Sidney, well, she still is.

"So, have you talked to Max lately?" Karen asked with a smile.

"He's called me a couple of times and when he was away for games."

"Isn't that what a boyfriend does?"

"I don't know, is that what Sid does?"

"Yeah."

"Then that's what a boyfriend does."

"Come on Nat, why won't you give him a chance?"

"Because I'm not about to be a notch on his hockey stick. I've heard the stories, I've seen the pictures online. I'm not stupid Kiki, I know he's a player and I am not about to set myself up like that."

"Maybe he was like that but maybe he was also waiting for the right woman to come along and change all that for him."

"Why are you pushing for this to happen?"

"Because I want to see you happy. Max is smart and funny and sexy and that accent....you know as well as I do how accents make any man sexier then he already is. Just think of all those night he could speak French to you."

"Ok, stop it."

"What? Besides I would love to have you to talk to in the player's lounge before a game."

"Why don't you talk to the other wives or girlfriends?"

"Because they don't talk to me. I'm not saying there rude or stuck up they just don't seem to want to talk to me. A couple of them are nice though but I'd rather have you there."

"It's probably because you don't sit with them during the games."

"I'm not giving up my season tickets just because I'm dating Sidney to go sit with the them. Plus I've seen them sit there and be very uninterested in the game and you know I'm not like that."

"Yeah I know. Even if there's kids around you and Sheril's mouths know no limits."

"How about this, one day during December the four of us go out for dinner? That way there's no pressure on you, we all just go and have fun."

"Alright I guess I can do that."

Karen sat there smiling at her friend until she smiled back. They watched the rest of the game and then went to bed. The next morning Karen got up and got the turkey fixed and in the oven. She was going to go lay back down because her knee was still hurting a bit. She twisted in bed wrong the night before and her knee felt like it popped. As soon as she laid down, her cell phone went off. When she picked it up, she saw it was Sidney.

"Did they give you today off?"

"Morning baby. No, we've got a practice in a couple of hours and I was just laying here missing you beside me."

"Well I always miss you when you're not beside me. Especially since I only have a few more days at home before I go back to work on Monday."

"I thought you were going to be commuting now."

"I am but you have three road games next week and two of them are back to back games."

"But I'll be home Monday and you can wake up with me beside you on Tuesday. Just plan to stay at Maggie's from Tuesday night on. I'll be home late Saturday night."

"You drive a hard bargain Crosby."

"I know. So what are you up to today?"

"Well Natalie is here and I already have a turkey in the oven baking. So in a few hours we'll get the rest done and have an early dinner."

"Wish I was there then here that's for sure."

"Anytime you want me to make you a turkey dinner I will stud."

"I'm going to hold you to that baby. I better go get ready for practice. I love you and I will see late Friday night."

"I love you too and I will save a space for you in bed when you get home."

"Sounds good. Bye baby."

"Bye stud."

They hung up, each smiling to themselves. Karen put her phone on her nightstand and curled under the covers for a nap. A couple hours later, Karen got up and headed downstairs to check on the turkey. She heard talking and went towards the voice. Karen smiled when she heard Natalie on her cell phone talking to Max. She knew it was Max because Natalie said his name at least four times since she was standing there. Karen quietly walked back into the kitchen and checked the turkey seeing it still have a couple hours and at least an hour to get everything else done. She walked into the kitchen and turned on the tv waiting for Natalie to come join her.

A few minutes later she did and they watched a movie for an hour. They got the rest of the food ready and everything was ready when the turkey was done. When they were eating they talked more about the possible double date and Karen picked up that Natalie was indeed getting used to the idea of dating Max. She couldn't wait to make sure it happened. After they ate and got cleaned up, they settled in for the rest of the day.

Chapter 73

Karen and Max talked for a couple hours. It was getting close to 4p and Karen went to the kitchen to start dinner. She wanted to make lasagne and since it took time to get it together, she wanted to start early. Max sat in the living room and thought about what Karen said.

Flahback

"First tell me what happened that night at Pops" Karen said curiously wanting to know.

"Well, when we showed up and sat with you guys Nat and I just started talking and I guess as more alcohol flowed the more we started to flirt around. I had my arm around her and she put her hand on my thigh a couple of times." Karen smiled remembering that first night out with Sidney where the exact same thing happened between them.

"Ok, so we got the flirting down. She said you kissed her before she left."

"Yeah, I don't know what came over me. You and Sid stepped away to talk and I didn't want her to leave, so I grabbed her and kissed her."

"Well there's nothing wrong with innocent flirting but I think that kiss threw her for a loop."

"I know I couldn't stop thinking about it and afterwards she gave me her number and I know I was probably annoying with calling her everyday but I wanted to see if what we started that night was real. She agreed to go out with me for dinner and we didn't plan on having sex but it just happened. There's this attraction to her I can't shake and I want to try this with her."

"I have to say Max that I am impressed with how you're handling this with her. Nat is a complicated woman when it comes to relationships."

"She mentioned about that. What does she think, every guy is going to hurt her?"

"Yeah. Max, Nat is one of my best friends and she's like my sister. I love her to death, but she has been hurt a lot. Most acquaintances started off like you two did but after something happened, she never heard from them again or they stayed for a month or two and treated her like a doormat."

"But I'm not like that."

"I know you're not Max and I think spending those few days during the playoffs with you as a 'friend' helped her see that but confused her feelings a little bit more. She's just being cautious Max."

"I know and I don't blame her. Will you talk to her for me?"

"Maybe we can do one better."

"What do you mean?"

"Maybe you guys and Sid and I can have a double date and that way, you can start off right."

"I like that. Thanks Karen, you are a great friend."

"I just want the best for my friends."

End of Flashback

As Max sat there on the couch, Sidney came in a few minutes later and saw him there.

"What is it about my girlfriend that all you guys have to migrate towards her?" Sidney said putting his bag down in the hall.

"Well you know Sid, we've heard all about her from you and we're just so jealous that we sneak time with her whenever you're not around" Max said smiling as he got up to greet his friend.

"Is that right? I may need to stop talking about her then."

"That wouldn't happen, you're too much in love with me" Karen said coming out of the kitchen and obviously hearing what was said.

Sidney wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her "that is true. I'd shout it off the rooftops every morning if you'd let me."

"I don't ever remembering telling you that you couldn't."

Sidney leaned down to kiss her "maybe later. So, Max what brings you here?"

"Just needed to talk to Karen about something. But now I am going to leave you two alone and head out."

"You sure? I made plenty for dinner and would love for you to stay."

"I appreciate that but I've taken up enough of your time, let you and Sid enjoy some time alone."

"Please I've been alone with him all morning, I could use a change."

"Thanks baby, I appreciate that" Sidney said sulking into the living room.

Karen hobbled in after him and sat down on the couch beside him "I'm sorry stud" she said kissing his cheek.

"Fine, but you will pay for that later."

"Mm, can't wait to see what you have planned."

"Yeah, I'm definitely going to go now" Max said laughing. "Thanks again Karen and I will see you later Sid."

They said goodbye to Max and Sidney just looked at Karen "so why was he here?"

"I'll tell you during dinner" Karen said getting up to go back into the kitchen with Sidney close behind. Karen got the lasagne out of the oven and put in the garlic bread to get done while the lasagne cooled a little.

Sidney grabbed ahold of her when she stood back up from the oven and turned her to face him "why can't I know now?"

"Wow, you are impatient. Fine, we were coming up with a plot to meet in secret to have a rendevous so you wouldn't find out but you like to spoil my fun."

"I think your new meds are making you crazier then you already are. Why was he really here?"

"Do you not trust me with any of your teammates or something because I am getting offended here?"

"I'm not asking to offend you and I might seem jealous when I see Geno act the way he does around you and now coming home to see Max here" Sidney stops when he sees Karen smiling "why are you smiling this is serious to me."

"I'm smiling for two reasons. One, I love how protective you're being and two, I love it even more when you talk about coming home to me. Look, you have nothing to worry about with any of them. I love you and only want you so back down off the 'no other man can look at my woman' attitude."

"Sorry, really, I just protect what I love."

"Then I guess that means you love me."

"I never said that, did I?"

Karen shook her head and laughed "you are so not right." She got out of his grip when the oven timer went off and got the bread out before it burned. They sat down and began to eat.

"This is amazing baby, how come you've never made this for me before?" he said taking a bite.

"Well lasagne takes time to make getting it put together so I like to save it for every once and a while."

"Will you please tell me what you were talking to Max about?" Sidney asked with the pleading puppy dog eyes that he has.

"He came over to ask for some advice about Natalie. She is being cautious and Max wants to be convincing that he's not like all the others. So I told him that the four of us will go out on a double date and maybe they'll both relax and be themselves."

"Well that was sweet of you baby. When are we going out?"

"Not sure. We'll have to look at your schedule and I'll have to see when Natalie has off. If I know her and I think I do, she won't be going home afterwards or work the next day."

"Why do you say that?"

"Remember when were at Pops that first night and you instinctively put your arm around me?"

"Oh, the night when your hand found my thigh and it was there most of the night?"

"Yeah well apparently that's what happened between them at Pops after the home opener. They were flirting and Max said he put his arm around her and her hand rested on his thigh."

"So then we have another 'us' then?"

"God I hope not. I don't know if I could handle Max if he starts to act like you" she said smiling sweetly at him.

"You just love to do that huh?"

"Yeah I do."

Sidney picked up her hand and kissed it before they finished eating. Twenty minutes later, they got done eating and was cleaning up. Karen was doing the dishes when Sidney came up behind her and began to kiss her neck. He brought her hands out of the water and dried them off before turning her to face him. He lightly pushed her up against the sink, pressing his body into her as he kissed her again.

"Baby, we just got done eating" Karen said breaking the kiss.

"So, it's not like we're going to go swimming."

"Sid..."

"Look, I know you said your knee won't bend right now, but I've been thinking about this. Just let me try something and if you start hurting I will stop, I promise. Please?"

"Damn you. You know I can't resist you when you beg."

"I know, why do you think I go there?"

"Can we at least let dinner digest for a little bit first?"

"I think I can let that happen." Sidney kissed her again only to be pushed away so Karen could finish cleaning up the kitchen. She told him to go wait in the living room until she was done. He kissed her once more and left.