Just a note...

Sid's POV is meant to be read before chapter 66, so please read them in that order! Sorry for the mix up and happy reading!

Sid's POV

By the time I got back to the hotel after doing press I was exhausted and just wanted to take a nap. When I opened the door I couldn't believe what I saw.
"What the hell are you doing here?"
"We need to talk about things."
"I don't have anything else to say right now dad. I'm still angry."
"I know you are and you have every right to be, but we need to fix things. I can't stand you being mad at me. I know I screwed up, but I'm trying to make things right here Sid."
I was stunned! As I lived and breathed, Troy Crosby admitted he made a mistake?
"I'm listening," I said sitting down on the bed across from him.
"I love you more than anything else in this world. Everything I have ever done has been out of love and to try and protect you. I judged Bekah by outward appearance before I actually got to know her and that was wrong. I am so sorry for interfering in your personal life, and I hope you will be able to forgive me.I want you to know that I talked to Bekah before I came here. I apologized and I got to know her a bit better. I had alot of questions and she graciously answered all of them. She really is a very remarkable girl. It's hard to fathom some of the things she went through at such a young age. I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy. You were right son. She is all of the things you said she was and more. You would be very lucky to have someone like that in your life and I told her that. If you want to be with Bekah, you have my blessing."
"Wow."
"That's all you have to say?"
"I'm just trying to wrap my brain around the fact that you not only admitted you were wrong, but you said the words 'I'm sorry' all in the same day!"
"Christ Sidney, this is not really the time for sarcasm!"
"You know what hurt more than you getting involved the way you did to try and destroy our relationship dad?"
"What?"
"The fact that you had so little faith in me. You didn't trust my character and my instincts in choosing who I let into my life. I thought knew me better than that."
"You're absolutely right. I was afraid that you were getting caught up in the chase and not the person and I was wrong. I know you know that you have to be extra careful and I should have trusted that you knew what you were doing. I just want to get past this Sidney. Put it in the past and move forward. I want you to be happy. That's all I've ever wanted for you."
"I know. And I am. Bekah makes me happy. And I'm happy that you are here. I need you here with me."
"Does this mean that you forgive me?"
"Well, someone very wise once told me that life is too short to be angry with the people you love. Forgive before it's too late. So yes, I forgive you."
"Who told you that?"
"Bekah."
"Of course she did! I mean it Sidney. She really is a wonderful girl. You are very lucky."
"Thanks and trust me, I know how lucky I am to have her in my life."
"I love you son," he said hugging me.
"I love you too dad."

Chapter 66

I really wasn't looking forward to the next week. Sid was on a road trip and I was left here with my negative thoughts. He was playing back home in Canada for the first time and I knew he was excited so I really tried to be excited for him. I knew the one thing he wasn't looking forward to was playing the Leafs an Saturday because that meant Don Cherry. Sid had taken alot of slack from Cherry about being a "whiner" and a "diver" since the beginning of the season and it only escalated when the Pen's new coach gave him the A. Sidney was perfect in the press saying only that everyone was entitled to their own opinion and appeared as though he let the hurtful comments roll of his back, but I knew different. He had confided in me how hurt he truly was.



------flashback to a few weeks ago-------------



"I just go out and play my game. When I am blatantly getting tripped and slashed and it's not being called of course I'm going to say something! I can take being called a cry baby or whatever the hell they're saying. What I can't take is being called a diver. That shows a complete disrespect for the game and the fact that anyone, especially people like Forsberg and Cherry; people I have admired and respected, would think that I have that kind of disrespect for this game really hurts. It hurts. I love this game and everything it represents. I would never do anything to disrespect it."

I took him in my arms and wiped away the few tears that rolled down his cheek.

"I can't imagine how you must feel, but there is one thing I do know. People are threatened by greatness, especially when they themselves were once known as being great. You are so much more than great, and everyone knows it. They are scared of what you might be able to accomplish, so they will say anything to try and bring you down a peg. It's not a personal attack against you, it's a defense mechanism for them. There is nothing you can do except keep being the kind of player you are, it's worked for you so far. Keep learning and improving and show all the doubters that you are everything that you've been hyped to be; the next great one, the face of the NHL! That will make them even more crazy!

He wrapped me in a tight embrace and kissed me on the top of the head.
"I really don' know what I'd do without you," he whispered. "It's hard to talk about some of the feelings and doubts that I have. I can't tell my dad because I'm not supposed to have negative thoughts or feelings. Thank you. Thank you for being my safe place."

--------------end flashback--------------


I was nearly asleep when my phone rang.
"Hey beautiful, you weren't asleep were you?" an exhausted voice purred from the other end.
"Not quite, but it sounds like you could use some sleep."
"I am beat. The adrenaline is finally wearing off."
"Yes, great game tonight 'first star'!"
"You were watching?"
"Of course! Me and the boys. I thought Jake was going to do a back flip when you scored the game winner!"
"Awe, that's awesome. I really miss you guys."
"We miss you too. Alex was asking when you were going to be home so he could beat you at NHL 06!"
"Oooh tough guy huh? You tell him I accept his challenge and when I come back on the 8th, it's game on!"
"You don't get enough hockey in real life, so you have to play it in video games too?"
"You can never get enough hockey!"
"It's awfully quiet there. Where's Colby?"
"A bunch of the guys went out to celebrate the win, he went with them."
"Why didn't you go? You of all people should be celebrating."
"I can't go anywhere here without causing mass hysteria. The press has been brutal and the fans are everywhere. I have to sneak out back doors, it's completely crazy. It's better that I don't go. The guys will have a better time without having to worry about that bullshit. I'm just gonna watch a tape of the World Junior game I missed."
"Sidney that is soooo sad. I hate thinking about you sitting there by yourself while the other guys are out having a good time. It breaks my heart."
"You get used to it, besides I am talking to my amazing girlfriend and my dad's going to come up and watch the game with me later."
"Still you shouldn't have to hide out in your hotel room. And thank you, you're pretty amazing yourself."
"We talked about this Beks. It's part of my life. You have to take the good with the bad. And I know I am amazing!"
"You also know how to ruin a moment!"
"But I know how to create a few good one's too!"
I thought back to New Year's Eve.
"That you do," I replied smiling even though he couldn't see me.
"Made you smile didn't I?"
"Yes, you did."
"Hey, my dad's here so I'm going to let you go and I'll call you tomorrow after practice."
"Oh right, at your dad's old arena right?"
"The very one. He's got alot of great memories from there, so it'll be so great for him to be back here."
"Well I hope you two have a great time, I'm glad he's there with you."
"Yeah, me too," he said sheepishly.
"I guess I was right then huh?"
"I'm glad I listened to you."
"Because I was right."
"You gave some good advise, yes."
"You can't say it can you?"
"Nope!"
I could hear him smiling.
"Well, if we're going to be together Crosby, you'd better practise saying it, because it happens quite often, and I will expect to hear it every time it does!"
"Put your pj's on baby, cause you're dreaming!"
"Sidney Patrick Crosby, that is rude!"
He was laughing hysterically by this point.
"I love you mon petit bijou! I'll talk to you tomorrow.
"Yeah well you're lucky I love you too!"
"I know I am. Give the boys a kiss from me. Sweet dreams."


I closed my eyes with a smile on my face. I couldn't believe that I had shut myself off from the possibility of love for so long. It actually made my heart happy just hearing the words 'I love you' from someone other than my children. I guess my choice was made. I choose to let go of the pain and anger that has has a hold on my heart for so long. I choose to be happy. I choose to be in love.

Chapter 65

"Mommyyyyyyyyy!" was Jake's greeting as he dropped his coat at the front door and ran towards me. "Mommy I missed you," he said wrapping his arms around my neck.
"I missed you too sweet tart," I replied, planting a kiss on the tip of his nose.
"What about you Alex? Do I even get a hello?"
"Wh...uh hey mom," he muttered without looking up from the video game Sid had picked out for him for Christmas.
"Well that was heartfelt!" I said to no one in particular as both boys immediately went to their rooms to make sure all their Christmas loot was still where they left it.

"Well, how'd it go?" Lily asked unable to control her curiosity any longer.
"It went okay," I replied.
"Okay as in 'I will have you forcefully removed if you come anywhere near my son' or okay as in 'you are the perfect girl for my son, welcome to the family'?"
"More the second one I guess."
"Seriously?"
"We had a really great talk. I think he was just concerned because he didn't know anything about my background and stuff-especially with regards to the kids."
"So what did you tell him?" Lily asked wrinkling her forehead.
"The truth. Everything. He knows about my parents, David, and my history with Jeff. He knows what I went through to get where I am today and what my intentions are towards Sid."
"And Troy was alright with everything?" she asked skeptically.
"He seemed to be. He actually said he could see why Sid loves me and that I was good for Sid. Can you believe that?"
"Um...no, not really. I can't believe he did a complete 180! Don't get me wrong, it's great...if it's for real. I hope he's not trying to pull something."
"Believe me, I've thought the exact same thing. But I do have faith that what he's told me is true. I also believe that he would do anything to make things right with Sidney, even if it means giving me a chance."
"And how did Sid take the news?"
"Like us, skeptical at first. I don't think he's ready to let go of his anger yet. He couldn't understand how I could forgive Troy so easily."
"Honestly, I don't either."
"He loves Sidney and so do I. We both want him to be happy. I know Sid's relationship with his father is extremely important to him and Troy knows that Sid's relationship with me is extremely important to him, so we have a common ground. Life is too short to be angry with the one's you love. I wish I had a father that loved me and looked out for me the way Troy does. I just reminded Sid that we are all not that fortunate."
"Wow! I think I like Bekah-in-love! You're actually dare I say...happy?"
"Yeah, you could say that but..."
"Oh no no no! No yeah buts! The most amazing guy is in love with you and he happens to be the best thing to hit the NHL in years, not to mention he's smokin' hot! So no yeah buts, just enjoy it!
Let yourself be happy."
"I'm really trying Lily, but he just said something that kind of freaked me out a little."
"What's that, marry me? Get over it! Say hell yeah!"
"Lily please, I'm serious. When we were talking about how I wished I had a dad that cared about me like he does, he asked if it was possible to love your kids too much. I said you can never love your kids too much and he said 'I guess I'll find out when I have my own kids.' That freaks me out."
"Why? He adores the boys and he wants to have kids of his own. I fail to see what's so terrible about that Bekah."
"He wants kids of his own. I don't want more kids. Right off the bat we have a fundamental difference in where we see our futures. It can only end badly, so why bother?"
"Things change Bekah. You may not want kids now, but you're telling me that if things go well and you end up with Sid for the long haul, you won't want to have his children?"
"No. It would be like having a second family. The boys are so old already and were talking years down the road here. Besides, even if I wanted to, I can't."
"What do you mean you can't?"
"After Jake was born, and the beatings got worse, I wanted to make sure I didn't bring another child into that mess, so I got my tubes tied. I can never give Sid children."
"Those things can be reversed. You see it all the time!"
"The physical challenge isn't even the point. It goes back to the age thing and being in different phases of our lives. He's young and just starting out. By the time he's ready to settle down and have kids, I'll most likely be pushing forty and both my kids will be grown. How do we build a relationship when I already know it will never last?"
"Have you talked to him about it?"
"God no! I was just a fluke comment he said in passing. He's not at the stage where he's actually thinking about having kids, but it was enough to make me think about it."
"Well, you were the one who always said the basis of any relationship was trust and honesty. You could never be with someone you didn't trust or that you couldn't be honest with. You've been honest with Sid about your past which tells me you trust him right?"
"Yes."
"Then, you need to keep being honest with him. Tell him how you feel, he might surprise you."
"After everything we've just been through, after everything I've put him through, we're just starting to get things figured out. We just agreed to start dating for crying out loud! I can't drop something so...so...heavy on him. Besides, two people that just agreed to start dating should not be having any conversations about having children together!"
"Well the way I see it you have two choices. You can tell him how you feel which could very possibly end things before they really get started, or you can forget that those words ever came out of his mouth and be happy dating one of the most amazing guys in the world and see where it takes you."
"I don't know if I can just pretend that something that important doesn't hang over our relationship."
"Well those are really your only two choices. Soooooo....choose."

Sid's POV

I was going crazy! I couldn't take it anymore. I had to vent to someone. There was only one person who knew the whole truth about what's been going on.
I banged on Flower's door and paced the floor until he opened it.
"What the hell took you so long?" I snapped at him as I brushed by him and flung myself down on one of the beds.
"What is wrong with you?" he asked shutting the door behind me.
I got up and started pacing around the room muttering to myself. Marc sat at the end of the bed and just watched with amusement. When I finally took a second to look around the room, it looked like a bomb had gone off.
"Jesus Flower, we've only been here for a couple of hours! How the hell do you make this big of a mess in that short of time?" I said picking up some of the clothes off the floor and throwing them at him.
"What can I say? It's a talent!"
"It's disgusting."
Marc raised his eyebrow and gave me that puzzled French look. (Yes, some of the French have a very distinct look when they are confused).
"Okay Sid, I'll bite. Is something bothering you?" Marc asked with that toothy grin of his.
"No."
"Really? You sure fooled me! Is it your dad again?"
"No. Yes. Kind of. I just don't' understand what the hell is taking so long. She should have called by now. What could he possibly be saying to her now?"
"Whoa, back up champ. What and who are you talking about?"
"My dad and Bekah. They were meeting tonight so he could supposedly apologize to her, but I don't know Flower. I don't have a good feeling about this."
"Wait; your dad...thee Troy Crosby...is apologizing to someone?"
"Supposedly."
"When did hell freeze over?"
"Very funny Flower!"
"Seriously...I didn't think he had the words 'I'm sorry' in his vocabulary."
"Well I wouldn't think he'd use those words. I'm sure if he is really apologizing, he's doing it in a round about way. That is so besides the point right now. I just want to know what the hell is going on. What's taking so long?"
"N'inquietez pas mon ami. I'm sure everything is fine. She'll call you as soon as she can."
"But I am worried. My dad has already cost me enough time with her."
"Know what your problem is mon ami? You try to hard to make everyone else happy and forget about yourself. You can't stand being mad at your dad and you don't want Bekah to be hurt if you're not mad at him. It's lose/lose."
"I do hate being mad at my dad, but I am, and rightfully so. I'm not worried about how Bekah will feel when things are okay with me and him. I am worried about when thing will be okay with us. He broke my trust, Marc. He's the one that taught me trust was the most important element of any relationship. If we can't get that back, then what?"
"You will. He's making a good first step non?"
"Oui. He is. I just need to know what's happening."
"Patience mon ami. Patience."
"Not exactly my strong suit Flower."
"You're not kidding! Why don't you come to dinner with us? Hang out, try and keep your mind off it."
"As if..."

As if on cue my phone rang.
"Hello, Bekah?"
"Yeah, it's me. Why do you sound out of breath?"
"Uhh...I'm not, I'm fine. How'd it go?"
She chuckled.
"It's been driving you crazy all day hasn't it?"
"No."
"You are such a liar Crosby! I bet you've been sitting in your hotel room pacing the floor waiting for me to call haven't you?"
"Nooooo."
"Sidney?"
"Actually it was Marc's room but that's besides the point! What happened?"
"Sidney, really! You are such a drama queen! Nothing happened! We met for coffee and had a nice chat."
"Chat? A chat? Troy Crosby does not chat! Interrogate maybe, but not chat!"
"Okay, so maybe it was a little like an interrogation, but he's just trying to look out for you. He wanted to know who his son is spending his time with, just like any good parent would."
"Are you actually defending him?"
"No. But I'm a parent too Sid. I understand where his concern was coming from."
"So what did he ask you?"
"What didn't he ask? Your father is now very well versed on everything that has happened in my life. We talked about everything from my family or lack there of, my brother, the kids' father, why I moved to Pittsburgh and why I love you."
"You told him...everything?"
"Yes. I'm not going to hide anything from him. How am I supposed to get him to trust me if I lie to him. I'm not ashamed of my past, I may regret some things in it, but who doesn't? Your dad has the right to know exactly who I am and what I'm about. Now he does."
"And what did he have to say about it?"
"Why don't you ask him that yourself?"
"Beks, now is not the time for games."
"I'm not playing games. If you want to know how your father feels about me, you should ask him yourself."
"I'm just not sure I'm ready to talk to him yet."
"Sid, you need to get over it!"
"Beks, he almost destroyed us..."
"But he didn't."
"He said heinous things to you..."
"They were just words Sidney."
"I can't believe what I'm hearing! Have you actually forgiven him for everything he said; everything he did to us?"
"If I've learned anything, it's that life is too short! You can't hold grudges forever. He is your father, and he loves you. He was trying to protect you. I would give anything to have a father who loved me the way your father loves you. You should be grateful."
"I am. It's just hard sometimes. Do you think it's possible to love your kids too much?"
"Never. It is possible to go a little overboard in the protection department, but you can never love your kids enough!"
"I'll find that out when I have my own kids right?"
Silence.
"Bekah? Are you still there?"
"Uh... yeah. Look, just call your dad and talk to him. I think he really needs to know that you two are okay. I have to go. I'll talk to you later."
"Beks, you okay?"
"Mmm hmm."
"O...kaaay. I'll call you tomorrow?"
"Yeah, that's fine. I'll talk to you then."
"Forgetting something?"
"What?"
Is she serious? I thought.
"I love you."
Another awkward silence.
"I love you too Sid. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Bye."
That was just bizarre. Why did her mood change all of a sudden?

Pens vs Wings Pics

The face offs were the only time they were still enough
to get a decent shot. All of these were taken during the
miracle third period.

By this time most of the obnoxious Wings fans left thinking

they had the game in the bag! I wonder how they felt when

they all got up this morning and found out they lost????

Close enough to see the sweat dripping! Who knew he was

about to have a banner night!

Geno was the last one to leave the ice after warm up.

It was extremely difficult to get any good face shots. By the

time they were close enough to get a good one, they were

gone!

Mmmmmmm!

The one chance I got to take a face shot and the reflection

was horrible! Plus it was hard to take a picture when all

I wanted to do was look at this beautiful creature!

Max was the only one who ever looked up into the crowd.

Ever the flirt, he seemed to be amused by the legions of

female admirers of all ages!

Timing was slightly off to get Sid and Geno in the shot!

Flower!

Sabourin

Flower!

My other personal favourite spent alot of time right

in front of us! I was too in awe to get any real good pictures!

Literally only a few feet away! If it weren't for that damn

glass...

Yum!

The kid in action!

WOW!!!!!

Okay, so I'm sure you all know how the game turned out last night. It was amazing, truly the best game I have ever been to!!! Magic! I have been to games in Detroit before and frankly it is my opinion that Detroit fans are not just hard core fans, but hard core haters of any other team and are extremely rude and ignorant about it. I was fortunate to be sitting in a sea of Penguin fans and we sure made ourselves known. Even better than getting to see our boys for the first time was being able to say "IN YOUR FACE RED WING FANS!"
On the lighter side, I got to go down to the glass in the Pen's end during warm up to take pictures and marvel in the awesomeness of our boys. I wasn't sure what to do; take pictures or just stare! Sid, Letang, Geno, Max, Fleury and Staal spent alot of time right in front of me. I still can't get over the fact that I was that close to them (Does it really matter that the glass was between us?) All I can say is photos do not do these boys justice! Sooooooooooooooooo much better in person! Alot of the pictures did not turn out so well because my flash was giving glare off the glass. That being said, I will post some of the better ones I got as soon as I figure out how to do it on here. If anyone has any pointers, let me know!

Chapter 64

I just wanted to let you all know that I am going to the game in Detroit tomorrow night and I can even tell you how excited I am! It's my first time seeing our boys live! The only thing better would be to see them at home in Pittsburgh (but I am not complaining!) If I get any good pictures I'll be sure to share them!



Troy was waiting for me outside the restaurant when I got there.
"Bekah, I'm so glad you could make it," he greeted politely while extending his arm for me to hold onto.
I thought back to the night I started to fall in love with Sid; the night Mario was admitted to the hospital for his irregular heartbeat. Sidney had made the same gentlemanly gesture walking me to my car.
"Thank you," I said taking Troy's arm. "I see where your son gets his manners from."
"They have a table reserved for us in the back corner. I thought it would be a little quieter back there."
'Quieter or less witnesses?' I thought to myself. Once we were seated and ordered our coffee, Troy wasted no time getting down to business.
"I'm sure you are already aware that Sidney has talked to me about this situation and that things are not good between us right now?"
"I knew he was going to talk to you, but wasn't sure when. I just want you to know that I was not the one who told him what happened. I would never do anything to come between you and Sidney."
"It doesn't matter who told him. There should have been nothing to tell. I crossed the line here Bekah and I am sorry."
Hmmm? No sign of the evil cyborg Troy from a few weeks ago!
"I understand that you feel you need to protect your son, believe me I know! I just think your protection was a little misguided."
"One of my greatest fears is the fear of the unknown. This is unknown territory for all of us. Sidney has never had a serious girlfriend, hell I don't think there's ever been anyone he could handle more than a few dates with," Troy said kind of chuckling. "Then you come along and you're older and have kids and don't take this the wrong way, but who knows what else going on in your life. Everything is unknown about you."
"In all fairness Troy, you never took the time to find out. I know you need to be sure about who Sidney spends his time with, so just ask me. Now is the time to lay everything out on the table; anything you want to know I'll tell you."
"That could take a very long time. I have soooo many questions."
"I don't have anywhere else to be."
"Okay. Where are you from?"
"London, Ontario."
"A Canadian girl eh? And the Knights at that. We were there for the Memorial Cup you know?"
"Yes, I know. I was there."
"Why did you move to Pittsburgh?"
"Three reasons actually; my grandmother, my brother and Mario."
"That's an...an odd answer. Your grandmother and brother live here then?"
"No. My grandmother and brother both passed away when I was 14. I was extremely close to both of them and didn't take their deaths very well. The one thing that bonded us all together was hockey. My grandmother LOVED Mario and passed that on to us. My brother played hockey. He was amazing. Sid reminds me alot of him actually. David was on a very similar career path until he died."
"May I ask how he died?" Troy asked thoughtfully.
"He had Leukemia. No one suspected anything. We were at a tournament in Toronto when he collapsed and got rushed to Sick Kids. They diagnosed him and he never left. It was only a matter of a few months before he died. The disease was so far advanced that no treatment could help. He died only months after my grandmother. I was devastated. They were all I had."
"What about your parents?"
"That's a whole other can of worms. My parents adopted me when they thought they couldn't have children. Then David came along, he was their biological child, and I pretty much stopped existing in their world. Long story short, my grandmother was the one who practically raised me. David always felt guilty for the way they treated me, but they didn't have much to do with either of us. My mother was against all things sport related. She thought hockey was barbaric and never got over me and my grandmother supporting David's dream of playing professionally. She was far too busy with social engagements and country club functions to bother with us anyway. My father worked constantly, never took his nose out of his paperwork or the business section of the newspaper. Both of them blamed me for David's death. I was with him when he got sick and I couldn't save him. Siblings tend to be the best bone marrow matches and since we were not biologically related..."
"That's absurd! How could they blame you for something like that? I'm sorry but these people don't deserve to have children!"
"Well, I guess they don't really. Not anymore. My mother hasn't really spoken to me since David died, that's 18 years now. As a matter of fact, David died the same day Sid was born, only a few minutes apart. That's one of the reasons I'm convinced Sidney is supposed to be part of my life. Anyways...after David died I went completely berserk! Got into some trouble and met a guy who promised to take care of me. I got pregnant, we got married and well, ultimately got divorced."
"Do you mind me asking what happened?"
"He was extremely abusive, to me, never the boys, but I wasn't about to take any chances. After he'd beaten me one night over a towel on the floor, I decided enough was enough. I packed up the boys and left."
"Do the boys see him?"
"No. Once the divorce was final and he had no visitation granted I moved away. He has no idea where we are. So I worked crappy jobs to support us while I went to nursing school, a career choice inspired by my brother, and when I graduated, I got a great job at the Children's hospital in Toronto. Loved working there and when my boss heard of job openings here, she thought of me. I wasn't really up for moving again but a promise I had made to both my grandmother and David was the deciding factor."
"What promise was that?"
"The promise to come to Pittsburgh and see Mario play. I got lucky when he came out of retirement the first time, I knew I didn't have much more time if I was going to fulfill the promise so I came. The day I came to see Mario for the first time was the day I met you and Sidney. I know it sounds bizarre, but it's just another thing that happened to bring Sidney and I together."
"Before today, I would have thought that you were out of your mind. Now I'm not so sure. You have had quite a life already young lady. I guess that's another thing you and Sidney have in common. You both grew up faster than you should have. You're both very goal oriented. In fact, I must say that I admire you greatly for having a goal and working hard to achieve it, especially as a single parent. You must have great strength and courage. I can see why my son loves you."
"And I love him. I didn't think it would happen ever again, but it has. Sid is the first person I've been interested in since my divorce. Getting involved with someone just wasn't an option for me. I didn't want my boys getting attached to anyone and I didn't want to get close to anyone again. But Sid changed all that. He kind of pushed his way into my life and now I can't get rid of him! Nor do I want to. I'm not interested in his money, I can support myself. I could care less about his fame, although I would prefer that it wasn't a factor, but it is. It's part of him and I accept that. I love him for the wonderful and amazing person he is. The person you moulded him into. I can only hope I do half as good of job with my boys that you and Trina have done with Sid."
"Judging from what I've seen and heard so far, you are well on your way. They seem to be two pretty special kids."
"I hope so. Can I just tell you one last thing to hopefully put your mind at ease?"
"I don't think it needs any more easing but go ahead."
"Sidney and I have talked in great depth about what his life is like and what it would mean to my life to be involved with him. We both think it would be a good idea to keep any relationship we have quiet. We are not even going to tell the boys right away. As far as they are concerned we're just friends anyways. I am not ready to be thrust into the spotlight as Sidney Crosby's girlfriend by any means. I am a very private person and would like to keep that as long a possible. It would mean alot to both Sidney and I if we were able to be open with our family and closest friends. He values your love and support above anything else and I know it would be so great for him to have it when it comes to this. It would kill him to do anything that you disapprove of and I will not be the one that comes between the two of you. I hope that we will have your support for any kind of relationship that we decide to have."
"I think it's the least I can do considering what I've put you both through. I am so sorry Bekah. Can you ever forgive the horrible things I said and did?"
"Already done. It doesn't matter how we got here. What matters is that you took the time to get to know me. Thank you."
"Sidney was right you know. You are exactly the kind of girl that he should be with. I don't think I could ask for anyone better for my son.

Chapter 63

"Troy, what's going on?" Trina asked extremely concerned. "Why is Sidney so angry with you?"
Troy knew he couldn't deny it any longer. If he didn't tell his wife what he'd done, Sidney certainly would and then there would be little hope of putting a positive spin on it.
"Sit down T, it's a long story."

Troy proceeded to tell Trina everything he had done and said to keep their son away from Bekah. Of course he made sure to emphasize how much he loved Sidney and was only trying to protect him and his future.

Trina tried to remain calm while each disgusting detail rolled off her husband's lips. After taking a few moments to let the information sink in, she spoke.
"You lied to me. I asked you outright if Sidney's problems had anything to do with Bekah and you lied to me! You told that beautifully innocent young girl, a girl our son is in love with, despicable lies to keep her away from him. Is that what you're telling me?" she asked coolly.
"Yes. And she's not young and innocent, that's the whole problem!"
"No...the problem is YOU! I can't believe that you would deliberately do this to Sidney, or Bekah for that matter! I know you're trying to do what's best for him, but you have crossed the line Troy. You're not only messing with Sidney's life, but Bekah's and those boys too!"
"Is that what you want for our son Trina? You want Sid to be an 18 year old step father to 2 kids that are almost the same age as his sister for Christ sake?"
"Don't you think you're over reacting just a bit? He's not marrying this girl next week; he just wants to date her. He's in love with her. He needs to explore that, and find out where it takes him."
"He's going to get hurt," Troy said sitting next to his wife and holding his head in his hands.
"And if he does, we'll be there for him. He's a big boy now honey," Trina said putting a comforting arm around her husband. "We've done everything we can do for him. We taught him values, to be a kind, loving and respectable human being, and how to make good choices. We have to trust him."
"But she's so...so...so much older than he is! And what about those kids? Where is their father anyways? Why would he want to do this to himself?"
"Because he's in love with her Troy."
"He doesn't know what love is."
"I think he does. After all, he's had us as role models," she said taking his hand in hers and giving it a loving squeeze. "Where would we be if I had of listened to everyone who told me to stay away from you because we were too young to be together?"
"And look how much we had to struggle; living with my mother; everything. I don't want him to suffer the same fate we did."
"And what fate would that be? Happily married for almost 20 years with 2 of the most amazing children on the planet? Sidney about to live his dream. You're right! Why would we want that for our son?"
"You know what I mean Trina."
"Yes I do, but Sidney has a far better start than we did."
"I just want his life to be perfect. I don't want him to go through what we had to go through."
"His life will never be perfect Troy, no matter what we do. But we will be there to guide him through, just like we always have been...if he ever forgives you."
"I'm not sure that will happen anytime soon."
"Of course it will, but you know what you have to do to help it happen...right?"

***********************************

"Hello?"
"Miss Jones?"
"Yes."
"It's Troy Crosby. I was wondering if I could speak to you for a moment?"
"I uh...I'm just on my way to work," (I lied) "I really don't have time right now. Besides, I don't think that we have anything to say to each other."
"Well, maybe you could just listen to what I have to say then."
"I did that once already Mr. Crosby and frankly it didn't work out so well for me. If this is about staying away from Sidney, you don't have to worry. I've kept my end of the deal."
"It's not about that. I'd like to apologize. Can we meet for a coffee or something? Please? I would really appreciate the opportunity to clear things up."
"I don't think that's necessary. It's done and over with."
"Well, that's where you're wrong. I know that Sidney knows about our 'conversation'. I think for all our sakes, we need to clear the air."
"Ummm..."
"Please Bekah?"
"I can meet you around 7, is that okay?"
"That's fine. The restaurant across from the arena okay for you?"
"That's fine. I'll see you at 7."

*********************************

"Hello?"
"Hey beautiful, we just got to the hotel. How's your day going?"
"Uhh, it's going. How was your flight?"
"Good. What are you up to tonight? The boys are coming home aren't they?"
"Well, Lily was going to bring them home and have dinner with us, but there's been a change of plans."
"Oh? How come?"
"I have a date."
"Excuse me? A what?"
"A date. You know, that thing two people do when they like each other? They go out, maybe have a meal, some good conversation..."
"I know what a date is," Sid replied tersely. "With who?"
"Are you jealous Crosby?"
"No. With who?"
"This rather attractive older gentleman. I was originally interested in his son, but when I told him I loved him and he skipped town, I decided to go for the next best thing."
Sidney was silent for a moment.
"Are you talking about my... dad?"
"Yep. I assume you talked to him before you left?"
"Talk? Kind of. We fought. I'm confused. Explain this to me. What the hell happened?"
"He called me and asked to meet with me so he could apologize and clear things up between us."
"Really? He must have told my mom what was going on."
"Why do you say that?"
"Because he would never, ever apologize on his own; especially if he thought he was right."
"Maybe he realizes that he wasn't."
"Clearly you don't know my father! So you're actually going to meet with him?"
"Yep, at 7. I'm actually kind of interested in what he has to say."
"Me too! Just be careful okay."
"Sid, you're acting like I'm going to meet a complete stranger in a dark alley or something. It's your father!"
"I know! And I think we know what he's capable of. Just stand your ground. If you feel like you need to tell him about us, I'm behind you 100%. He can't do anything to us now."
"Let's just see how it goes. I should go get ready."
"Yeah, we're going to go grab some dinner."
"Behave yourself Crosby."
"Of course! Call me and tell me what happens."
"You know I will. I'll talk to you later."
"Hey Beks?"
"Yeah?"
"I love you."
"I love you too Sidney. Miss me lots."
"Already done!"

Not an update...yet!

I just wanted to let everyone know I appreciate you loyal readers out there and the wonderful comments you've been leaving. I regret that my updates have been few and far between lately but ever since the new school year started, I've been swamped with extra work. I have some extremely, shall we say... challenging children this year and have been spending most of my spare time trying to come up with activities, lesson plans and strategies to cope with them! Please don't give up on me, if you like this story. More is coming...I promise! I hope to update this weekend. Hope everyone has a happy and safe Halloween! ~ B

Sid's POV - Sidney vs. Troy

My phone rang again as I was pulling away from Bekah's. 'It's now or never,' I thought to myself before flipping open the phone.
"Hi Dad."
"Where the fuck have you been?"
"There's really no need to curse at me dad."
"I've been trying to get in touch with you since last night. Where do you get off hanging up on me? I am your father and that was completely disrespectful. I will not tolerate disrespect Sidney."
"I am aware of your expectations dad. You were being unreasonable," I said in the calmest voice I could manage. "I'm on my way home. We'll talk when I get there."
I hung up the phone and tried to push the thought of the conversation I was going to have with my dad out of my mind. All I really wanted to think about was Bekah and how everything was going to be now that our feelings were out in the open. I had imagined what it would be like to hear those three words come out of her mouth a thousand times, but nothing compared to the reality. I could have never imagined how I would feel when she said I love you. It felt like fireworks were going off inside me, I was completely exhilarated! She has been fighting it for so long; I'm pretty sure she was as surprised as I was when she said it.
I drove back to Mario's lost in my own euphoria. I honestly don't know how I made it back, I remember nothing about the short trip.
My euphoria was certainly plunged into darkness when I pulled in the driveway at home. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to collect my thoughts before going inside. Taylor was the first one to greet me when I entered the house.
"Sidneeeeeeeeeeey!" she squealed running towards me full tilt. I scooped her up in a bear hug and swung her around in a circle.
"Where did you go last night? You promised to be my date for the party. I was supposed to get the first kiss at midnight. Mom and dad let me stay up and everything," she said with the disappointment evident in her voice.
"Sorry Tay," I said giving her a big squeeze. "I wasn't in the mood for a party last night last night. I would have been horrible company. I needed to be by myself for a while."
"Girl problems huh?"
"Why would you say that?"
"Cause there are only two things that ever make you sad. You had a good game yesterday, so it has to be a girl."
"You're pretty smart, you know that?"
"I know. So who is it? Is it Alex's mom?"
"Why would you...
"Hello? Smart remember. I know that you like her."
"Yes I do."
"Does she like you back?"
"I'm not sure."
"I think she does."
"Oh really, and why would you think that?"
"Alex told me."
"He did did he? When did that happen?"
"After Christmas when I told him we were coming to Pittsburgh to visit you."
"How did you talk to him?"
"Duh! On MSN! I talk to him like all the time. So why were you sad, did you have a fight?"
"I think this conversation is over! I'm not going to talk about this with my little sister."
"Hey! I'm not a baby ya know!"
"Oh I'm aware of that! I have to pack for the road trip. I'll see you before I leave."
"Fine," she said stomping out of the room.

********************************

I was just about done packing when there was a knock at my door.
"Come in," I hollered.
"I'm here. Let's talk," he said very matter of factly sitting in a chair across from me.
"Okay," I replied while trying to compose myself. "Dad; I can't even tell you how furious I am at you right now."
"Furious? For what? Trying to find out where you took off to in the middle of a party? Sue me, I'm your father!"
"Please don't pretend like you don't know what I'm talking about."
"Well Sidney, I'm afraid I don't."
"I know what you did Dad. You can't deny it."
"Deny what? I don't have the foggiest idea what you're talking about."
"How could you do it Dad?"
"Oh for Christ sake Sidney..."
"Did you really think you could intimidate her into staying away from me?"
All the colour drained from his face.
"I don't know what she told you, but girls like that are trouble Sidney. They'll say anything to get what they want."
"STOP IT!" I shouted unable to contain my anger anymore.
"You don't even know her! If you did, you sure wouldn't be saying such ugly things about her."
"I know girls like her. Troubled pasts, living in anything but ideal circumstances, and along you come and bingo! That's her ticket! She latches on to you and rides the wave, getting herself famous along the way no doubt, all the while reaping the benefits of your money. And she's probably worse than most girls, with two kids to support."
"WOW!" I said shaking my head in disbelief. "When did you become so...so jaded towards people?"
"It's not jaded, it's reality. You are so naive when it comes to real life matters Sidney. You only want to see the good in people and in this business, that can be suicide. I'm your father and it's my job to protect you."
"I've been away from home since I was 15. Yes, I have had the last three years mapped out for me and have had great people around to 'protect' me, but I am not as naive as you think I am. One of the first things you taught me is to be a good judge of character because that was the only way I'd know if I was surrounding myself with good people. It's a skill I pride myself on. Bekah is nothing like the image you have of her. Far from it actually. She the type of girl I need to be with; beautiful, humble, generous, loyal, gracious, successful in her career, independent to a fault, committed to helping other people, and deeply committed to her family. But because of you, I will not have that opportunity."
"Sidney, she may be all those things, but if she were truly a quality girl, she wouldn't have been so easily swayed by me."
"You threatened her! You scared her half to death, telling her my career would tank if I was with her! She put me before herself! She gave up a chance at being happy for me, so nothing would happen to me or my precious career!" I yelled. "God, you are fucking unbelievable! You couldn't control me so you went after her! I don't know what's more despicable; using such harsh and ugly words to intimidate an innocent girl or the fact that you would think it was okay to do it at all!"
"Sidney I will not tolerate this kind of disrespect from my own son!" he said raising his voice to me for the first time in a long time.
"What about the disrespect you showed Bekah?" I yelled back. "You have to give respect to get it! You are my father and I love you, but I lost all respect that I had for you. I cannot forgive what you did Dad; not only to Bekah, but to me too. You had no right to interfere in our lives the way you did. Whether you like it or not, I am an adult and am capable of making my own decisions without your input and that includes who I date. If you can't respect my personal life, then you will have no place in it. We'll maintain a business relationship and that's it."
"That's absurd! You're overreacting because you're still angry. Give it a few days. Once we spend this time together on the road trip, it'll all be forgotten."
"The girl I love is no longer part of my life because of you; it will not be forgotten in a few days. I don't want you on this road trip with me. I don't want to look at you or even talk to you right now. This road trip will give me time to hopefully cool down some; then maybe I'll at least be able to tolerate being in the same room with you."
Just then there was a knock at the door and my mom peeked her head in.
"There's my two boys. Are you both ready to go to the airport?"
I gave her a hug and kiss and told her I loved her. I picked up my bag and said, "Dad's not coming with me on the trip."
"Not going? Why?"
"I'll let him explain it to you. I call you when we get to Toronto."

Chapter 62

I woke up feeling a little groggy the next morning and looked at the clock on my nightstand. 8:30. I haven't slept until 8:30 in I don't know how long! I felt the warmth of breath on my neck and his arm draped gently over my waist. I closed my eyes and smiled as the memories from the night before danced in my mind. Had it really happened? Did Sidney Crosby really tell me he loved me? Even more shocking, did I really finally tell him that I loved him too? The kiss on my neck and the tight squeeze that followed was my answer.

"Good morning beautiful," he whispered in my ear before rolling over on to his back and stretching his arms above his head. I took this as an invitation.
"Morning," I replied rolling over and settling into his chest so his arm would naturally fall around my shoulder.
"You're sneaky Jones," he said planting a kiss on my forehead.
"That's what you like about me," I said playfully.
"No, that's one of the things I love about you!"
"Love? Who said anything about love?" I asked trying to antagonize him.
"I did. And as I recall...you did."
"Hmmm? I don't have that recollection!"
"Oh no you don't!," he said pulling me close against him. He lifted my chin so I was looking in his eyes. "You said it! It's out there and you can't take it back!"
"Objection! Here say. Do you have proof of this alleged conversation Mr. Crosby?"
"All the proof I need is right here," he said before planting a passionate kiss on my lips.
We both giggled and settled back into position.
"I could stay like this all day," he crooned running his fingers through my hair.
"Then why don't we? We can watch movies and just stay in bed all day!"
"As tempting as it sounds, I can't. We leave for Toronto this afternoon."
"Back to the business of being Sidney Crosby right?" I said trying to hide my disappointment.
"It's not so bad, I'll be back in a week."
"A WEEK! Boy, this gives new meaning to the phrase 'love em and leave em. Should I take offence that I tell you I love you then you skip town for a week?"
"Ah, there's the sarcasm I've missed so much! Believe me, I would like nothing more than to stay here with you, this is a terrible time for a road trip. The most amazing girl told me she loved me and now I have to leave, but to use my own cliche phrase: absence makes the heart grow fonder right?"
"Good one!" I said sitting up and crossing my legs. "I don't know?...it did only take me seven years to fall in love again...now that I have it perfected, who knows what I'll be capable of in seven days! I could easily fall in love a couple more times!"
"OH, I don't think so," he said wrapping me in a bear hug from behind, flipping me over onto my back, straddling me and pinning me down so I couldn't move and tickling me until I couldn't breathe.
"Okay, okay, okay," I said gasping for air. "I give up!"
"Ah submission, my favourite quality in a woman!"
"Sick!" I said shaking my head, "just sick! I'm going to make breakfast, are you hungry?" I asked finally climbing off my bed.
He just looked at me like I had three heads. "That's a ridiculous question! Whatcha making?"
"I'm not sure, but my guess is it's not just going to be a bowl of cereal and some toast!"
He grinned at me as he began putting on the clothes I had striped off of him the night before.

******************************************

When we were finished eating, we sat at the counter sipping our coffee.
"I can't believe you can eat like that and look as good as you do," I said in disbelief.
"It takes alot of calories to keep us hockey players going, and I am a growing boy!"
"Well I hope you plan on continuing to eat at the Lemieux's because I can't afford how much my grocery bill would grow if I had to feed you! I'd have to work double shifts every day!"
"We definitely don't want that," he said winking at me.
We were silent for what seemed like forever.
"Can we be serious for a minute Beks?"
"I don't know if I like the sound of that," I replied starting to feel nervous.
"It's not bad, I just think that we need to talk about what happened last night."
I inhaled deeply before telling him I agreed.
"Everything changed for us last night when we admitted our feelings for each other. I wish we could shout it from the roof tops, but we need to face reality."
"Reality being your father."
"He's only part of it. We have a big hurdle to jump with him and it's going to take time. I'm sure once he sees that you make me happy and you're not going anywhere, he'll come around."
"You are much more optimistic than I am Sid. You didn't hear the desperation in his voice or see the I almost hate to say it, but evil look in his eyes that night. He is hell bent on keeping me away from you."
"You let me worry about my dad. I'm not sure how yet, but I will handle him. I'm more worried about you."
"Me? Why?"
"Part of being with me is dealing with the constant circus that follows me around. It's not pleasant and I hate it sometimes but it's part of my job. I knew what I was in for when I signed up for this life. But it's not something that you asked for, and it's definitely not something that I want the boys to have to deal with right away."
I smiled thoughtfully at him. I loved the fact that he always took the boys into consideration.
"I think we might be on the same page here," I said.
"Really?" he asked surprised.
"I think we should keep our relationship quiet for now, from everybody, including the boys. We need time to figure things out for ourselves because let's face it, this is not going to be a 'normal' relationship. I think we should go slow and build on the foundation we already have before making any big announcements or going public. It's going to take time for me to get used to the fact that I have to share you with the world, I'm definitely not ready to be the most hated person in the world for taking Sidney Crosby off the market!"
"Oh come on, not the world! Maybe just the most hated in Pittsburgh!"
"Not funny," I said trying to contain a smile. "Seriously though. It's been a long, bumpy road for me to get to the point I'm even ready to try a relationship, I am not ready for the 'Sidney circus' yet. I hope you understand why I need to take this slow and keep it secret for now, maybe for a while."
Sidney took my hand in his and gave it a kiss. "Of course I understand. I know how much you've struggled with the whole thought of us. I know you're a private person and that you don't want to be thrust into the spotlight. I have waited so long for this Bekah, I am not going to do anything to screw it up. It's all up to you, your time line. Whatever you're ready for, whenever you're ready for it. Besides, it'll be kinda hot having a 'secret' girlfriend," he said with a devilish grin.
"You had to ruin the moment didn't you?"
"I wouldn't be me if I didn't! I just have one question."
"What's that?"
"What are we going to tell the boys? It's not like they're not going to see me around alot."
"It doesn't have to be any different than it was. We were friends before, they were used to you hanging around, so nothing will change. Since we're going to take things slow, this shouldn't be a factor, but I want to be clear up front. I have one rule that is absolutely unbreakable."
"What's that?"
"No spending the night when they're here. That point is not negotiable."
'That's a relief,' he thought to himself.
"No problem. Now I just have one rule for you."
"I'm intrigued."
"You have to promise not to get mad when I tell interviewers I don't have a girlfriend or when there's stories about random girls I may be dating because it's bound to happen."
"Well it's a good thing that I'll know the truth then isn't it?" I said walking over to the stool he was sitting on and wrapping my arms around his neck.
"That's just another one of the things I love about you," he said wrapping his arms around my waist, "you're so calm and confident. Not a jealous bone in that amazing body of yours!"
"Don't give me too much credit yet, I haven't been tested. I'm sure if any of those, what do you call them...puck bunnies got too close, I'd get a little feisty!"
"Oooh, I like it when you get feisty," he snickered pulling me down to kiss his lips.
His phone rang and he looked at the display before returning it to his pocket.
"I have to go," he sighed. "I have to pack and get to the airport."
"Have a safe trip," I said walking him to the door.
"I will. I'll call you tonight when I get to Toronto okay?"
"Okay. Behave yourself and play hard."
"Always. I love you," he whispered wrapping me tightly in his arms and giving me one last kiss.
"I love you the most," I replied as he headed for his car.
He turned around and smiled at me. "You'll have to explain that one to me someday," he said before getting in the Range Rover and driving away.

Sid's POV

It took no time at all before she was asleep in my arms. My only thought was 'I am the luckiest guy in the world right now.' After months of turmoil and one hell of a roller coaster ride, we ended up exactly where I knew we were meant to be. She loves me, and I love her and we were both finally able to admit it, no thanks to my father. I still wasn't sure how I was going to handle him, but right now I wanted to banish all unpleasant thoughts from my mind. I didn't want anything to spoil this perfect night.
As if on cue, my phone vibrated on the nightstand. I carefully slid my arm out from underneath my sleeping beauty, praying I wouldn't wake her.
I opened my phone to see I had missed several messages from a variety of people all wondering where I was. The latest one was from my dad.
'Where the hell are you? What's going on?'
'I needed to be by myself. I'm fine. Don't worry.' I replied hoping that would pacify him for the night. I should have known better.
'Get home NOW.'
I could almost hear the anger behind his message.
'I'm fine. Be home in the morning,' I text before turning my phone off. He nearly ruined Bekah and I, I certainly wasn't going to let him ruin tonight.

I sat in the large arm chair by the window. I guess in our haste to get to bed, neither of us closed the blind and the moon was casting a soft glow that gently illuminated the room. I watched her sleep. The slight smile on her face made her delicate features finally look peaceful. What did I ever do to deserve this beautiful creature?
I thought back to the events that led us to this moment. By heart started beating faster and faster at the mere thought of her soft hands caressing my body, followed by those luscious lips. She had unleashed a fire in me I have never felt before. I had been completely freaked out at the prospect of where we were headed, and I sure didn't handle it well. God, I wanted her! But I couldn't. How was I supposed to tell her? I shuddered at the thought of what her reaction would be. She finally overcame her fear about my age, revealing that I've never been with anyone before would definitely renew her concerns. What the hell do I do? I can't put it off forever, she'll think something's wrong. Truth is after tonight's performance, I don't know how long I'll be able to hold out. Damn she turned me on, and that was one thing I couldn't hide!

She began to get restless and sleepily called out my name.
"Sidney?"
I slid in behind her, and held her close to me. "I'm right here baby."
"Are you okay?"
"I'm perfect. Everything's fine. Go back to sleep."
"Mmmm, okay," she said snuggling herself tightly against my body, causing my pulse to quicken once again. God, she smelled amazing!
I kissed her shoulder, then her neck and she let out the faintest moan. I tightened my grip around her waist and settled in for a long night.
"I love you," I whispered, not expecting any response.
"Love you the most," she said gently squeezing my hand before sleep overcame both our bodies.

Chapter 61

I turned the movie off in time to watch the ball drop with Dick Clark. Sid was nestled in the corner of the couch and I was snuggled in next to him, head on his chest and his strong, comforting arm around my shoulders caressing my upper arm ever so gently.
"5-4-3-2-1...Happy New Year!!" came bellowing out of the tv.
Sidney lifted my chin and looked into my eyes.
"Happy New Year Beks," he whispered kissing the tip of my nose.
"Happy New Year to you too Crosby," I said in return this time taking the initiative.

I sat up to face him, running both hands into the back of his hair, gripping those curls firmly and pulling him in towards my anxious lips. Slowly, softly, I kissed him. Upper lip, then the lower, letting my tongue tease each one playfully. Deep, raspy groans were escaping him as I moved slowly over to his jaw, to his ear, and down his neck settling in the sensitive area where his neck met his shoulder. A soft kiss and a flick of the tongue sent him over the edge. In one foul swoop he pulled me up on top of him, straddling his mammoth legs. Curious hands explored my body, first down my arms and back up, over my shoulders and slowly down my back. Up, down, in every direction, finally resting at my hips. Sid continued his exploration down my legs, over every inch he could possibly reach, but never, not once, crossing the line. Every movement sent electric currents through my body and I could feel his growing excitement beneath me. Moans of pleasure now escaped my lips as he became the aggressor, returning the soft kisses I had just bestowed upon him. I was screaming inside to have his lips on mine once again, and as if reading my mind, those bee-stung lips were in front of me, welcoming mine back.
Who knows how long this would have gone on for, if one of us didn't stop it.
"Sidney," I breathed heavily, pulling back and resting my forehead against his. "We should..."
"I know," he interrupted. "Stop, before it gets too out of hand."

HELLO!!! Not exactly where I was going with that thought, but okay.

"What now?" he asked
'Oh I don't know, you tell me Einstein!' was the first thought that came to mind.
"I'm not really sure. These last few days have been so mentally exhausting for me, I just want to head for bed."
'Really? That's what I come up with?'
"This night has been so perfect...I don't want it to end. I'm afraid if I leave, I'm going to wake up and this will all have been just a dream," he said gently stroking his thumb along my cheek.
"Then don't," I said taking his hand in mine.
"Don't? Don't what?"
"Don't go," I whispered in his ear before giving him another kiss. "Stay with me tonight."
The look of surprise and confusion on his handsome face was priceless!
"But...oh...but I...are you sure about this?" he asked nervously.
"Shhh," I breathed gently placing a single finger over his mouth. I took him by the hand and silently led him down the hall to my bedroom.

Once there, standing at the edge of my bed, the fear in his eyes and look of sheer terror on his face amused me. Gone was the strong, confident young man that had been so sure of himself. In his place, stood a terrified little boy afraid of getting caught taking a bite of the forbidden fruit.

I stood in front of him and started to unbutton my pyjama shirt. He fidgeted uncomfortably, but he dared not move. I let the shirt slide down my arms and fall to the floor, revealing the tank top I always wore underneath. The look of relief on his face almost made me giggle out loud.
I took a step towards him, looked into his eyes and began unbuttoning his shirt, slowly, working my way down one button at a time, never breaking our gaze. He swallowed hard when I reached the bottom and forcefully untucked the shirt tales from his perfectly fitted jeans. I slid my hands up his well toned abdomen and chest, leaving a trail of kisses along the way, across his broad shoulders, running my fingers under the material and sliding it down his arms, letting it join mine on the floor. Without my eyes leaving his, I reached for his belt buckle and undid it. Button... then zipper... then my cold hands guiding his pants down those legs as he gasped, until they too were on the floor. I took a step back to fully absorb the breathtaking sight that lay before me. What stood before me was the most perfect male specimen ever to grace a pair of black boxer briefs. Every line, every muscle perfectly defined, almost as if he had been chiseled out of stone, by an expert craftsman.

I pulled back the comforter and motioned for him to get in before moving around to my side of the bed. I climbed in beside him and before lying down, engaged him in one more passionate kiss.
He squirmed a little awkwardly before protesting once more.
"Beks, we have to..."
I gently pushed him down on his back and snuggled next to him in his arms. My head in that perfect spot right by his shoulder, taking in that amazing, masculine scent he released into the air, and my hand on his chest. I could hear and feel his heart beating a million miles a minute.
"Sleep," I smiled to myself.
"Huh?"
"Sleep. We have to sleep."